Senior Cost Estimator - Data Center Construction

  • Full-time
  • Department: Real estate

Company Description

From the inception of a project through to completion and beyond, Turner & Townsend help to deliver the outcomes that matter through transformational programs covering the full spectrum of consultancy, project delivery and post-project operations.

With offices located globally, you're never far away from our services. Working from 133 offices in 49 countries, we make the difference to projects across the real estateinfrastructure and natural resources sectors worldwide.

Our team is dynamic, innovative and client-focused, supported by an inclusive and fun company culture. Our clients value our proactive approach, depth of expertise, integrity and the quality we deliver. As a result, our people get to enjoy working on some of the most exciting projects in the world.

Job Description

Turner & Townsend are looking for a Senior Cost Estimator to join our team, and work with a key tech client on large-scale data center construction projects. 

The role involves managing and overseeing all cost-related aspects of the construction process, from initial budgeting to final project completion. The ideal candidate will be responsible for estimating, tracking, and controlling construction costs, ensuring that the data center is delivered on time and within budget. 

To be successful in this position you must have consulting experience, great communication skills and be comfortable operating in a client-facing role.


Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with project teams to understand scope, requirements, and design specifications for the data center construction.
  • Develop detailed, accurate cost estimates for various construction phases, including  site preparation, structural, infrastructure, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing.
  • Prepare cost breakdown structures, material take-offs, and quantity surveys based on project plans and specifications.
  • Conduct value engineering to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or schedule.
  • Advise on procurement strategies and assist in vendor and contractor selection to meet cost and quality targets.
  • Monitor project costs throughout the construction phase, including labor, materials, and equipment costs, and ensure adherence to budget.
  • Review and approve contractor change orders, ensuring accuracy and appropriate justification.
  • Regularly update cost forecasts and provide timely reports to senior management, highlighting potential risks and recommending mitigation strategies.
  • Work closely with project managers to manage schedules and avoid delays or cost overruns.
  • Implement cost control procedures to track project performance against budget, and provide corrective actions as needed.
  • Finalize cost reports and ensure that all financial records are accurate and in compliance with contractual agreements.
  • Participate in post-project reviews, identifying lessons learned and providing insights for future projects.
  • Assist in the preparation of final accounting and reporting for the completed data center.

Qualifications

 

  • Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 7 years' experience in cost estimation for large-scale construction projects, with at least 5 years working on data center, or relatable projects.
  • Familiarity with data center design and construction, including specialized systems such as HVAC, electrical (MEP).
  • Proven track record of estimating and managing costs on multi-million-dollar construction projects.
  • Professional certifications such as Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCE/A) or Associate in Project Management (APM) are advantageous.
  • Experience with cost estimating software (e.g., CostX, Bluebeam, Procore, Buildertrend, or similar) and Microsoft Excel.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to create accurate cost estimates and identify cost-saving opportunities.
  • Exceptional knowledge of construction industry standards, labor rates, materials pricing, and subcontractor bidding processes.
  • Advanced understanding of construction contracts, bid proposals, change orders, and project risk management.
  • Strong communication skills, capable of presenting complex cost data to various stakeholders, including project teams, contractors, and senior management.
  • Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders, architects, engineers, contractors, and vendors to ensure accurate cost assessments and project success.

Additional Information

The salary range for this full-time role is $135K-$160K per year. Ranges are determined by role and level and represent a good faith effort to provide a fair and equitable salary. This range is a reflection of base salary only, not of a total compensation package. Please note Turner & Townsend reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range, depending on candidate’s experience and qualifications.

*On-site presence and requirements may change depending on our client's needs

Our inspired people share our vision and mission. We provide a great place to work, where each person has the opportunity and voice to affect change.

We want our people to succeed both in work and life. To support this we promote a healthy, productive and flexible working environment that respects work-life balance. 

Turner & Townsend is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and actively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.

Please find out more about us at www.turnerandtownsend.com/

Turner & Townsend does not accept any speculative or unsolicited CV’s that have been sent to our internal recruitment team or hiring managers from agencies outside of our preferred supplier list or that have not followed due process. Any speculative or unsolicited CV’s will be treated as a direct application.


All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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Any unsolicited resumes/CVs submitted through our website or to Turner & Townsend personal e-mail accounts, are considered property of Turner & Townsend and are not subject to payment of agency fees. In order to be an authorised Recruitment Agency/Search Firm for Turner & Townsend, there must be a formal written agreement in place and the agency must be invited, by the Recruitment Team, to submit candidates for review.