Chief Estimator

Chief Estimator

Where Greatness Grows

The greatest achievements in history are borne from the greatness within people – where human potential meets vision, and passion fuels evolution. Unlocking this potential is the most important thing we do at Bird.

As a leader in Canadian construction for over 100 years, the impact of our team is etched deeply within the core of our legacy. Beyond Bird, this impact is felt in the fundamental aspects of our everyday lives. From the critical infrastructure we depend on, to the energy and resources that keep us moving - we are powering our communities and shaping Canada’s skylines coast-to-coast. Entrenched in the foundation of a culture built more than a century ago is an enduring quest to reimagine what is possible. Our impact is greater than ever, and we are looking for those who seek to redefine their story.

We are a dynamic team of over 5,000 with a range of professions, backgrounds, and areas of expertise. This breadth of diversity in people and opportunities is one of greatest aspects of building your career with Bird. Every trajectory looks different. At Bird, you hold the pen, and you write your story. As you unlock your potential, you are surrounded by a team that supports you every step of the way.

Be a part of our team, where we pride ourselves on the quality of our work and the way we treat each other and our partners. You will build a career and long-lasting relationships based on respect, collaboration, and a solution-focused mindset. Bird is a place where you will unlock your potential and achieve your goals.

Reporting to the Manager of Preconstruction, the Chief Estimator leads, directs and coordinates the procurement process for all assigned projects from the concept to tender, including participation in the contract letting and pre-construction planning stage.
The role is responsible for the management of the estimating team, as well as subcontractor/supplier relations and continual development of estimating procedures and processes. This position requires a highly experienced, dynamic leader with sound knowledge of fundamental estimating, strong vendor and client relationship management skills and business development. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience leading bid submissions including ICI projects in Construction Management, Design Build, Fixed Price, P3 and IPD delivery models.

This position is based in the South Edmonton Office.

What you will be working on

Preconstruction

• Drive estimating strategies to meet project targets for performance, schedule, and profitability.

• Collaborate with management and preconstruction teams to pursue new market opportunities and develop budget, cost plans, and value engineering solutions.

• Build and maintain relationships with clients, suppliers, and key stakeholders, including public and government partners.

• Lead preparation of estimating deliverables, oversee contract partnering and project initiation, and maintain KPI tracking.

• Participate in project scheduling, procurement planning, resource forecasting, and risk assessment.

• Ensure project constructability, manage budgets throughout design, and supervise tendering and award of subtrade contracts.

• Resolve cost, productivity, and delivery issues early, providing reliable project data and supporting the project manager with WBS development.

Construction

• Monitor and track forecasted labour, materials and equipment.

• Participate in monthly project Work in Progress (WIP) update and meeting.

• Assists with the development of project strategy that secures the project.

• Meets or exceeds the projects required performance and scheduled profitability targets.

Post-Construction

• Participate in project close out report and conduct lessons learned.

• Participate in reconciliation of contract value.

• Conduct variance reports to track validity of Estimates and actual productivity.

Employee and Talent Management

• Develop the assigned project team members with the help of the division/branch management team, including the acquisition of new talent, continuous positive and constructive feedback and the assessment of non-performing employees.

• Conduct career progress check-ins as required by company policy.

What we are looking for

• A Degree in quantity surveying, engineering, or related field preferred.

• PQS, CET, or P. Eng designation (eligible or attained) is an asset.

• 10-15 years of estimating experience on large commercial, high-rise, civil, or institutional projects ($50M+), using varied delivery methods.

• Proven ability to manage complex, large-scale projects with significant scope and risk.

• Proficiency with estimating software (In Eight, On-screen Takeoff considered an asset) as well as strong analytical/math skills.

• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills; able to collaborate well with teams and stakeholders.

• Demonstrated integrity, urgency, accuracy, and a commitment to quality in a dynamic environment.

• Leadership that models resilience, accountability, and transparency, inspiring hands-on team engagement.

We Put Safety First

A healthy and safe work environment is non-negotiable. We build a culture of operational and psychological safety through engagement, learning and leadership.

We Lead With Honesty

We speak and act with integrity, clarity and care so people can trust our word and our work. Being honest means we can deliver the best outcomes and consistent results.

We Are Stronger Together

Success is a team effort. Our inclusive workplace enables our combined expertise, humility and creativity to unlock our greater potential.

We Are Driven To Do Great Work

We built our name on quality. We have a passion for excellence in our work and relationships that honours our businesses and our industry.

We Create Opportunity

Rooted in a solid foundation, we adapt and grow to face the future. We are committed to elevating each other to chart the best path forward in an evolving world.

Bird is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I). This is a core part of our culture and guides our actions and strategic priorities. We strive to create an inclusive environment where every employee can thrive and share their unique perspectives and talents. Our ongoing commitments focus on addressing inequities and promoting a better understanding of diversity to build an inclusive and fair culture. We recognize that diverse teams are more knowledgeable, perform better, and achieve greater success. As such, we are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and creating opportunities for all employees to grow and succeed.