Preconstruction Project Manager / Estimator

Durwest Construction Management Inc.; Victoria; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A local construction management firm in Victoria, BC is looking for a Preconstruction Project Manager/Estimator. The role involves leading the tender process, improving estimating accuracy, and building client relationships. Ideal candidates will have 3–5 years of relevant experience, strong communication skills, and proficiency with estimating software. Competitive salary and benefits offered, with a commitment to fostering a fun, collaborative work environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Extended health benefits

RRSP matching

Bonus opportunities

Work-life balance

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in Project Management, Estimation, or Preconstruction.
• Proven experience preparing hard-bid estimates.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural and engineering drawings.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full-cycle tender process and improve estimating programs.
• Coordinate with consultants, clients, and internal teams.
• Oversee preconstruction schedules and deliverables.
• Build relationships within the Preconstruction team and with trade partners.

Skills

Project Management

Estimation

Communication

Team Collaboration

Time Management

Attention to Detail

Education

Degree or diploma in Construction Management

Tools

OST

Procore

Bluebeam

Job description

Company Overview

Durwest has been a trusted leader in Construction and Project Management for over 40 years, with a strong presence on Vancouver Island, managing projects in excess of $90 million. We are in an exciting period of growth and transformation at Durwest; we have new leadership, a revitalized brand, and a strong commitment to building lasting relationships and high-performing teams.

We are actively seeking professionals who take ownership, embrace growth, and build lasting relationships; individuals ready to help us shape the next chapter of Durwest.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Preconstruction Project Manager/Estimator who brings strong preconstruction and project management expertise, coupled with the ability to support and strengthen our estimating program. This individual will take ownership of running the full-cycle tender process in collaboration with our Preconstruction Project Coordinator, with a focus on scope leveling, accuracy, and efficiency. A key part of this role is driving continuous improvement in our estimating processes while building strong relationships with clients, consultants, and trade partners to set projects up for success.

What You\'ll Be Doing

Preconstruction & Estimating Leadership

• Lead the full-cycle tender process, including scope reviews, leveling, take-offs, pricing strategies, and bid submissions.
• Run and continuously improve Durwest’s estimating program, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and accuracy in all estimates.
• Perform detailed quantity take-offs and maintain current cost data, leveraging relationships with trades and suppliers for competitive pricing.
• Collaborate with consultants and clients to clarify scope, identify risks, and propose value engineering opportunities.

Project Management in Preconstruction

• Take over from Precon Manager as the primary point of contact during preconstruction, coordinating with consultants, clients, and internal teams to align project goals.
• Oversee preconstruction schedules, deliverables, and documentation to ensure a smooth handoff into construction.
• Provide constructability insights and cost planning support (Class D through Class A estimates) to guide design and decision-making.
• Mentor and coordinate with the Preconstruction Project Coordinator to ensure seamless execution of tender submissions and preconstruction deliverables.
• Lead the process of notice of awards and contract issuance in collaboration with the operations team.

Continuous Improvement & Relationships

• Build and nurture strong relationships within the Preconstruction team, along with trade partners, consultants, and clients, ensuring early engagement and collaboration.
• Identify opportunities to refine and improve estimating and preconstruction workflows, supporting Durwest’s culture of accountability and growth

What We\'re Looking For

• 3–5 years of experience in Project Management, Estimation, Preconstruction, or as a Superintendent, preferably on a range of ICI and/or multi-family residential projects.
• Proven experience preparing hard-bid estimates and managing the full tendering process.
• Proficiency with estimating and take-off software (OST, Procore, Bluebeam or similar).
• Solid understanding of CCDC contracts, public procurement requirements, and bid submission protocols.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and time management skills, with the ability to thrive under deadlines.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical drawings with attention to detail.
• Strong knowledge of institutional building systems, assemblies, and the local trade market.
• A team player who takes ownership, enjoys building relationships, and contributes to a fun, collaborative work environment.

Not required, but considered an asset:

• Degree or diploma in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related discipline.

Why Join Durwest

• Trusted Reputation: Join a well-established, locally rooted team with 40+ years of experience delivering projects across Vancouver Island.
• Relationship-Driven Culture: Be part of a team that values trust, collaboration, and long-term partnerships, not only with clients, consultants, and trade partners, but also within our own Durwest family.
• Opportunities to Grow: Be part of an exciting phase of transformation and growth, with opportunities to take ownership, expand your skills, and shape your career.
• Competitive Rewards: Receive a competitive salary, extended health benefits, RRSP matching, bonus opportunities, and other perks.
• Lifestyle & Location: Enjoy work-life balance in beautiful Victoria, BC, supported by a stable pipeline of local projects.
• High-Performing Team: Collaborate with professionals who value accuracy, professionalism, accountability, and fun in a supportive team environment.

PLEASE APPLY THROUGH OUR LINK: https://durwest.bamboohr.com/careers/31

We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

To help us identify the best fit, please ensure your resume highlights your most relevant qualifications and complete the three short pre-screening questions. Your time and attention here will strengthen your application and increase your chances of moving forward.

We understand that job applications take time, and we sincerely appreciate your effort and interest in building your career with Durwest.