Estimator – Civil Construction Full Time

KLS Earthworks & Environmental is seeking a Construction Estimator with strategic influence and decision-making authority to join our team in Calgary. This role is ideal for an experienced civil construction professional with strong industry relationships, a deep understanding of earthworks and/or underground construction, and the ability to lead complex estimates from concept through submission.

Reporting to the Senior Estimator, the Estimator plays a critical role in shaping KLS’s project pipeline by delivering accurate, competitive, and strategic estimates while supporting long-term client relationships and business growth. This position is well suited for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, brings sound judgment to risk and opportunity assessment, and enjoys collaborating with operations, project teams, and industry partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of detailed, accurate estimates for civil construction projects, including earthworks and underground utilities
• Develop execution strategies, risk assessments, and assumptions for tenders
• Leverage existing industry relationships to support pricing, subcontractor engagement, and business development efforts
• Liaise with clients, consultants, subtrades, suppliers, engineers, architects, and regulatory bodies
• Review drawings, specifications, contracts, and bid documents to ensure complete scope coverage
• Evaluate subcontractor pricing and participate in negotiations
• Identify high-risk elements within estimates and propose solutions aligned with company and project objectives
• Support project handover meetings and collaborate with operations teams to ensure alignment between estimate and execution
• Assist with job cost reviews and post-project analysis to improve estimating accuracy
• Develop and implement cost-saving methods and value-engineering opportunities
• Create and maintain schedules using Microsoft Project
• Support permitting, shutdown coordination, and public notification requirements where applicable

Qualifications & Experience

• Senior-level estimating experience in civil construction, with a strong focus on earthworks and underground utilities
• Established relationships within the civil construction industry (clients, consultants, subcontractors, suppliers)
• Experience estimating both lump sum and unit rate projects
• Experience with indemnified projects
• Strong understanding of construction risk, sequencing, and execution planning
• Ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office; Microsoft Project experience required
• Knowledge of HeavyBid and Vista Viewpoint considered an asset
• AutoCAD Civil 3D experience considered an asset
• Experience with City of Calgary permitting, temporary shutdowns, and public notifications considered an asset
• Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
• Willingness to work extended hours, including occasional evenings or weekends, as required by bid schedules

About KLS Earthworks & Environmental

Established in 1990, KLS Earthworks & Environmental is a Calgary-based, family-rooted company and a leader in excavation, earthworks, and environmental construction across Western Canada. We are built on a foundation of safety and deliver time- and cost-saving solutions through our proven processes, state-of-the-art equipment, and highly skilled team.

Our Core Values Guide Everything We Do

• Help First
• Hungry
• Willing to Learn
• Committed

Application Details

If you meet the qualifications and are interested in joining a growth-focused organization, please submit your resume.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.