Estimator - Civil Construction
About The Position
KLS Earthworks & Environmental is seeking a Construction Estimator with strategic influence and decision-making authority to join our team in Calgary. This role is ideal for an experienced civil construction professional with strong industry relationships, a deep understanding of earthworks and/or underground construction, and the ability to lead complex estimates from concept through submission. Reporting to the Senior Estimator, the Estimator plays a critical role in shaping KLS’s project pipeline by delivering accurate, competitive, and strategic estimates while supporting long-term client relationships and business growth. This position is well suited for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, brings sound judgment to risk and opportunity assessment, and enjoys collaborating with operations, project teams, and industry partners.
Requirements
- Senior-level estimating experience in civil construction, with a strong focus on earthworks and underground utilities
- Established relationships within the civil construction industry (clients, consultants, subcontractors, suppliers)
- Experience estimating both lump sum and unit rate projects
- Experience with indemnified projects
- Strong understanding of construction risk, sequencing, and execution planning
- Ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office; Microsoft Project experience required
- Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
- Willingness to work extended hours, including occasional evenings or weekends, as required by bid schedules
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of HeavyBid and Vista Viewpoint considered an asset
- AutoCAD Civil 3D experience considered an asset
- Experience with City of Calgary permitting, temporary shutdowns, and public notifications considered an asset
Responsibilities
- Lead the preparation of detailed, accurate estimates for civil construction projects, including earthworks and underground utilities
- Develop execution strategies, risk assessments, and assumptions for tenders
- Leverage existing industry relationships to support pricing, subcontractor engagement, and business development efforts
- Liaise with clients, consultants, subtrades, suppliers, engineers, architects, and regulatory bodies
- Review drawings, specifications, contracts, and bid documents to ensure complete scope coverage
- Evaluate subcontractor pricing and participate in negotiations
- Identify high-risk elements within estimates and propose solutions aligned with company and project objectives
- Support project handover meetings and collaborate with operations teams to ensure alignment between estimate and execution
- Assist with job cost reviews and post-project analysis to improve estimating accuracy
- Develop and implement cost-saving methods and value-engineering opportunities
- Create and maintain schedules using Microsoft Project
- Support permitting, shutdown coordination, and public notification requirements where applicable
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
501-1,000 employees
