ABOUT THE CLIENT:

Our client is a well-established structural steel organization specializing in complex commercial, industrial, institutional, and infrastructure projects across Western Canada. They are seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Estimator to lead estimating operations, support business growth, and play a key role in securing high-value projects.

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior estimating professional who thrives in a fast-paced construction environment and brings strong leadership, technical expertise, and commercial acumen within the structural steel industry.

The Chief Estimator will oversee the full estimating function, from project evaluation and bid preparation through cost analysis and proposal submission. This individual will collaborate closely with senior leadership, project managers, engineers, fabricators, suppliers, and clients to ensure accurate, competitive, and profitable project estimates.

The successful candidate will be highly analytical, detail-oriented, and experienced in structural steel estimating, with the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously while helping drive operational excellence and continuous improvement within the estimating department.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Estimating & Cost Analysis

• Lead the preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates for structural steel projects.
• Analyze project drawings, specifications, contracts, and scope documents to determine labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and overhead costs.
• Develop detailed quantity takeoffs and material calculations from architectural and structural drawings.
• Prepare comprehensive bid packages, tender submissions, and proposal documentation.
• Review project risks and incorporate appropriate contingencies into estimates.
• Monitor market pricing trends, labor rates, fabrication costs, and material fluctuations.

Bid Management & Project Evaluation

• Evaluate bid opportunities and determine project feasibility, competitiveness, and profitability.
• Coordinate and solicit pricing from subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors.
• Analyze quotations and ensure alignment with project requirements and timelines.
• Participate in bid reviews, strategy meetings, and final tender closings.
• Assist with value engineering initiatives by identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality, safety, or project intent.

Project Coordination & Support

• Work closely with project managers, engineers, detailers, and operations teams to ensure seamless project handoffs.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and pre-construction planning activities.
• Assist with scheduling input based on production capacity, labor availability, and project timelines.
• Review and estimate change orders, scope modifications, and extra work throughout project execution.
• Maintain organized documentation of estimates, revisions, assumptions, clarifications, and correspondence.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and guidance to estimating team members.
• Collaborate with senior management on strategic planning, process improvements, and operational efficiencies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
• Participate in client meetings to clarify project scope, expectations, and technical requirements.
• Ensure all estimating activities comply with company standards, safety regulations, and applicable building codes.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Extensive estimating experience within the structural steel industry.
• Strong understanding of structural steel fabrication, erection, and construction processes.
• Proven ability to manage large and complex bids in commercial, industrial, or infrastructure environments.
• Strong knowledge of construction drawings, specifications, contracts, and tendering procedures.
• Experience with quantity takeoffs, budgeting, and cost forecasting.
• Proficiency with estimating software, Excel, and related construction management tools.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and negotiation abilities.
• Leadership experience mentoring or managing estimating teams is considered a strong asset.
• Experience working with structural steel fabricators or steel construction contractors.
• Familiarity with CISC standards, construction codes, and industry best practices.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong commercial awareness with a focus on profitability and operational efficiency.

COMPENSATION:

• $140,000-150,000 annul base salary (negotiable).
• Discretionary bonus based on company’s performance.
• RRSP matching program.
• Extended health benefits.
• Paid time off.
• Laptop, cellphone bill coverage, mileage.