Senior Mechanical Estimator - Canem

Bird Construction; Red Deer; On-site; CAD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Bird Construction, through its Canem Systems subsidiary, is seeking a Senior Mechanical Estimator to deliver detailed estimates for a broad range of projects across Canada. The role emphasizes client and supplier relationships, cost effectiveness, and accurate tender preparation.

Ideal candidates bring 10+ years of mechanical estimating and construction experience, an engineering-based credential, and familiarity with AutoCAD/REVIT.

Qualifications

• 10+ years’ experience as a Mechanical Estimator.
• 10+ years’ hands-on experience with Mechanical construction projects.
• Undergraduate degree or college diploma in Engineering or Construction Management, or equivalent program.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed mechanical estimates for commercial, institutional, industrial, transportation, and major infrastructure projects.
• Build relationships with clients, suppliers and staff and support marketing of services.
• Review tender documents and prepare quotations and closing strategies.

Skills

Estimating

Mechanical construction

Leadership

Communication

Education

Engineering degree / Diploma

PQ S/CET or P. Eng designation

Tools

AutoCAD

REVIT

Autobid

Accubid

Job description

As a wholly owned subsidiary of Bird, Canem Systems has been energizing Canada for over 60 years with cutting edge systems, practices and collaborative project management. With several office locations across Canada, Canem Systems is currently looking for a Sr Mechanical Estimator to join its growing team.

The Senior Mechanical Estimator - Canem is responsible for the effective preparation of detailed estimates for commercial, institutional, industrial, transportation, and other major infrastructure projects. This includes responsibility for building effective relationships with clients, suppliers and staff and contributing to marketing the company and its services.

This role can be located in any of our branches across Canada and reports directly to the Estimating Manager.

What You Will Be Working On

• Establishing and maintaining effective relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, engineers and contractors in the industry; advising clients about new and effective products and services; and actively seeking out new opportunities, projects and clients and estimating and obtaining new projects.
• Preparing mechanical budgets based on preliminary sketches, specifications, and other related information; preparing accurate cost estimates of resources required for tendered projects; contacting and receiving quotations from suppliers and trades; and preparing spreadsheets with supplier information and quotes.
• Coordinating and preparing for pre-tender site tours; participating in project site visits as requested; analyzing possible cost savings for projects as requested by project managers.
• Setting up data for estimates in computer programs; reviewing and confirming estimate information prior to tender closing, including drawings and supplier bill of materials; analyzing disadvantages and strengths of estimates prior to submission; and prepare and evaluating closing strategies.
• Analyzing tender documents and contractual obligations; preparing and delivering quotation letters to client prior to closing time with relevant management approvals; obtaining feedback and results from client with regards to quotations; contributing to pre-plan meetings.
• Maintaining and updating databases for estimating, change order and service in relevant computer programs, maintaining and updating historical estimate database.
• Providing training and support to new and existing staff on estimating practices, change order procedures, and related software.
• Providing leadership and positive motivation for project staff and company partners by acting as a responsible and goal-oriented team player and leading by example in achieving excellence and being accountable for results and outcomes.
• Mentoring and developing estimators to strengthen their skills, knowledge, and experience and support their progression toward a Senior Estimator role.
• Creating and maintaining benchmark estimate values
• Managing project budgets and updating these as required by the project teams.

What We Are Looking For

• 10+ years’ experience as a Mechanical Estimator.
• 10+ years’ hands-on experience with Mechanical construction projects. Experience in Production or Field Operations would be considered an asset.
• Previous experience as a Senior Estimator; informal or formal leadership experience is considered a strong asset.
• Undergraduate degree or college diploma in Engineering, Construction Management, or other equivalent construction program or certification in one of the mechanical trades.
• Eligible for or have attained PQS, CET or P. Eng designation or have obtained a mechanical trade designation.
• Excellent engineering and technical knowledge of mechanical construction.
• Excellent knowledge of industry products, practices and standards.
• Experience with AUTO CAD / REVIT software is an asset.
• Experience with Autobid or Accubid estimating software is an asset.
• Current knowledge of mechanical, HVAC or plumbing, building and municipal codes and regulations.
• Knowledge of engineering software and engineering skills an asset.
• Ability to learn quickly, be flexible and adaptable.
• Strong organizational abilities and demonstrated attention to detail.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong time management skills, specifically the ability to multi-task and prioritize.
• Able to work independently and in team.

The greatest achievements in history are borne from the greatness within people – where human potential meets vision, and passion fuels evolution. Unlocking this potential is the most important thing we do at Bird. As a leader in Canadian construction for over 100 years, the impact of our team is etched deeply within the core of our legacy. Beyond Bird, this impact is felt in the fundamental aspects of our everyday lives. From the critical infrastructure we depend on, to the energy and resources that keep us moving – we are powering our communities and shaping Canada’s skylines coast-to-coast-to-coast. Entrenched in the foundation of a culture built more than a century ago is an enduring quest to reimagine what is possible. Our impact is greater than ever, and we are looking for those who seek to redefine their story.

What We Believe In

We Put Safety First

A healthy and safe work environment is non-negotiable. We build a culture of operational and psychological safety through engagement, learning and leadership.

We Lead With Honesty

We speak and act with integrity, clarity and care so people can trust our word and our work. Being honest means we can deliver the best outcomes and consistent results.

We Are Stronger Together

Success is a team effort. Our inclusive workplace enables our combined expertise, humility and creativity to unlock our greater potential.

We Are Driven To Do Great Work

We built our name on quality. We have a passion for excellence in our work and relationships that honours our businesses and our industry.

We Create Opportunity

Rooted in a solid foundation, we adapt and grow to face the future. We are committed to elevating each other to chart the best path forward in an evolving world.

At Bird, we value Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) and believe it is essential to our success. We will continue to listen, learn, and take action in our commitment to building progress in our organization, and the industry as a whole. Cultivating an environment where all employees feel included, seen, and have a sense of belonging is core to Bird’s culture. We commit to proactively employing a workforce that reflects the communities in which we work, fostering an environment of continuous learning, and never compromising on our values.