Chief Estimator

Job Description

The Chief Estimator leads, supervises, and assists the estimating team and works closely with the Manager, Project Services, to develop project estimates, budgets, and bid proposals. These documents support new business acquisition and ongoing operations.

Responsibilities

• Analyze drawings, designs, specifications, and tender documentation to prepare schedules, cost estimates, and bid documents.
• Supervise estimating activities and conduct reviews.
• Assist in soliciting quotations from vendors and subcontractors; consult with vendors and specialists.
• Involve in performance calculations and adjust estimates to reflect historical performance.
• Interface with other departments to obtain needed information.
• Manage information and help implement the company’s estimating standards.
• Utilize the company’s estimating and scheduling software, as well as spreadsheets, word processing, and presentation software.
• Prepare all tenders in accordance with the company’s bidding process.
• Conduct and/or manage bid proposal efforts and review sessions.
• Provide proficiency in proposal write‑ups (letters, methodologies, clarifications, etc.).
• Assist the Proposal Coordinator in meeting all tender submission deliverables.
• Support project management to ensure continuity between tender, construction, and project completion.
• Work with significant autonomy and minimal supervision.
• Supervise and mentor less experienced estimators.
• Operate company vehicles when required, holding a current State Driver’s License and an acceptable driving record.
• Keep work areas safe and conduct risk assessments; comply with safety directives, policies, and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding company and client information.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, handbooks, SOPs, and Core Competencies.
• Work in excess of 40 hours per week, including overtime, day and night, weekends, holidays, and shift rotations.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
• Assist other job functions as required.
• Travel to project sites as required.
• Project senior and executive management with updates on all tendering activities.
• Liaise with clients throughout the tender and project kick‑off process.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Mathematics, or Business Administration.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of post‑graduate field or office‑based experience in project accounting, estimating, or controls related to underground construction or mining operations.
• Knowledge of project management, construction contracts, reporting, and data manipulation.
• Good understanding of business interfaces (human resources, procurement, engineering, construction operations, accounting, administration).
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to facilitate team commitment.
• Ability to supervise subordinate staff.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, internally and externally.
• Manage estimating and related project services on projects.
• Comprehensive computer skills, including Microsoft Office, scheduling software (MS Project or Primavera), and measurement and estimating software.
• Ability to pass background clearance check, drug screening, and a physical exam.
• Self‑directed and able to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Skill in preparing written reports and correspondence.
• Team orientation with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail, neatness, and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.