Associate Director - Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor - Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend • $100K — $130K *
Atlanta, GA 30349In-Person
Real Estate & Construction
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or related field; graduate degree preferred.
  • 8-10+ years experience in cost management or project controls in the construction industry, specifically on large-scale data centers or related projects.
  • Experience in construction consultancy with a strong client-facing delivery track record.
  • In-depth understanding of MEP systems and large-scale infrastructure requirements.
  • Expertise in budgeting, financial reporting, and cost control systems, with proficiency in Earned Value Management (EVM).
  • Proficient with industry-standard cost management tools and software like CostX, Oracle, Excel, and Primavera.
  • RICS accreditation or equivalent certification preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Lead end-to-end cost management for hyperscale data center programs, aligning scope, budget, and schedule.
  • Develop and maintain detailed cost plans, estimates, and forecasts using benchmarks and technical documentation.
  • Manage change control processes, including negotiation of change orders and variance tracking.
  • Oversee contractor pricing reviews and advise on procurement strategies and capital planning.
  • Coordinate with scheduling teams to align cost forecasts with project timelines.
  • Serve as the primary contact for commercial status reporting and stakeholder updates.
  • Conduct cost risk analysis and monitor market trends related to pricing and labor availability.
  • Mentor junior staff, promote a high-performance culture, and identify process improvements.

Benefits

  • Opportunities for career development and mentorship within a collaborative team environment.
  • Access to industry-standard tools and software for enhanced work efficiency.
  • Participation in strategic decision-making processes at a senior level.
  • Involvement in diverse projects beyond just data centers, including high-tech and industrial sectors.
  • Exposure to networking opportunities through proposals and industry events.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Turner & Townsend is seeking an experienced Associate Director level Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor to join our team and provide expert cost management services on a large-scale, mission-critical data center program.

This is a client-facing leadership role requiring exceptional communication skills and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

In this significant position, you will provide strategic leadership and direction, ensuring successful delivery of cost management services while embedding and promoting Turner & Townsend's purpose, values, and vision. You will manage both internal and external stakeholders, driving collaboration and accountability across the project lifecycle.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead end-to-end cost management across all project phases, ensuring alignment with scope, budget, and schedule for hyperscale data center programs and other sectors.
  • Develop and maintain detailed cost plans, estimates, and forecasts using industry benchmarks and technical documentation.
  • Manage change control: review and negotiate change orders, track post-contract variances, and ensure robust commercial governance.
  • Oversee contractor and subcontractor pricing reviews, scope validation, and procurement strategy development; advise on contracting and procurement approaches and support program-level capital planning.
  • Coordinate closely with scheduling teams to integrate cost forecasts with project timelines and milestones.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for commercial status reporting; produce and present monthly cost reports, executive summaries, and financial updates to stakeholders.
  • Take a lead role interfacing with clients, stakeholders, and consultants at all project stages; maintain excellent communication and build strong relationships with clients, vendors, and project teams.
  • Drive cost risk analysis, scenario planning, and sensitivity testing; monitor market trends and provide insights on escalation, labor availability, and material pricing.
  • Develop strategies for cost optimization and value engineering to enhance outcomes and reduce lifecycle costs.
  • Set and track performance via KPIs and critical success factors; prepare and deliver presentations to senior leadership.
  • Manage financial performance using internal systems to track margins, forecasts, and reporting; implement and maintain Business Management Systems (BMS) and company delivery methodologies to ensure best practice.
  • Identify opportunities to improve cost management processes, templates, and tools; champion knowledge management by capturing lessons learned and key data.
  • Provide strong leadership with a clear strategy and ambition for the team; mentor and develop junior staff, conduct performance reviews, and foster a high-performance, collaborative culture.
  • Act as a brand ambassador; develop market understanding, build a pipeline of opportunities, and identify cross-selling and business generation opportunities.
  • Participate in proposals/RFP responses and attend networking events to expand market presence and relationships.
  • SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field; graduate degree preferred.
  • 8-10+ years of experience in cost management or project controls within the construction industry, ideally on large-scale, mission-critical projects (e.g., data centers, high-tech, industrial).
  • Proven experience in construction consultancy and client-facing delivery.
  • Strong understanding of MEP systems, resilience requirements, and campus-scale infrastructure.
  • Expertise in budgeting, financial reporting, cost control systems, Earned Value Management (EVM), and procurement strategies.
  • Proficiency with industry-standard cost management tools and software (e.g., CostX, Oracle, Excel, Primavera).
  • RICS accreditation or equivalent certification (or progress toward certification) highly desirable.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, highly organized, and able to manage multiple priorities under pressure.


Additional Information

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

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.
Learn more about Turner & Townsend
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Real Estate & Construction
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