Senior Cost Estimator

Overview

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Watch Our Story: https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story

Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

Responsibilities

- Prepare detailed quantity take-offs and cost estimates from the early design development stages to tender and construction-ready architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and civil works drawings and specifications.
- Prepare and interpret design documents including concept and schematic design stages, tender documents, specifications, general conditions, other parts, and forms of contracts.
- Perform a detailed review of contract specifications and drawings to identify errors, discrepancies and/or ambiguities which may impact estimate accuracy.
- Lead the development of capital, operation and maintenance, lifecycle, and other cost estimates for the proposed infrastructure improvements consistent with an Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE).
- Prepare a quantity variance report at various stages of cost planning and for bid analysis when required.
- Assist in value engineering assignments.
- Complete peer reviews of external estimates and budgets and make recommendations as to format and accuracy.
- Support commercial and project management teams with cost analysis for delay claims and Change Order Requests.
- Maintain current construction cost information using a combination of historical costs, market research, and construction cost indices and references.
- Work as an integral member of project teams, and coordinate several projects concurrently as needed.
- Perform other duties as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

- Professional Quantity Surveyor (PQS) from Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyor.
- Membership from Association for Advancement of Cost Engineering International (AACEi) is an asset.
- Computer literate and be comfortable with electronic measurement and estimate preparation using applications such as On-Screen Takeoff, RIB CostX, or equal.
- Experienced with calculation and application of General Conditions and General Requirements allowances, contingency, and escalation within cost plans and estimates.
- Good organizational and communication (written and verbal) skills.
- Have the ability to handle multiple, diverse assignments.
- Familiarity with Metrolinx Estimating Guide for External Consultants and Metrolinx cost estimate templates is an asset.
- Familiarity with the extraction of quantities from BIM models is an asset.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Project and Primavera is an asset.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or Construction Science Engineering or equivalent experience
- A minimum of 10 years' related experience
- Advanced understanding of Microsoft Office software
- Advanced understanding of construction estimating concepts, construction scheduling and elements associated with Risk
- Able to lead small project estimates
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic / Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

At HDR, the health and safety of our employees is of the utmost importance. In accordance with local safety, health, and environmental legislation, HDR is committed to developing, maintaining, and enforcing proactive safe work policies, procedures, and standards.

In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and other applicable legislation, we are committed to meeting the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities. Candidates with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment and selection process by contacting our Human Resources team.

HDR is a certified Living Wage Employer in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.

Additional Information

Primary Location

Industry

Transit

Schedule

Schedule

Full-time

Employee Status

Regular

Job Posting

Aug 26, 2025

We are committed to employment equity and equal opportunity. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.

Ready to learn more? Let’s work together to make great things possible. We design solutions to the world's greatest challenges. We’re always looking for great talent to join our global teams.

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