Junior Estimator

Where Greatness Grows The greatest achievements in history are borne from the greatness within people – where human potential meets vision, and passion fuels evolution. Unlocking this potential is the most important thing we do at Bird.

As a leader in Canadian construction for over 100 years, the impact of our team is etched deeply within the core of our legacy. Beyond Bird, this impact is felt in the fundamental aspects of our everyday lives. From the critical infrastructure we depend on, to the energy and resources that keep us moving - we are powering our communities and shaping Canada’s skylines coast-to-coast. Entrenched in the foundation of a culture built more than a century ago is an enduring quest to reimagine what is possible. Our impact is greater than ever, and we are looking for those who seek to redefine their story.

We are a dynamic team of over 5,000 with a range of professions, backgrounds, and areas of expertise. This breadth of diversity in people and opportunities is one of greatest aspects of building your career with Bird. Every trajectory looks different. At Bird, you hold the pen, and you write your story. As you unlock your potential, you are surrounded by a team that supports you every step of the way.

Be a part of our team, where we pride ourselves on the quality of our work and the way we treat each other and our partners. You will build a career and long-lasting relationships based on respect, collaboration, and a solution-focused mindset. Bird is a place where you will unlock your potential and achieve your goals.

Reporting to the Senior Director, Procurement the Estimator will be responsible for providing accurate estimating and subcontractor costing from the budgeting and estimating stage through the contract letting and planning stage of major projects.

This position is based in our Ottawa office and will require travel to sites as needed.

Please note that this position requires a Level II – Secret security clearance, as defined by the Government of Canada’s Contract Security Program.

What You Will Be Working On

• Develop estimates in accordance with Company procedures including takeoff and pricing of own forces work and selected subcontractor work.
• Solicit pricing from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Determine general expenses and provide input into margins/fees.
• Conduct thorough reviews of the project documents and analyze subcontractor requirements.
• Identify inherent risks and opportunities including strategies to create a competitive edge.
• Work with the client or consultants concerning issues that may require clarification or elaboration.
• Develop a preliminary project construction schedule as a basis for pricing of time related activities utilizing input from subcontractors and Bird staff.
• Prepare a summary of issues and participate in a detailed estimate review.
• Lead/participate in the closing of the estimate and submission of the tender.
• Assist in the development of post-tender submissions and in negotiations as required.
• Participate in project development activities including scope definition and clarification, preconstruction planning, control estimate development, and delivery.
• Provide preconstruction services including the preparation of preliminary budgets, cost plans, and value engineering opportunities.
• Work to identify leads and securement opportunities through contacts with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and others in the construction industry.
• Maintain databases, including labour rates, material pricing, and project costs, for future reference.
• Prepare conceptual estimates by interpreting historical data.

What We Are Looking For

• Undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or other equivalent construction program.
• Eligible for or have attained PQS or CET designation.
• Previously obtained Secret level security clearance.
• 2+ years’ “hands-on” experience in the capacity of Estimator including a full range of project delivery methods for ICI construction projects.
• Previous experience with civil construction or infrastructure projects is considered a strong asset.
• Extensive knowledge and experience with estimating techniques, tendering process, and negotiating contracts.
• Ability to read and interpret construction-related documents including plans, specifications, and other technical material.
• Experience working with estimating software programs such as In Eight and On-screen Takeoff.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and Adobe.
• Ability to forge, grow, and maintain positive relationships with the project team, sub-trades, consultants, and clients.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously and meet the time demands of unpredictable activities, capable of handling pressure and challenges in a dynamic business environment.
• Ability to work within tight deadlines and prioritization of work to achieve them.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, troubleshooting, problem-solving skills, strong math skills, and a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Highly developed interpersonal, communication (written and verbal), and organizational skills.
• Sense of urgency, flexibility, and strong commitment to achieving goals; ability to work in challenging, fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a positive attitude.

We Put Safety First A healthy and safe work environment is non-negotiable. We build a culture of operational and psychological safety through engagement, learning and leadership.

We Lead With Honesty We speak and act with integrity, clarity and care so people can trust our word and our work. Being honest means we can deliver the best outcomes and consistent results.

We Are Stronger Together Success is a team effort. Our inclusive workplace enables our combined expertise, humility and creativity to unlock our greater potential.

We Are Driven To Do Great Work We built our name on quality. We have a passion for excellence in our work and relationships that honours our businesses and our industry.

We Create Opportunity Rooted in a solid foundation, we adapt and grow to face the future. We are committed to elevating each other to chart the best path forward in an evolving world.

Bird is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I). This is a core part of our culture and guides our actions and strategic priorities. We strive to create an inclusive environment where every employee can thrive and share their unique perspectives and talents. Our ongoing commitments focus on addressing inequities and promoting a better understanding of diversity to build an inclusive and fair culture. We recognize that diverse teams are more knowledgeable, perform better, and achieve greater success. As such, we are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and creating opportunities for all employees to grow and succeed.