Project Estimator (Construction)

Valard Construction LP (‘’Valard’’) is Canada’s premier utility contractor, as well as head of the Valard Group of Companies and part of the Quanta Group, the largest electrical power contractor in North America. Valard has full-service capabilities for Transmission, Distribution, Substations, Foundations, Telecommunications and Renewable Energy.
We have an excellent opportunity for an experienced Substation Electrical Estimator to join our team of professionals. The ideal candidate will have previous experience in Substation Estimating, be organized, motivated, detail-oriented and driven.
This role will be responsible for compiling cost estimates to a client or potential client with products or services. He or she will do this by working out how much a project is likely to cost and create budgets accordingly. The job involves assessing material, labour and equipment required and analyzing different quotes from sub-contractors and suppliers.
The successful candidate might work from a bill of quantities or just a set of drawings from the client. Estimators provide prices for everything from a one-off scheme to maintenance projects which will be completed over several years. An estimator is concerned with getting the best price that will win the contract in a competitive bidding situation, while ensuring that the contract can be carried out profitably. The best price isn’t always the lowest one, and clients now award contracts based on quality of the service offered, as well as cost.
Requirements
Responsibilities and Duties

Assemble estimates from various sources into a complete and final estimate for the company with Engineering support as required.
Develop an understanding of indirect and conceptual estimating techniques and theories.
Review and validate outsourced estimates with support from engineer.
Review and incorporate historical data from estimates received, contracts awarded by the EPC Contractor and final actual project costs into Valard’s cost model.
Format estimates in Owners Reporting format.
Reviewing and understanding of the Design Basis, Engineering Design Documents, and Basis of Estimate.
Develops complete estimates on selected projects consisting of project site visit, quantity take-off, pricing, and presentation of the estimate for cost engineering and management review.
Provide estimating input on complex “conceptual” transmission projects.
Provides guidance for non-estimating personnel on their estimating related requirements.
Attend and assist in project planning sessions and team meetings to provide estimating input.
Interface and communicate effectively (written and oral) with the estimating team, with all levels of management, clients and industry contacts; contacts and develops business relationships with subcontractors and suppliers for pricing within estimates.
Develop or assist in the development of general and project specific plans for execution, sequencing, and logistics; including, when required, construction and work procedures for specific activities related to a bid.
Develop or assist in the development of preliminary project schedules.
Perform additional assignments per supervisor's direction.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• B.Sc. degree in Engineering, Bachelor of Commerce Degree (BCom), Construction Management Certificate, or equivalent combination of relevant experience and education
• 7+ years estimating, cost control and/or engineering with a minimum of 3 years estimating experience in projects ranging from $1M to $50M.

Understanding of construction documents and the ability to assess the level of completeness.
Has developed technical knowledge of estimating practices, techniques and equipment.
Accurate data input and calculating skills.
Knowledge of construction costs and budgets, ability to develop a project schedule.
Solid computer skills; Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook, Project and Excel.
Able to read drawings and specifications.
The ability to work in a team environment.
Ability to validate proposals, manage multiple priorities and work under pressure with minimal supervision.
Ability to identify problems/issues, looks beyond the immediate problem to the wider implications and generates possible solutions.
Verifiable work references demonstrating exceptional skills and achievements including:
A high level of professionalism; Dependable, results-focused and ethical
Strong organizational, multi-tasking and planning skills
Strong customer service
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Capable of adapting information/style to the audience, explains difficult information clearly and influences and persuades others towards consensus agreement in straightforward situations.

Benefits
Valard Construction LP is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse workforce. We offer a competitive salary and a complete range of employee benefits.
We thank all applicants for their interest. All applications will be reviewed to determine which candidates' education and experience best meet the needs of the position. Only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted