COST ESTIMATOR (RE-POST)

The City of Richmond is committed to be the most appealing, livable, well-managed community in Canada, a vision that is only made possible by developing our most valuable asset – our people. This is a great opportunity to join our team and shape our community. The City of Richmond offers competitive pay programs, comprehensive benefits and attractive incentives. If you are looking to make a difference, and to share our vision, then please apply.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Experienced in cost estimating and managing projects or functions, including managing budget requiring accountability for expenditures and revenues.
• Demonstrated decision making skills and the ability to make recommendations to achieve short and long term project goals.
• Ability to compile and analyze data from various external and internal sources and finalize cost estimates and make recommendations on scope, schedule, budget and resources.
• Ability to effectively interpret and communicate technical or specialized information to colleagues (e.g.: policies and programs to colleagues across the organization) and external contacts (e.g.: reports).
• Ability to effectively provide technical guidance, both internally and externally, and in a manner that secures cooperation from others.
• Effective in providing direction to others including assigning tasks, allocating work, and monitoring work, mentoring, listening, and responding to the concerns of others.
• Ability to effectively manage and problem solve construction related projects that routinely involve difficult, specialized, or emotionally charged situations.
• Ability to assess data and make complex decisions to achieve project goals.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to work accurately and effectively to meet deadlines.
• Ability to lead initiatives to evaluate effectiveness of services provided.
• Experienced managing the day to day operation and cost control of projects.
• Demonstrated meeting facilitation and presentation skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills are required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Diploma of Engineering/Engineering Technology with preference for Civil Engineering, or CEC certification through the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors
• A minimum of 2-5 years related experience preferably in municipal civil engineering cost estimating and project management
• Eligibility for AScT certification as a Technologist (1 year minimum following completion of diploma)
• Supplementary project management and estimating courses and/or experience preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• A Valid Class 5 Driver’s Licence for the Province of British Columbia.

Cost Estimating

• Prepare capital program budget cost estimates for various City departments including project feasibility assessment and constructability.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for City crews construction projects.
• Prepare tender bid summaries and manage cost summary data base.
• Review and update of standard utility installation rates for City forces construction.
• Evaluate and review new construction methods, procedures and materials and research varying cost factors.
• Prepare competitive bids through the City tendering process.
• Develop and update unit rates.
• Unit rate tracking and development of rates published in policies, bylaws and other City documents.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for various City departments including Engineering, Public Works, Parks, Transportation and Facilities.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for Local Area Services Program, Neighbourhood Improvement Charges and other City programs.
• Respond to project related cost and financial enquiries.

Project Management

• Assist with project management and contract administration of City forces, contractors and consultants for capital projects with focus on defined scope, schedule, budget and resources.
• Provide recommendations to resolve various issues which affect scope, schedule, budget and resources.
• Recognize funding issues and identify additional funding and/or scope reduction alternatives where required.
• Prepare reports to senior management regarding award recommendations and funding. Communicate with consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, other stakeholders (both internal and external) and residents.
• Provide technical direction to consultants where required.
• Review and approve consultant/ contractor/ supplier/ external agency invoices.
• Prepare cost control reports and monitor design and construction processes and progress.
• Review and recommend on payment certificates.
• Provide technical assistance to other City Departments.
• Respond to enquiries from the public and resolve complaints regarding construction projects.