22303

Construction estimators

TEER 2 — College diploma, apprenticeship (2+ yrs) or supervisory

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: No
In demand in Manitoba: Yes

Classification

Natural & applied sciences

2 › 22 › 223 › 2230

Definition

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.

Main duties

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.

Example job titles

•chief estimator - construction
•construction estimator
•cost estimator - construction
•principal estimator - construction
•professional quantity surveyor
•quantity surveyor - construction

Overview

Under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, construction estimators are classified under NOC code 22303. This occupation falls under TEER 2, which means qualified professionals are eligible for Canada's Express Entry system under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Construction estimators analyze blueprints, specifications, and other documents to prepare comprehensive estimates of costs, materials, labor, and equipment required for construction projects, working closely with contractors, developers, and project managers.

According to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), individuals in this unit group perform essential duties such as estimating costs of materials, labor, and equipment, monitoring project budgets, and preparing cost audit reports. Employment requirements typically include a three-year college program in civil or construction engineering technology, or several years of experience as a qualified journeyperson in a construction trade. Certification by the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS) may be required by some employers but is not universally mandatory across all provinces.

In addition to the Express Entry system, experienced construction estimators can leverage various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) across Canada, as many provinces face labor shortages in the construction sector and actively target skilled technical professionals. Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For official and updated guidelines, please consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a regulated Canadian immigration professional.

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.