Overview
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.
This group performs 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 coordinate construction projects and prepare construction progress schedules.
Estimators may specialize in estimating costs for structural, electrical or mechanical construction projects.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$60,170
$83,925
$162,218
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
732expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
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.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certifications are optional to practice as Construction estimators in B.C.
- Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC Registration - Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors Certification
Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC Registration - Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a civil engineering technologist, technician, or in a related occupation in B.C., you may choose to register with Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia. Eligibility is achieved through completion of an accredited diploma program and 24 months of progressive work experience, 12 of which must be at the technologist profile or higher in a Canadian work environment.
Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a construction estimator in B.C., you may need to be registered with the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors. Eligibility is achieved by completing an accredited educational program and writing the required examinations.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.