Senior Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor - Advanced Manufacturing Projects

Turner & Townsend$165K — $190K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in construction management, cost management, quantity surveying, engineering, or related field.
  • 5-7 years of cost management experience in the construction industry.
  • RICS accreditation or working towards it is preferred.
  • Experience leading cost management on medium to large construction projects.
  • Strong knowledge of construction industry technical matters including procurement routes.
  • Exceptional commercial, client-facing, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

  • Lead change order estimation and negotiations throughout the construction lifecycle.
  • Provide comprehensive cost planning, estimating, and detailed cost plans.
  • Collaborate with design teams and contractors to validate cost estimates.
  • Proactively reconcile project changes and contractor data for accuracy.
  • Act as a key client interface for updates and decision-making support.
  • Prepare written commentary on contractor submissions identifying risks and cost impacts.
  • Manage cost control processes, including variance analysis and change management.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package including health and retirement options.
  • Opportunities for professional development and mentorship.
  • Engagement with a diverse range of advanced manufacturing projects.
  • Exposure to high-tech construction environments and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Performance-driven culture that recognizes contributions.
Full Job Description
Senior Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor - Advanced Manufacturing Projects Turner & Townsend are looking for an experienced Senior Cost Manager and/or Quantity Surveyor to act as the key day-to-day client interface, delivering value-added cost management services across complex, high-tech construction projects in the San Diego area. These projects include advanced manufacturing, cleanroom environments, and technically sophisticated facilities, often delivered through phased programs requiring strong commercial oversight and coordination across multidisciplinary teams. To be successful in this role you must have strong communication skills and be comfortable operating in a client-facing environment. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, driven, and able to work both independently and collaboratively. Responsibilities: • Lead estimating and negotiating change orders throughout the construction lifecycle, ensuring alignment between scope, budget, and contract terms in technically complex environments. • Provide comprehensive cost planning and estimating services, including developing, reviewing, and presenting detailed cost plans at key project milestones. • Collaborate with design teams, engineers, and general contractors to develop and validate cost estimates across mechanical, electrical, process, and cleanroom scopes. • Reconcile project changes and proactively review contractor data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and commercial alignment. • Act as a key client interface, gathering project updates, supporting decision-making, and maintaining alignment across multiple stakeholders. • Prepare detailed written commentary and executive summaries on contractor submissions, identifying risks, gaps, and cost impacts. • Coordinate and consolidate cost information from subcontractors, suppliers, vendors, and design teams to support accurate forecasting and reporting. • Manage cost control processes including contingency utilization, cost variance analysis, and change management across multiple project phases or workstreams. • Perform detailed cost checks and valuations, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting on large-scale, high-value projects. • Support procurement activities including bid packaging, review of contractor and subcontractor pricing, bid leveling, and leading commercial negotiations. • Provide commercial input into value engineering and design optimization initiatives to improve project efficiency while maintaining technical requirements. • Produce monthly cost reports, forecasts, and funding updates, providing clear insights to senior stakeholders and client teams. • Ensure robust cost auditing, validation procedures, and final account closeout processes are consistently applied. • Maintain and contribute to benchmarking data and historical cost records to support future program planning. • Mentor and support junior team members, ensuring consistent delivery standards and professional development. • Manage financial performance across commissions, including fee forecasting, margin tracking, and utilization. • SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable. Qualifications • Bachelor's degree in construction management, cost management, quantity surveying, engineering or field related to construction. • Minimum 5-7 years of relevant experience working in a cost management role in the construction industry. • RICS accredited or working towards it is preferred. • Experience of leading cost management on medium or large sized construction projects of medium to high complexity. • Construction consultancy experience is strongly preferred. • Good knowledge of construction industry technical matters, such as different procurement routes, value management, and value engineering. • Strong commercial, client-facing, and communication skills. Additional Information On-site presence and requirements may change depending on our client's needs.* The base salary range for this role is $165K-$190K USD. This range reflects the company's good faith estimate of the base salary for this position at the time of the posting. Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, skills, qualifications, and internal equity. In addition to base salary, employees may be eligible for bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package.

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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