Senior Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor - Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend$100K — $180K *
Real Estate & Construction
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in construction management, cost management, quantity surveying, engineering, or a related field.
  • 5-7 years of relevant experience in construction cost management.
  • Experience with complex, multi-building construction programs, preferably campus-style.
  • Proven track record on fast-paced projects with phased delivery and multiple stakeholders.
  • Deep understanding of cost drivers and commercial frameworks in mega-scale construction.
  • Preferably RICS accredited or actively pursuing accreditation.
  • Experience in construction consultancy is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Estimate and negotiate change orders throughout the project's lifecycle.
  • Provide and present detailed cost planning and final cost estimates.
  • Collaborate with design teams and contractors on developing cost estimates.
  • Reconcile changes and validate cost data in partnership with general contractors.
  • Communicate regularly with contractors and clients for updates and estimates.
  • Prepare executive summaries on contractor submissions and cost impacts.
  • Advise on engineering priorities based on cost analysis.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package including health and wellness programs.
  • Flexible working environment that promotes work-life balance.
  • Opportunities for professional development and growth.
  • Mentorship and team development culture.
  • Participation in a collaborative and innovative work environment.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Turner & Townsend is seeking an experienced Senior Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor to support a large data center development program in the Columbus, Ohio area. This role will serve as a key day-to-day client interface on a major, multi-building hyperscale construction project. The program includes significant phased development, substantial construction volume, and coordination across design teams, contractors, and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.

The successful candidate will bring strong communication skills, confidence in a client-facing environment, and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively. This position requires leadership, sound judgement, and a commitment to delivering high-quality cost management services aligned with Turner & Townsend's standards and values.

Responsibilities
  • Estimating and negotiating change orders throughout the construction lifecycle.
  • Provide estimate and cost planning, including producing and presenting final cost plans.
  • Review and participate with design teams and general contractors in developing cost estimates.
  • Reconcile changes and support the general contractor to ensure accurate cost data.
  • Communicate with the contractor and client PM to gather updates and produce revised cost estimates.
  • Prepare written commentary on contractor submissions, including executive summaries.
  • Coordinate cost information from design teams, subcontractors, and suppliers.
  • Provide guidance to help inform engineering priorities based on cost impacts.
  • Work proactively with minimal supervision to resolve scheduling and coordination issues.
  • Manage cost checks and valuations on large-scale projects; ensure timely, accurate validation.
  • Participate in post-contract cost variance reviews and change control processes.
  • Oversee contingency usage, cost impacts, and commitment tracking.
  • Prepare funding data and support value engineering sessions with stakeholders.
  • Develop cost plans and estimates through all design phases, with updates at key milestones.
  • Provide commercial guidance for design optioneering and value engineering exercises.
  • Review contractor and subcontractor pricing; lead client-side commercial negotiations.
  • Perform quantity surveying, cost control, and change management duties throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Ensure post-contract cost variances, audits, and valuations are managed effectively.
  • Produce monthly cost reports for client presentation.
  • Ensure timely negotiation and agreement of final accounts.
  • Compile built cost data for benchmarking.
  • Mentor and develop team members; support strong delivery culture.
  • Track fees, margins, and forecasts in internal systems; support financial management for commissions.
  • Implement Turner & Townsend methodologies and delivery tools across the team.
  • Act as a role model for a one-business culture and high-quality service delivery.
  • 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 a related field.
  • A minimum of 5-7 years' relevant experience in construction cost management.
  • Experience supporting large, complex, multi-building construction programs, preferably campus-style developments.
  • Experience working on fast-paced projects with phased delivery and multiple stakeholder groups.
  • Strong understanding of cost drivers and commercial frameworks commonly associated with ground-up mega-scale construction.
  • RICS accreditation (or working toward it) preferred.
  • Experience leading cost management on medium to large construction projects of moderate to high complexity.
  • Construction consultancy experience strongly preferred.
  • Solid understanding of procurement routes, value management, and value engineering.
  • Excellent communication skills.


Additional Information

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

The salary range for this role is $100K-$180K. 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

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.

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.

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