Estimator/lumber Desk Clerk

The Estimator/Lumber Desk Clerk will be responsible for the accurate, timely preparation of full-cost estimates for projects, including materials and delivery. This position will be tasked with preparing and maintaining a list of suppliers, contractors and subcontractors, and establishing unit costs, delivery rates, productivity factors and location impacts.

**Reporting to the Lumber Desk Supervisor, responsibilities for this position include the following**:

- Come to work with a positive and professional approach and attitude
- Be dependable for all scheduled shifts
- Provide outstanding and courteous customer service at all times.
- Provide information, estimates and assistance and service to customers in a manner which will actively promote the sale of merchandise and meet or exceed customers’ requirements and expectations
- Ensure the “Care Commitment” Program is followed
- Prepare and/or coordinate materials, and delivery cost estimations necessary to successfully carry out a construction project according to proposals, plans, estimates and specifications.
- Prepare and maintain a list of suppliers, contractors and subcontractors.
- Ensure claims, invoices and all other paperwork is completed in an accurate and timely manner, while following all procedure requirements.
- Recommend/reject proposals based on proposal procedures, study and analyze proposals received and negotiate contracts.
- Establish unit costs, productivity factors and location impacts.
- Present estimates and conduct review meetings with clients.
- Review proposal specifications and drawings to determine scope of work and required contents of estimate.
- Prepare estimates by calculating complete takeoff of scope of work.
- Maintain files of working documents as back-up for estimate figures, including current (accurate) information on prices from suppliers through direct contact, sales brochures, price lists, etc.
- Support other department personnel as required which may include preparing estimates for other disciplines.
- Review design options and recommend best solution based on cost, engineering quality, or availability of materials.
- Co-ordinate and order special inventory from project sales
- Maintain a neat, clean and orderly location, including the office and the yard, at all times
- Effectively determine the bid strategies required for the company to be successful.
- Assist corporate and project management teams to determine what types of projects to bid on.
- Review all final estimate packages to ensure accuracy and completeness, prior to formal quotation.
- Participate in presentations to management and clients. May be responsible for "closing the sale".
- Provide technical assistance in negotiating contracts, change orders, etc. as required.
- Initiate, prepare, and place orders for replenishment of merchandise with approved suppliers, as directed by the Lumber Desk Supervisor
- May assist in the preparation of studies, materials and methods, recommendations, and cost estimates as required.
- Adhere to all Dawson Co-operative Union policies and procedures
- Adhere to all Dawson Co-operative Union health and safety standards, per the Health and Safety manual
- Plan for self development and take initiative to improve own knowledge, skills and abilities
- Other duties as assigned

**Qualifications**
- High school diploma, G.E.D. or equivalent.
- Post-secondary degree or diploma in construction/engineering degree, or an appropriate field considered an asset.
- 1-2 years of experience in cost estimation considered and asset.
- Ability to read and interpret building specifications, blueprints and as-builds.
- Mathematical skills and analytical skills necessary to do material and labor estimates.
- Mathematical skills and analytical skills necessary to interpret job cost reports.
- Ability to use cost-estimating software to prepare cost quotes and bids.
- Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (excel, word, etc.)
- Effective verbal and listening communications skills.
- Time management skills.
- Must possess a valid driver's license.
- Proactive in ensuring job knowledge is current.
- Respect diversity - treat others with respect.
- Strong working mechanical knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
- Ability to readily determine the correct tools and equipment needed to do a job.
- Knowledge of safe operation of basic hand and power tools.
- Client service and public interaction skills.
- Ability to work in a team environment with a minimum of supervision.
- Collaborative in dealing with customers and fellow employees.
- Customer focused - respond promptly to customer needs.
- Establish and maintain effective relationships with customers.
- Receptive to change - can adapt to changing circumstances.
- Knowledge of relevant Building Code requirements and other specifications
- Ability to read and understand blueprints
- Positive and results oriented attitude; to prospec