Associate Director - Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor - Construction Management

Turner & Townsend$150K — $185K *
Real Estate & Construction
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or related field.
  • Extensive experience in cost management for large-scale construction projects.
  • Strong skills in cost planning, budgeting, and financial control.
  • Ability to lead commercial strategy and execution across projects.
  • Experience with procurement strategies and various contract types.
  • Understanding of local market dynamics with established industry contacts.
  • Proficiency in cost management tools and Excel-based reporting.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as the senior commercial lead for multiple projects with accurate cost reporting.
  • Oversee change management processes and negotiate change orders.
  • Build strong relationships with contractors, stakeholders, and clients.
  • Conduct forensic cost reviews and valuations for time-sensitive projects.
  • Lead contingency tracking and cost impact analysis.
  • Prepare funding data and facilitate value engineering sessions.
  • Mentor junior team members to support their development.

Benefits

  • Collaborative and dynamic work environment focused on growth.
  • Opportunities for professional development and mentorship.
  • Engagement in high-profile construction projects with significant impact.
  • Access to advanced cost management tools and technologies.
  • Flexibility in on-site work based on client needs.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Turner & Townsend is seeking a highly experienced Associate Director to join our San Francisco Bay Area Cost Management team. In this leadership role, you'll guide the commercial delivery of complex construction projects for high-profile clients, while mentoring team members and driving strategic outcomes across all phases of the project lifecycle. The ideal candidate brings deep regional insight, strong professional relationships, and a well-rounded background in both pre- and post-contract cost management.

Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the senior commercial lead across multiple projects, ensuring accurate and timely cost reporting at both project and portfolio levels.
  • Oversee change management processes, including negotiation and resolution of change orders throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with general contractors, client representatives, and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and smooth execution.
  • Conduct forensic cost reviews and valuations on high-value, time-sensitive projects.
  • Extract and analyze data from multiple sources to support strategic decision-making and portfolio-level insights.
  • Lead contingency tracking, cost impact analysis, and commitment management.
  • Prepare funding data and facilitate value engineering sessions with senior stakeholders.
  • Provide estimating support during design development, including quantity take-offs, cost benchmarking, and pricing validation.
  • Review contractor and subcontractor pricing, lead negotiations, and prepare bid comparisons and funding recommendations.
  • Oversee forecasting, cash flow reporting, and commercial risk management.
  • Drive continuous improvement of cost management processes and procedures.
  • Manage cost auditing, validation, and monthly reporting across multiple projects.
  • Negotiate and finalize accounts to ensure maximum client value.
  • Support project close-out and compile as-built cost data for benchmarking.
  • Mentor and support junior team members, contributing to talent development and team growth.
  • SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.


Qualifications

  • Must be available to work from our San Francisco office at least three days per week.
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Extensive experience in cost management across all phases of construction from early estimating through close-out on large-scale, or complex projects.
  • Strong background in cost planning, budgeting, and financial control, with the ability to lead commercial strategy and execution.
  • Skilled in reviewing and validating contractor estimates, bids, and change orders.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience with various procurement strategies and contract types.
  • Familiarity with sectors such as commercial, data centers, high-tech manufacturing, or mission-critical environments.
  • Strong understanding of local market dynamics, with established contacts and experience navigating regional construction practices.
  • RICS accreditation (or working toward it) is a plus.
  • Proficient in cost management tools and Excel-based reporting.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.


Additional Information

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

The salary range for this full-time role is $150K-$185K 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.

About Turner & Townsend

Turner & Townsend Careers

Joining Turner & Townsend offers a unique opportunity to contribute to some of the most exciting projects worldwide. As a global leader in professional services, Turner & Townsend is at the forefront of transforming the industry through expertise, innovation, and leadership.

Explore Job Opportunities

Turner & Townsend is constantly seeking skilled professionals eager to drive innovation and lead industry standards. With a variety of job opportunities available, candidates can find positions that match their skills and career aspirations. Explore employment options that span across critical sectors such as construction, project management, and consultancy.

Experience Professional Growth

Turner & Townsend is committed to the professional growth and continuous development of its team members. The company supports career advancement through robust training programs, including leadership development and diversity training, ensuring every team member has the tools and knowledge to succeed.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career journey, Turner & Townsend offers internship programs that provide a rich learning environment. Interns gain hands-on experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and contributing to impactful projects. These internships are a gateway to full-time employment and a flourishing career within the company.

Cultivating a Diverse and Inclusive Culture

Turner & Townsend prides itself on fostering an inclusive culture where diversity is celebrated. The company believes that a diverse workforce enhances creativity and drives innovation. Employees from various backgrounds are encouraged to share their unique perspectives, promoting a collaborative and supportive workplace.

Benefits and Employee Wellbeing

Understanding the importance of a work-life balance, Turner & Townsend offers comprehensive benefits designed to support the wellbeing of its team. Benefits include health care, flexible working conditions, and competitive retirement plans, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for employees.

Join the Team

Turner & Townsend is hiring! Search open positions that align with your professional skills and interests. The company is looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and get ready to join a team where your contributions will be valued and your career will flourish.

Networking and Career Development

Turner & Townsend encourages continuous networking and professional development. By participating in industry conferences and company-hosted events, employees can build valuable relationships and stay current with industry trends.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest from Turner & Townsend: - **Read Careers Blog**: Gain insights from experts and stay informed about the latest company news and industry trends. - **Job Alert Emails**: Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Turner & Townsend. Turner & Townsend is not just a place to work—it's a place where careers are made, innovation thrives, and opportunities abound. Join the team and be part of shaping the future of the industry.
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