Construction estimators – NOC : 2234

Unit Group

2234 Construction estimators

Construction estimators analyze costs of and prepare estimates on civil engineering, architectural, structural, electrical and mechanical construction projects. They are employed by residential, commercial and industrial construction companies and major electrical, mechanical and trade contractors, or they may be self-employed.

Example Titles

chief estimator – construction

construction estimator

cost estimator – construction

principal estimator – construction

professional quantity surveyor

quantity surveyor – construction

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Main duties

Construction estimators perform some or all of the following duties:

Prepare estimates of probable costs of materials, labour and equipment for construction projects based on contract bids, quotations, schematic drawings and specifications
Advise on tendering procedures, examine and analyze tenders, recommend tender awards and conduct negotiations
Establish and maintain tendering process and set up cost monitoring and reporting systems and procedures
Prepare cost and expenditure statements and forecasts at regular intervals for the duration of a project
Prepare and maintain a directory of suppliers, contractors and subcontractors
Liaise, consult and communicate with engineers, architects, owners, contractors and subcontractors, and prepare economic feasibility studies on changes and adjustments to cost estimates
Manage and co-ordinate construction projects and prepare construction progress schedules.

Estimators may specialize in estimating costs for structural, electrical or mechanical construction projects.

Employment requirements

Completion of secondary school is required.
Completion of a three-year college program in civil or construction engineering technology
or
Several years of experience as a qualified tradesperson in a construction trade such as plumbing, carpentry or electrical, are required.
Certification by the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors is usually required.

Additional information

Progression to more senior positions in this unit group, such as senior estimator or to construction management positions is possible with experience.

Classified elsewhere

Architectural technologists and technicians (2251)
Civil engineering technologists and technicians (2231)
Civil engineers (2131)
Construction managers (0711)