Lead Estimator

Lead Estimator – Responsibilities

• Review contract documents to prepare cost estimate of projects.
• Set up new cost estimates in bidding software.
• Lead a team through the completion of a bid process under pressure, mentor and train junior estimators.
• Prepare reports and lead executive bid review meetings.
• Review schedule for accuracy and determine production rates.
• Contact subcontractors and vendors for specific divisions to get external pricing.
• Negotiate subcontractors and vendor pricing.
• Resolve cost discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information.
• Assemble accurate, timely and well organized estimates, including hard-bid, construction management and design-build.
• Organize sub-contractor quotes when the bid is successful, re‑writing binders and assisting the buy‑out process.
• Monitor the success of a project, noting potential challenges and building relationships with sub‑trades for future opportunities.
• Distribute sub‑trade quotes to personnel, flagging areas of concern and coordinating with management to accommodate risk within the bid price.
• Support the project handover process to the Project Delivery / Operation teams. If requested, assist with the project material procurements.
• Able to work independently and as a team member.
• Maintain databases, including labour rates, material pricing and project costs, for future reference.
• Maintains quality service by following organization standards.
• Maintains continuity among corporate, division and local work teams by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities and continuing bid needs.
• Determine bidding standards to improve estimating bid quality and reduce estimating time.

• Degree or Diploma in Engineering or Construction.
• 10+ years of civil construction experience with a focus on transportation infrastructure (roads, bridges, rail).
• 5+ years of estimating experience.
• Project Management and Field Experience is an asset.
• Good communication and documentation skills.
• Develop and manage budgets.
• Familiarity with B2W Software would be considered an asset.
• Well‑developed interpersonal customer service and relationship‑building skills.
• Good oral and written English‑language skills.
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Self‑motivated, energetic, and reliable with a positive disposition.
• Ability to work under pressure and to prioritize work effectively.
• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

The salary range for this job is $110,000 - $120,000.

Ellis Don is proud to provide this unique career opportunity that provides continuous learning, opportunity for growth, and a competitive compensation package within an environment that is committed to inclusion and respects diversity.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We welcome people of any age, culture, subculture, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnicity, race, size, mental or physical status, veteran status, religion, language, political opinion, working‑style preference, family status, education, and socio‑economic status. The Ellis Don core values of Integrity and Mutual Respect welcomes everyone, at work and in the community, and our value of Mutual Accountability means that we all have a role to play.

As an Ellis Don employee, this will ultimately be your commitment to Inclusive Diversity.

Accommodation for Applicants with disabilities will be made during the recruitment process when requested.

We are committed to providing a positive candidate experience and ensuring timely updates are provided to all candidates. If you haven’t already, be sure to create a profile on our Careers page to remain up to date on the status of your application and learn about new career opportunities as they arise.

Ellis Don uses AI tools to assist in screening and assessing applicants for this position.