Chief Estimator

Transforming visions into buildings

About Buttcon
Buttcon is proud to be a 100% employee-owned COR certified, leading Canadian General Contractor with projects from coast to coast. As a leader in the construction industry, we deliver quality services in ICI and multi-unit residential construction with a focus on off-site construction and sustainability. We utilize innovative technologies that ensure our projects are completed above expectations. As a company, we are committed to working safely and provide exceptional value in our progressive practices and processes. We believe that active listening, the power of a team, building for the long-term, taking action, and sharing success are the keys to a successful future.

We care about the work we do, the people we work with and making a difference through our work. We strive to provide opportunities for growth and development that empower our people. Our values of Safety, Accountability, Honesty and Integrity, Quality, Entrepreneurial Spirit, and being People-focused, are rooted in our culture and are essential in what we do. Our employees contribute to Buttcon’s success because of their knowledge and dedication to their passion.

If you share our passion for construction, we would like you to be part of our team.

Position Description:

Be a part of one of Canada’s top construction companies, with successful growth each year. Our project experience is diverse and has established Buttcon as the construction partner of choice for our clients. To be a part of the Buttcon Team means you will have the opportunity to be innovative, entrepreneurial and instill safety and quality into everything you do. Buttcon is looking for individuals that have that entrepreneurial spirit, who are accountable, take responsibility and care about our company, our team, and our clients. Together we will help you by providing a challenging career in the construction industry.

We are currently looking for a highly skilled, caring, and safety focused individual for our team.

Reporting to the President of Buttcon East, the Chief Estimator is responsible to lead the Estimating Team through the estimating process and tender closings. The Chief Estimator plays a crucial role in the success of construction projects by providing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates, ensuring profitability, and supporting the business development efforts of the company. This position requires strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of construction processes and industry trends.

Here’s What You’ll be Responsible for:

1. Cost Estimating:
   • Lead the estimating team in preparing detailed and accurate cost estimates for construction projects, including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and other associated costs.
   • Analyze project plans, specifications, and other relevant documents to identify project requirements and scope. Clarify document discrepancies.
   • Utilize historical cost data and industry benchmarks to inform the estimation process and ensure competitiveness. Confirm if there is a site visit and arrange attendance.
2. Leadership and Team Management:
   • Supervise and mentor the estimating team, providing guidance and support in their daily activities and professional development.
   • Conduct performance evaluations and identify training needs to enhance the skills and knowledge of the team members.
   • Foster a collaborative and positive work environment to promote efficiency and productivity.
3. Bid Preparation and Submission:
   • Oversee the preparation of bid proposals and ensure they are submitted within the specified deadlines.
   • Collaborate with the business development and project management teams to review bids, assess risk, and determine pricing strategies to secure new projects.
   • Complete the pre-bid form and set up a summary sheet.
   • Fill out bonding and insurance requests and submission.
4. Proposal Writing:
   • Write technical narratives for RFPs and RFQs.
   • Prepare proposals for lumpsum, construction management, and design build projects.
5. Cost Control and Value Engineering:
   • Collaborate with project managers and engineers to review cost projections throughout the project lifecycle.
   • Identify opportunities for value engineering and cost-saving measures without compromising project quality and safety.
6. Vendor and Subcontractor Management:
   • Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure competitive pricing and timely delivery of materials and services.
7. Market Analysis:
   • Stay up-to-date with industry trends, market conditions, and construction costs to inform accurate estimations and bid strategies.
   • Evaluate competitors and market dynamics to position the company competitively in the marketplace.
8. Risk Assessment:
   • Conduct risk analysis for each project to identify potential cost overruns and contingencies.
   • Implement risk management strategies to minimize potential losses and maximize profitability.
9. Other:
   • Organize plans and specifications for display, and distribution posting on our website.
   • Prepare sub-trade request list for estimating assistant.
   • Take off and extend all trades. This position requires a good understanding of division 2 (30) and division 3 scope of work and estimating. The ability to read and understand soils and designated substance reports is a must. The ability to conduct a cut and fill take off, excavation backfill, site servicing, and formwork and concrete quantities and pricing are a must.
   • Ability to attend site visits (personal vehicle is a must), take pictures, and notes, and interact with owner/consultant.

Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to diagnose, analyze and develop solutions to complex issues
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Analytical and strong problem-solving ability
• Attention to detail
• Ability to train junior staff
• Self-starter with an excellent attitude and initiative
• Ability to work on unit-rate tenders and ability to perform take-off in direct relation to the units.
• Ability to recap, price, and extend quantity take-off.
• The ability to close a division or more during a tender.
• The ability to perform Class D, C, B and A budgets and interact with clients.

Qualification Requirements:

• Engineering degree or Construction Management degree, Technical College diploma, or equivalent combination of technical training and/or related experience.
• Proven experience in Construction Estimating with a minimum of 10 years in the ICI construction industry or equivalent.
• Deep knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry best practices.
• Computer literate, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Project.
• Proven ability to successfully manage a tender closing.
• Thorough knowledge of all aspects of construction (technology, equipment, methods), industry practices, estimating/budgeting, scheduling, and safety requirements.
• Gold Seal Certified is an asset.
• LEED Accredited is an asset.
• Procore and BIM software knowledge is an asset.

Here’s What You’ll Love:

• The opportunity to work with a growing company that works on diverse projects while using advanced software technology
• Career development and training tailored to you
• A work environment that cares about their employees and is inclusive and welcoming to all
• Competitive benefit plan

Interested candidates are to apply through the below website: Buttcon Careers. While we thank all applicants, only those under consideration for the position will be contacted. Buttcon Limited is an equal opportunity employer that proudly recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. Accommodations are available on request for applicants with disabilities taking part in the recruitment and selection process. Any information obtained during the course of recruitment will be used for employment purposes only and not for any other purpose.