Estimator

We are Chandos.

We exist to build a better world.

Our vision is to emerge as Canada’s premier technical builder, distinguished by our relentless pursuit of innovation , collaboration , and sustainability in all that we do.

We are 100 per cent employee-owned , and our success is driven by our employee owners. We prioritize people, purpose, and performance in all that we do. When the company thrives, you benefit directly. When everyone is invested - literally - it builds a community of accountability, pride and mutual support.

We look for team members who are gritty , accountable , and driven - with a mindset rooted in initiative and purpose , you think like an entrepreneur and build strong, trusting relationships through clear communication and thoughtful dialogue, even in challenging conversations.

We are seeking an Estimator with a passion for collaborative delivery models to join our team. You’ll be at the heart of collaborative, multi‑stakeholder projects, delivering cost certainty and value from project conception through to construction start on site.

You’ll join a company that’s pioneering the collaborative superstar: Integrative Project Delivery (IPD) in Canada, with projects that truly move the needle on collaboration and innovation in construction.

Minimum requirements

This role is best suited to an estimator who has independently carried responsibility for complete building estimates. Candidates must have been the lead or sole estimator responsible for full project estimates from concept through submission, with accountability for all scopes, trade pricing, bid strategy, risk review, and final submission. Experience focused primarily on a single trade, discipline, quantity takeoffs, or estimating support functions is not sufficient.

Responsibilities

Effectively determine the bid strategies required for Chandos to be successful; Prepare and coordinate full‑cost estimates for full scope of work, for all project phases, concept to tender, with a focus on collaborative methodology; Lead estimating workshops to align costs with project goals and foster transparent decision‑making; Perform detailed material, labour, equipment, and subcontractor take‑offs; Establish and maintain unit costs, labour rates, escalation, and contingency allowances; Solicit competitive bids, negotiate with subcontractors/suppliers, and conduct value‑engineering reviews; Provide constructability advice during pre‑construction, coordinating with operations teams on procurement, schedule, and logistics; Track estimated vs. actual costs, report variances, and support lessons learned for continuous improvement; Build and maintain exceptionally strong relationships with subtrades, consultants, suppliers, and all of our valued clients

Requirements

Minimum 5+ years of estimating experience with a commercial general contractor (not a self-performing contractor or developer).; Proven experience leading complete building estimates from concept through submission for ICI projects.; Experience estimating complex commercial, institutional, healthcare, residential, recreational, or mixed-use developments.; Strong understanding of all major building systems and construction scopes, including site works, structural, architectural, mechanical, and electrical.; Able to clearly present complex cost information and influence project and business decisions.; Post-secondary degree or diploma in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.; CEC (CIQS) designation required, PQS designation preferred.; Strong organizational, prioritization, and process discipline with advanced proficiency in Excel and estimating software.; Able to thrive under tight deadlines while managing multiple pursuits simultaneously.; Proficient in interpreting drawings, specifications, construction methodologies, and cost models.; Collaborative approach with the ability to build consensus among diverse project stakeholders.; Confident communicator who can present and defend estimates, assumptions, and recommendations.; Strong understanding of market conditions, subcontractor markets, procurement strategies, and construction cost drivers.