Pre‑Construction Engineer and Estimator

Help Shape Rail Projects Before the First Spike Is Driven.

If you’re a detail‑oriented engineering or estimating professional who enjoys building projects from the ground up — from concept through bid and into execution — this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact on major rail infrastructure projects. Universal Rail Solutions Inc. is seeking a Pre‑Construction Engineer and Estimator to support early project development, cost planning, constructability reviews, and bid preparation across rail and heavy civil work in Eastern Canada.

Who We Are

At Universal Rail Solutions Inc., we keep Canada’s railways moving — safely, efficiently, and sustainably. We work coast‑to‑coast across every railway sector and project size, delivering service excellence and exceptional value to our clients. Within our team, we call this Doing It Right!

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Lead Estimator, the Pre‑Construction Engineer and Estimator plays a key role in the early phases of project development. You will support conceptual design, quantity take‑offs, cost estimating, constructability reviews, and coordination with internal teams, clients, and subcontractors. This role helps ensure projects are accurately scoped, competitively priced, and constructible before construction begins — supporting confident decision‑making and successful project delivery.

What You’ll Do

• Analyze tender documents, contract requirements, and project scope; prepare risk analysis for internal pre‑bid meetings
• Prepare detailed quantity take‑offs and cost estimates from drawings, specifications, and pre‑construction documents
• Perform constructability reviews to identify risks, design gaps, and value‑engineering opportunities
• Develop preliminary project schedules, phasing plans, and construction logistics strategies
• Analyze historical cost data, market conditions, and subcontractor pricing to support competitive and realistic estimates
• Prepare cost breakdowns, bid summaries, and recommendations for senior management review
• Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing for budget and tender submissions
• Participate in pre‑bid meetings, site visits, and client presentations
• Maintain organized estimate files, assumptions, and supporting documentation
• Prepare formal estimate reports, cost models, and budget updates for leadership and clients
• Track design changes and update estimates accordingly
• Participate in bid closings, tender reviews, and estimate presentations
• Lead the handover process to Operations once a contract is awarded

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field
• 3–7 years of experience in estimating or procurement within the rail or heavy civil construction industry
• Strong understanding of rail construction methods, materials, and equipment
• Solid knowledge of CCDC and CCA contract structures
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and estimating software (e.g., B2W or similar)
• Working knowledge of scheduling tools such as Primavera P6 or MS Project
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, blueprints, and technical schematics
• Knowledge of North American railway standards and owners (e.g., AREMA, APTA, TCRP, Transport Canada, Metrolinx, CN, CPKC, VIA Rail)
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Experience with cost control, budgeting, and value engineering is an asset
• Valid driver’s licence, clean driver’s abstract, and willingness to travel to project sites as needed
• Bilingual (English / French) is an asset

Primarily office‑based with occasional visits to active rail construction sites Exposure to outdoor environments and construction zones Flexible working hours aligned with bid deadlines and project demands

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• Opportunities for growth and development within a national rail organization
• A collaborative team culture where Safety is always the top priority

Apply Today!

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Universal Rail Solutions Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.