Chief Estimator

Our client is a well-established and growing general contractor with a strong presence across the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (ICI) construction market. Due to continued growth, they are seeking an experienced Chief Estimator to lead their pre-construction and estimating function.

Your New Role

As Chief Estimator, you will provide strategic leadership to the estimating department while overseeing the preparation of bids, budgets, and cost estimates for a diverse portfolio of construction projects. You will manage the full estimating life cycle from conceptual budgeting through tender close and project handover, ensuring all submissions are accurate, competitive, and aligned with company profitability objectives.

Reporting to senior leadership, you will mentor and develop a team of estimators, establish estimating standards and best practices, and work closely with operations and business development teams to support growth initiatives. You will also play a key role in bid pursuit strategies, risk management, client engagement, and continuous improvement of estimating processes and technologies.

What You'll Need to Succeed

• Diploma or Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architectural Technology, or a related field.
• 12+ years of progressive estimating experience within commercial, industrial, or institutional construction.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and mentoring estimating teams.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies, procurement strategies, contract administration, and delivery models including Lump Sum, Design-Build, and Construction Management.
• Proven experience leading large and complex tender submissions.
• Exceptional analytical, financial, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple pursuits and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Established relationships with subcontractors, consultants, and suppliers are considered an asset.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating department, including senior, intermediate, and junior estimators.
• Oversee conceptual estimates, budgets, detailed tenders, and procurement strategies.
• Review and approve all final estimates prior to submission.
• Lead bid strategy discussions, go/no-go decisions, and risk reviews.
• Ensure estimates align with profitability targets and corporate objectives.
• Support client presentations, proposal interviews, and pre-construction discussions.
• Maintain historical cost databases, benchmarking tools, and market intelligence.
• Drive process improvements, technology adoption, and estimating best practices.
• Collaborate with operations and business development teams to ensure successful project pursuits and handovers.
• Monitor key performance indicators including estimate accuracy, bid-to-win ratios, and proposal quality.

What You'll Get in Return

• Opportunity to join a respected and growing contractor with a strong project pipeline.
• Executive leadership role with influence on company growth and strategy.
• Competitive compensation package including bonus structure.
• Career advancement opportunities within a stable and collaborative organization.
• Exposure to high-profile and complex construction projects across Ontario.

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.

If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.