Civil Estimator

Job Title: Civil Estimator/Project Manager -Kitchener Location: Kitchener, ON (Office-based with periodic site visits)Commute Requirement: Must live within approximately 1 hour driving distanceWork Type: In-office / field-connected role (not remote)Vehicle ProvidedReports To: OwnerSalary: $100,000+ (based on experience) A Message to Local Civil Estimators This role is intentionally designed for local civil contractors and estimators within commuting distance to Kitchener who may be feeling underutilized, unsupported, or stuck without mentorship in their current role. At this company, estimating is not a back-office function -  it is a trusted, respected, and supported position that works directly with ownership. You will learn how this company bids and runs work directly from a construction-savvy owner who built the business from the ground up. This is a practical, grounded, respectful environment where accuracy matters, learning is encouraged, and effort is recognized. Come learn and grow alongside the business and its future generation. Position Overview The Estimator/Project Manager is a key role within the company, responsible for leading all estimating functions while providing support to project coordination and execution. This position directly contributes to the company’s growth objectives of $10-15 million annually through the development of accurate and competitive bids, strong stakeholder relationships, and efficient project delivery. The ideal candidate demonstrates technical proficiency, exceptional organization, and a proactive approach to securing and managing work. This position offers long-term stability, mentorship, and the opportunity to grow into broader responsibility as the company continues to expand. The company is a heavy underground civil contractor specializing in: Road reconstruction Sewer installation Watermain installation Primary Responsibilities Core Estimating Functions · Review project documents, drawings, specifications, and contracts to determine scope and cost parameters.· Conduct detailed quantity takeoffs for labour, equipment, and materials.· Develop comprehensive cost breakdowns and prepare estimates.· Apply accurate resource allocation for labour, materials, and equipment.· Manage and submit competitive bids, targeting a capacity of $10–15 million annually.· Ensure all estimates comply with municipal specifications, safety standards, and regulatory codes.· Identify and evaluate project risks and opportunities based on contract terms and site conditions. This role requires someone who can take ownership of estimating accuracy, think independently, double-check work, and learn how this company bids and executes projects. Bid Management · Organize and maintain bid documentation and tender files.· Issue and track RFIs; participate in tender closings and bid reviews.· Prepare and submit quotation letters and support documentation.· Maintain confidentiality of bid data and proprietary pricing information. Procurement and Supplier Management · Identify and coordinate subcontractor scopes and supplier requirements.· Solicit, analyze, and negotiate quotations to ensure accuracy and competitiveness.· Maintain and update supplier and subcontractor databases for estimating purposes.· Develop lasting relationships with trade partners, suppliers, and clients. Business Development & Relationship Management · Monitor bid boards and online portals for upcoming project opportunities.· Collaborate with Ownership to identify and pursue appropriate projects.· Build relationships with consultants, engineers, and clients to support continuous business development.· Participate in site meetings, pre-construction meetings, and client engagements. Project Coordination & Support Change Order & Cost Control · Prepare and price change orders in collaboration with contract administrators.· Update estimates to reflect revised scopes and monitor project deviations. Constructability & Planning · Contribute to constructability reviews, staging plans, and cost-saving opportunities.· Assist in capacity planning and project sequencing with the Owner. Process Improvement & Standardization · Support the transition from manual estimating to digital systems at a future date.· Conduct post-project analysis to evaluate estimating accuracy and identify improvement areas.· Maintain and refine project cost metrics for future estimates. Administrative & Team Collaboration · Participate in weekly planning and strategy meetings.· Coordinate pre-qualification and bid documentation with administrative staff.· Collaborate with the Project Coordinator and field teams for compliance and documentation.· Maintain professional communication and transparency with leadership on all project matters. Secondary Responsibilities (During Non-Peak Periods) · Provide field supervision or on-site support for active projects as required.· Assist project coordination teams with documentation and scheduling support. Required Competencies Technical Skills · Proficient interpretation of civil construction drawings and specifications.· In-depth knowledge of civil construction equipment, materials, and production rates.· Familiarity with municipal regulatory frameworks and safety requirements.· Strong quantity takeoff and cost-estimating capabilities.· Understanding of construction scheduling and sequencing principles.· Experience with estimating software (or willingness to develop proficiency). Professional Attributes · Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.· Proven ability to manage high-volume bidding periods.· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills under pressure.· Professional and personable communication skills and negotiation abilities.· Collaborative and adaptable team-oriented mindset.· Demonstrated integrity and confidentiality in all dealings. Working Conditions · Office-based with regular site visits for project reviews and validation.· Standard business hours with flexibility during peak bidding cycles.· Participation in weekly estimation and coordination meetings.· Frequent collaboration across estimating, operations, and administrative teams. Reporting & Review Structure · Reports directly to the Owner/General Manager· Collaborates with:o Office Administrator (pre-qualification and bid administration)o Project Coordinator (safety planning and documentation)o Field Foremen (constructability and project coordination) as requiredo Suppliers/Subcontractors (procurement and pricing)o Future General Manager (strategic initiatives) All estimates are subject to review by the Owner/General Manager prior to submission, with growing autonomy as experience develops. This structure is designed to provide strong mentorship, trust, and support while enabling professional growth and increasing responsibility over time.