Merit Ontario is a construction association supporting small to large construction companies with workforce needs across Ontario. Our talent specialists provide recruitment services and customized solutions to find quality candidates.
Job Title: Estimator – Institutional, Commercial, and Industrial (ICI) Construction
Job Description: Our member is seeking an experienced and highly organized Estimator to join their Preconstruction team, in Port Colborne, ON, supporting a range of Institutional, Commercial, and Industrial (ICI) projects.
This role requires more than technical estimating proficiency—it calls for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can manage multiple complex bids at once, and is adaptable to shifting priorities. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in the early success of projects by delivering accurate, timely, and well-documented estimates that reflect both project requirements and market conditions.
Key Responsibilities

• Prepare complete, detailed, and competitive cost estimates for ICI projects, including all scopes of work, materials, labour, and equipment.
• Interpret and analyze construction drawings, specifications, and project documents to fully understand project scope and requirements.
• Conduct quantity takeoffs and evaluate drawings to identify cost impacts and potential constructability issues.
• Request and evaluate pricing from subcontractors and suppliers, ensuring scope alignment, accuracy, and competitiveness.
• Manage multiple concurrent estimates—each potentially at different stages of development—while balancing timelines and shifting priorities.
• Adapt quickly to tight deadlines, evolving client expectations, or design revisions without compromising quality.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site visits to assess existing conditions, risks, and logistics that could influence pricing and scheduling.
• Contribute to the preparation of proposals and bid submissions, including scope narratives, clarifications, and supporting documentation.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with the preconstruction, project management, and field teams to ensure alignment from concept to execution.
• Maintain and improve estimating tools, databases, and historical cost records to enhance consistency and accuracy.
• Monitor industry trends, pricing fluctuations, and market dynamics to inform decision-making.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architectural Technology, or a related discipline—or equivalent industry experience.
• Demonstrated success in estimating ICI construction projects.
• Proficient in construction estimating software (e.g., PlanSwift, Bluebeam, Sage Estimating) and Microsoft Office (particularly Excel).
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time effectively and prioritize competing demands.
• Detail-oriented with excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Effective communicator with the ability to coordinate and negotiate with subcontractors, vendors, and internal teams.
• Knowledge of local construction codes, standards, and best practices.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to job sites as required.

Please note only qualified candidates will be contacted.
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