Senior Estimator

Colas Western Canada Inc.; Calgary; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Standard General Calgary is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to lead our estimating function and shape Alberta's major infrastructure projects. This role goes beyond traditional estimates, influencing strategy, profitability, and mentorship for junior estimators in a dynamic team.

You will collaborate with operations, projects, and procurement to develop competitive bids, manage risk, and drive value engineering while ensuring accuracy and timely submissions for ambitious construction

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of estimating experience.
• Experience with Heavy Bid, Heavy Job and HCSS is an asset.
• Strong analytical and mathematical cost calculation skills.
• Proven leadership and mentoring abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of accurate and detailed cost estimates for construction projects.
• Analyze project specifications, drawings, and other relevant documents to understand project requirements.
• Identify risks and provide value engineering opportunities to optimize budgets.
• Collaborate with operations, projects, and procurement teams to ensure alignment.
• Present bids to management and oversee turnover and post‑award reviews.

Skills

Estimating expertise

Team leadership

Cost analysis

Forecasting

Negotiation

Education

Civil Engineering degree

Construction Management diploma

Engineering degree

Tools

HCSS Precon

Estimating software

Job description

9660 Enterprise Way SE Calgary, AB T3S 0A1

Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]

Standard General Calgary is a growing, dynamic contractor in land development and road construction in the greater Calgary area. Through our affiliation with the Colas Group of Companies, we are part of an organization that is a world leader in road construction. You’ll be able to take advantage of professional development and growth opportunities while working on exciting, leading‑edge projects. Standard General is dedicated to making a lasting impression through our work, our people and our relationships.

Job Summary

Standard General Calgary is looking for an experienced Senior Estimator to lead our estimating function and play a key role in shaping some of Alberta's most impactful infrastructure and construction projects. This is more than preparing estimates. It's about influencing strategy, driving profitability, mentoring the next generation of estimators, and helping secure the projects that keep our communities moving.

Key Responsibilities

Estimate Preparation

• Lead the preparation of accurate and detailed cost estimates for construction projects.
• Analyze project specifications, drawings, and other relevant documents to understand project requirements.
• Determine contingency, escalation, and risk pricing based on project specific conditions.
• Assist in downloading estimate files to the shared drive.
• Participate in providing information for RFPs.
• Conduct quantity takeoffs and material cost assessments.
• Utilize Heavy Bid and tools to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Analyze and evaluate project costs (i.e. materials, labor, equipment, and overhead expenses).
• Identify key construction, schedule, utility, geotechnical, environmental, and procurement risks.
• Provide recommendations to optimize project budgets while maintaining quality standards.
• Identify potential cost‑saving opportunities and value engineering options.

Team Leadership and Collaboration

• Foster a collaborative environment to encourage teamwork and effective communication.
• Mentor junior estimators on the team including conducting periodic reviews of estimates to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with project requirements.
• Coordinate estimating activities, assign tasks, and ensure deadlines are met.
• Coordinate with Contract Administrator on updating the estimate list in a timely manner.
• Participate in bid review and executive approval meetings.
• Collaborate with the Operations and Projects team to assess the feasibility and impact of the proposed bidding assumptions and any cost‑saving measures.

Main Responsibilities

Bid Management

• Use HCSS Precon and other internal systems for tracking and monitoring market conditions, trends, and stay informed of new developments and upcoming projects in the market.
• Maintain and improve estimating databases, production rates, and historical cost records.
• Review and interpret bidding documents, including contracts, specifications, and drawings.
• Prepare bid packages, ensuring all required documents are included.
• Collaborate with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain competitive pricing and develop strong working relationships.
• Present bids to management for approval and submit completed bids on time.
• Conduct post‑award estimate turnover meetings and post‑project estimate reviews to continually improve pricing accuracy, productivity assumptions, and risk assessments.

Relationship Management

• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and other key industry stakeholders.
• Attend pre‑bid meetings, site visits, and industry events to enhance networking opportunities.
• Collaborate with project managers and construction superintendents and other stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition from estimating to project execution.

Compliance

• Ensure a solid understanding of, and comply with, the principles of the company’s Code of Ethics
• Promote and actively support SGC’s Goal Zero safety culture and commitment to incident free operations including reporting near miss, good catches as well as incidents or quality issues.

Qualifications

Education, Training, Diplomas and Certifications

• Degree or diploma in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Engineering, or related field.

Work Experience

• Minimum 10 years of estimating experience.
• Experience with Heavy Bid, Heavy Job and HCSS are an asset.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry practices.
• Demonstrated knowledge of public and private‑sector tendering requirements and competitive bidding practices.
• Proficiency in using construction estimating software and tools.
• Excellent analytical and mathematical skills for accurate cost calculations.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to work with complex documents.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and the capacity to mentor and guide a team.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Professional demeanor and customer‑oriented approach.

Working Conditions

• Travel and Overtime as required.
• Compliance with the Company’s drug and alcohol policy, including testing requirements.
• Compliance with all Company policies.

Standard General Calgary offers exciting growth opportunities, excellent wages and benefits, and the opportunity to become part of a strong team and leader in the construction industry.