Senior Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor - Korean Speaking

Turner & Townsend • $135K — $165K *
Chicago, IL 60629In-Person
Real Estate & Construction
5 - 7 years of experience
1 week ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Cost Management, Engineering, or a related construction discipline.
  • 5-7 years of experience in cost management or quantity surveying within the construction industry.
  • Experience with mission-critical or technically complex projects is required.
  • Deep trade and package-level experience, including major construction trades management and negotiations.
  • Preferred experience in a construction consultancy environment.
  • Understanding of procurement routes and cost planning methodologies is essential.
  • Professional proficiency in Korean and English required for stakeholder communication.
  • Strong communication skills for client-facing interactions.
  • RICS accreditation or progress toward chartership preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Act as the primary commercial and cost interface among client, design team, and contractor.
  • Prepare and present cost plans, estimates, and cash flow forecasts.
  • Estimate and negotiate change orders through various project phases.
  • Review cost estimates with design services and general contractor teams.
  • Coordinate cost information from multiple sources including designers and subcontractors.
  • Regularly communicate with contractor and project management teams for accurate cost updates.
  • Prepare written commentary on contractor submissions, including cost summaries.
  • Resolve cost and schedule issues with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.
  • Lead value engineering and cost optimization discussions with stakeholders.
  • Contribute commercial input into design and procurement strategies.

Benefits

  • Eligibility for performance-based bonuses.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans.
  • Opportunities for professional development and tuition reimbursement for further education.
  • Supportive work environment with a focus on team collaboration and mentorship.
  • Possibility of career advancement within a global construction consultancy.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Turner & Townsend are seeking an experienced Senior Cost Manager and/or Quantity Surveyor to serve as the primary day-to-day client interface on a large-scale, technically complex construction program in the Midwest. This role is responsible for ensuring client objectives are met through the delivery of a high-quality, value-added cost management service across the full project lifecycle.

The position operates in a highly collaborative, multinational project environment and requires strong communication skills, commercial leadership, and independence. You will play a key role in embedding Turner & Townsend's values while delivering best-in-class cost management outcomes.

Responsibilities:
  • Act as the key day-to-day commercial and cost interface between the client, design team, and contractor.
  • Prepare and present cost plans, estimates, and cashflow forecasts at key design and construction milestones.
  • Estimate, assess, and negotiate change orders throughout early works, major construction, and close-out phases.
  • Review and participate with the design services team and general contractor in the development and reconciliation of cost estimates.
  • Coordinate all sources of cost information, including quantities from designers, subcontractor pricing, and supplier data.
  • Communicate regularly with the contractor and owner's project management team to gather status information and prepare accurate cost updates.
  • Prepare written commentary on contractor submissions, including executive cost summaries.
  • Inform and influence engineering and design priorities based on cost, risk, and value considerations.
  • Proactively resolve cost and schedule issues with minimal supervision in a fast-paced construction environment.
  • Manage valuations, cost checks, contingency management, commitment tracking, and cost impact logs.
  • Participate in post-contract cost variance analysis and formal change control processes.
  • Lead value engineering and cost optimization workshops with key stakeholders.
  • Provide commercial input into design optioneering and procurement strategies.
  • Review contractor and subcontractor pricing and lead negotiations to achieve fair and competitive outcomes for the client.
  • Produce accurate monthly cost reports and funding data presentations.
  • Ensure final accounts are negotiated and agreed in a timely and compliant manner.
  • Maintain robust cost auditing, validation, and benchmarking records.
  • Track financial performance, fee forecasts, and margin levels using internal systems.
  • Implement and maintain Turner & Townsend business management systems and delivery methodologies.
  • Identify, coach, and mentor junior team members and contribute to a collaborative, high-performance culture.
  • Demonstrate leadership aligned with Turner & Townsend's values, service standards, and governance requirements.
  • SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.

Project / Program Environment
  • Large-scale, multi-year construction program with significant early works and foundation packages followed by major vertical construction.
  • Complex site conditions requiring close coordination between cost, schedule, and design disciplines.
  • High expectations for cost certainty, change control, and stakeholder communication throughout the project lifecycle.


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Cost Management, Engineering, or a related construction discipline.
  • Minimum 5-7 years of relevant experience in a cost management or quantity surveying role within the construction industry.
  • Proven experience delivering cost management services on mission-critical or technically complex projects is required.
  • Demonstrated deep trade and package-level experience, including managing, pricing, and negotiating major construction trades.
  • Prior experience working within a construction consultancy environment is strongly preferred.
  • Solid understanding of procurement routes, cost planning methodologies, value management, and value engineering.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, large-scale construction environment with minimal supervision.
  • Professional working proficiency in Korean and English is required, as this role involves direct communication with Korean-speaking project stakeholders and documentation.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with confidence operating in a client-facing role.
  • RICS accreditation or active progress toward chartership is preferred.


Additional Information

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

The base salary range for this role is $135K-$165K 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.
Learn more about Turner & Townsend
Industry
Real Estate & Construction
* Ladders Estimates

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