Estimator

Kichton Construction LP., (KCLP) is the Fort McMurray-based Heavy Civil entity within the Kichton Group of Companies. Kichton Construction LP commenced operations in 2019 as the industrial division of the Kichton Group to serve the energy and mining industries throughout North America. Since inception, KCLP has grown sustainably and exponentially, starting with 30 experienced team members in 2019, to over 400 team members and 300 pieces of heavy equipment.

Kichton Construction LP is looking for an experienced Heavy Civil Earthworks Estimator to join our team. This position will be responsible for preparing accurate, competitive estimates for heavy civil earthworks, mining, oil sands and infrastructure projects throughout Alberta.

The ideal candidate will have estimating experience within the Alberta oil sands and mining industry, with a strong understanding of large-scale earthworks, excavation, hauling, grading, site development and heavy equipment operations. We will also consider candidates with strong estimating experience in underground water, sewer and utility construction who are interested in expanding their experience into the oil sands and mining sector.

The successful candidate will understand not only how to develop an estimate, but also how the work will actually be constructed in the field. A strong understanding of equipment production, cycle times, labour requirements, site conditions and construction methodology is essential.

Compensation/Benefits

• Competitive salary - negotiable based on experience
• Paid vacation, sick and personal days
• Extended health, dental, travel and vision benefits
• $500/year health care spending account
• Life and dependent life insurance, AD&D, LTD
• RRSP matching up to 5% at 5 years of employment
• Company provided laptop and cell phone

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for heavy civil, earthworks, mining, oil sands and infrastructure projects.
• Review drawings, specifications, geotechnical information, tender documents and contract requirements.
• Complete detailed quantity take-offs for excavation, stripping, embankment, grading, granular materials, backfill, hauling and other civil construction activities.
• Develop labour, equipment, material, subcontractor and other project costs.
• Develop and validate equipment production rates and cycle times.
• Analyze haul distances, material types, ground conditions and site logistics.
• Obtain, evaluate and negotiate supplier and subcontractor quotations.
• Identify project risks, exclusions, assumptions and opportunities.
• Participate in site visits, tender meetings and pre-bid meetings as required.
• Work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents and Operations to validate construction methodologies and estimated production rates.
• Prepare detailed bid summaries and estimates for management review.
• Assist with developing bid strategies that balance competitiveness, risk and profitability.
• Prepare and submit tenders in accordance with project requirements and deadlines.
• Maintain organized estimating files, quantity take-offs, pricing information and historical cost data.
• Assist with the handover of successful projects from estimating to operations.
• Maintain current knowledge of labour, equipment, material and subcontractor pricing.
• Review historical project performance and costs to continuously improve estimating accuracy.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of estimating databases, production rates and cost information.

Experience & Qualifications

• 3 to 5+ years of estimating experience in heavy civil construction, earthworks, mining, oil sands or related industries.
• Strong understanding of heavy civil earthworks and construction methodologies.
• Experience estimating large-scale excavation, hauling, grading, embankments, reclamation and site development.
• Strong understanding of heavy equipment operations, including excavators, dozers, graders, loaders and haul trucks.
• Ability to develop and evaluate equipment production rates and cycle times.
• Strong ability to read and interpret civil drawings, specifications and tender documents.
• Experience completing detailed quantity take-offs.
• Strong understanding of Alberta construction practices and local subcontractor and supplier markets.
• Strong Microsoft Office Suite skills (Calendar, Outlook, Excel, OneDrive).
• Experience with B2W Estimate is considered a strong asset.
• Experience with Microsoft Project is considered an asset.
• CET (Certified Engineering Technologist) designation is considered an asset.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites as required.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for a self-starter who takes ownership of their work and can manage the estimating process with minimal supervision. The successful candidate will be resourceful, practical and comfortable finding solutions rather than waiting to be told what to do.

Work Location

This position will be based out of either our Edmonton or Fort McMurray office. Travel to project sites and pre-bid meetings may be required.