Pre-Construction Coordinator

North American Rail Solutions

15d•$100,000 - $130,000

About The Position

If you’re a detail‑oriented engineering or estimating professional who enjoys building projects from the ground up — from concept through bid and into execution — this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact on major rail infrastructure projects. Universal Rail Solutions Inc. is seeking a Pre‑Construction Coordinator to support early project development, cost planning, constructability reviews, and bid preparation across rail and heavy civil work in Eastern Canada. Reporting to the Lead Estimator, the Pre‑Construction Coordinator plays a key role in the early phases of project development. You will support conceptual design, quantity take‑offs, cost estimating, constructability reviews, and coordination with internal teams, clients, and subcontractors. This role helps ensure projects are accurately scoped, competitively priced, and constructible before construction begins — supporting confident decision‑making and successful project delivery.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field
3–5 years of experience in estimating or procurement within the rail or heavy civil construction industry
Strong understanding of rail construction methods, materials, and equipment
Solid knowledge of CCDC and CCA contract structures
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and estimating software (e.g., B2W or similar)
Working knowledge of scheduling tools such as Primavera P6 or MS Project
Ability to read and interpret drawings, blueprints, and technical schematics
Knowledge of North American railway standards and owners (e.g., AREMA, APTA, TCRP, Transport Canada, Metrolinx, CN, CPKC, VIA Rail)
Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem‑solving skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment
Valid driver’s licence, clean driver’s abstract, and willingness to travel to project sites as needed

Nice To Haves

Experience with cost control, budgeting, and value engineering is an asset
Bilingual (English / French) is an asset

Responsibilities

Analyze tender documents, contract requirements, and project scope; prepare risk analysis for internal pre‑bid meetings
Prepare detailed quantity take‑offs and cost estimates from drawings, specifications, and pre‑construction documents
Perform constructability reviews to identify risks, design gaps, and value‑engineering opportunities
Develop preliminary project schedules, phasing plans, and construction logistics strategies
Analyze historical cost data, market conditions, and subcontractor pricing to support competitive and realistic estimates
Prepare cost breakdowns, bid summaries, and recommendations for senior management review
Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing for budget and tender submissions
Participate in pre‑bid meetings, site visits, and client presentations
Maintain organized estimate files, assumptions, and supporting documentation
Prepare formal estimate reports, cost models, and budget updates for leadership and clients
Track design changes and update estimates accordingly
Participate in bid closings, tender reviews, and estimate presentations
Lead the handover process to Operations once a contract is awarded