Estimator, Major Projects (Hybrid Role)

Estimator, Major Products

Job Summary:
Under the guidance and direction of Manager, Commercial Services, the Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for rail construction projects. This includes new track construction, maintenance, LRTs, switching systems, and signal services. This role supports procurement planning, cost analysis, proposal writing, and bid development while ensuring compliance with client specifications, safety standards, and industry regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for rail construction projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor services
• Analyze project specifications, drawings, and technical documents to determine scope and pricing
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and procurement teams to gather input and validate assumptions
• Develop and maintain unit cost databases and historical pricing records specific to rail construction
• Evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotes for accuracy, scope alignment, and competitiveness
• Support procurement and field operations by assisting with material ordering, confirming material accuracy, and coordinating timely delivery to site.
• Identify and quantify risk factors and contingencies in estimates
• Participate in pre-bid site visits and technical reviews to assess project conditions
• Review contracts and provide comments/red-lines to clients. Execute contracts with agreeable terms and conditions.
• Track actual job costs and compare against estimates to improve future accuracy
• Maintain and update customer/contact databases and bid tracking systems
• Ensure compliance with applicable rail safety standards, environmental regulations, and client requirements
• Attend bid meetings and support estimating presentations as needed
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field
• Minimum 2 years of experience in estimating or procurement within the rail or heavy civil construction industry
• Strong understanding of rail construction methods, materials, and equipment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and estimating software (e.g., Bid2Win, HeavyBid, or similar)
• Familiarity with scheduling software (e.g., MS Project, P6, or similar)
• Ability to read and interpret AutoCAD drawings and technical schematics
• Knowledge of Canadian railway standards (e.g., Transport Canada, CN, CP, CROR)
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Works well under pressure
• Experience with cost control, budgeting, and value engineering is an asset
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to project sites as needed

Job Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent (post-secondary education preferred)
• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in rail or infrastructure estimating
• Clear driver’s abstract and criminal background check
• Willingness to travel for site assessments, meetings, and bid reviews.

Work Environment:

• Primarily office-based with occasional field visits to rail construction sites
• Exposure to outdoor environments, active rail corridors, and construction zones
• Flexible schedule depending on bid deadlines and project demands

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