Residential Construction Estimator

Ackard Contractors•Edmonton, AB

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Estimator is responsible for preparing and coordinating full cost estimates for projects, including materials, labour, and equipment. This includes developing and maintaining supplier, contractor, and subcontractor pricing, as well as establishing unit costs, labour rates, productivity factors, and location impacts. The Estimator plays a key role in the profitability of the business, where under-estimating can result in financial loss and over-estimating may reduce competitiveness. This role also requires strong communication, cross-functional collaboration, and support of overall project success.

Requirements

5+ years of estimating experience, preferably in residential or commercial construction.
Strong understanding of residential construction methods, sequencing, and typical renovation challenges.
Ability to read, interpret, and mark up drawings with accuracy and attention to detail.
Experience completing material takeoffs and building clear, detailed cost estimates.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel for tracking, organizing, and building estimates.
Ability to identify missing scope, inconsistencies, or potential issues in drawings and proactively address them.
Good judgment when balancing accuracy with speed in a fast-paced environment with multiple deadlines.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple estimates at once.
Clear and professional communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across sales, drafting, and construction teams.
Comfortable asking questions, challenging unclear information, and working through ambiguity.
A team-oriented mindset with a willingness to support others and contribute to overall project success.
Interest in improving estimating accuracy, processes, and tools over time.

Nice To Haves

Residential interior design experience is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Scheduling & Planning
Review sales handoffs and drawings for clarity, design intent, and scope alignment; recommend cost-effective solutions and coordinate updates with sales and drafting to ensure complete and accurate documentation.
Define scope of work and estimate requirements; review estimate packages for accuracy and completeness prior to issuing requests for quotes.
Lead and attend trade site visits to confirm scope, validate pricing, and identify risks or constructability challenges.
Develop detailed cost estimates at all project stages, including materials, labour, equipment, subtrade pricing, productivity factors, and location impacts to support project execution.
Assess and include allowances for indirect costs, design unknowns, escalation, and contingency.
Develop client proposals and contract documents based on drawings, scope, and estimates.
Maintain accurate estimating records, including up-to-date supplier and subcontractor pricing through direct engagement and market sources.
Prepare construction handoff packages and participate in internal project consultation meetings, clearly communicating assumptions, risks, and scope.
Collaborate with sales, drafting, design, production, and construction teams to ensure alignment on scope, priorities, and project strategy throughout the project lifecycle.
Prepare purchase orders and change orders as required.
Engage directly with clients throughout the project lifecycle, maintaining a professional, solutions-focused approach to build strong relationships and positive outcomes.
Manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Continuously identify and support improvements to estimating processes, accuracy, and efficiency.

Benefits

Competitive Compensation
Full benefits package including dental, prescriptions, eye exams, and extended health services like chiropractic, physiotherapy, and massage therapy—plus an Employee & Family Assistance program, all through Sun Life benefits.
Short-term and long-term disability coverage
Life Insurance
Voluntary RRSP Plan: With company contributions
Opportunities for professional development training, career growth, and skills development.
Positive, Team-Driven Culture
Birthday, workaversary, and milestone recognition.
Holiday Shutdown: Enjoy a break with our shutdown over the Christmas holidays.
Team-Building Activities
Work-Life Balance: We prioritize your well-being with little to no overtime and no overnight travel for work.