Cost Engineer - Data Center Construction

Company Description

Turner & Townsend is a global professional services company with over 22,000 people in more than 60 countries.

Working with our clients across real estate, infrastructure, energy and natural resources, we transform together delivering outcomes that improve people’s lives. Working in partnership makes it possible to deliver the world’s most impactful projects and programmes as we turn challenge into opportunity and complexity into success.

Our capabilities include programme, project, cost, asset and commercial management, controls and performance, procurement and supply chain, net zero and digital solutions.

We are majority-owned by CBRE Group, Inc., the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm, with our partners holding a significant minority interest. Turner & Townsend and CBRE work together to provide clients with the premier programme, project and cost management offering in markets around the world.

Turner & Townsend is seeking a driven Cost Engineer to support a global technology client on a large‑scale, multi‑phase data center construction program. As part of an industry‑leading team, you will help develop cost estimates, analyze data, support cost reviews, and assist with commercial processes across the project lifecycle.

This role is ideal for someone with strong analytical skills, excellent organization, and an eagerness to grow their expertise in estimating, benchmarking, and cost controls within mission‑critical construction.

Candidates may be based remotely, with preference for Chicago, IL or Indianapolis, IN for ease of in‑person client interaction. Regular travel to the project site near St. Louis, MO is required.

• Track and organize cost review and estimate requests submitted by the client.
• Analyze existing cost data and assist in producing benchmark information.
• Conduct quantity take‑offs from drawings and specifications.
• Support development of cost estimates and budgets under the guidance of senior team members.
• Reconcile actual costs against contract pricing to verify accuracy.
• Provide inputs into value engineering exercises.
• Prepare weekly cost and progress reporting for the client.
• Assist with reviewing contractor pricing and meeting with contractors to discuss cost submissions.
• Issue RFIs, follow up on responses, and maintain organized documentation.
• Provide support with procurement‑related activities and contractor communications.
• Maintain version control, documentation, and cost files in accordance with internal processes.
• Prepare documents, spreadsheets, and presentations as required by the team.
• Support adherence to Turner & Townsend Business Management Systems (BMS).
• Collaborate with estimating, cost controls, and project management teams to ensure coordinated delivery.
• SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.

• Ability to travel to the St. Louis, MO project area as needed.
• 2–3 years post‑graduate experience in a cost, estimating, or project controls role on data centers, commercial, healthcare, high‑tech, or similar large projects.
• Strong passion for construction, cost analysis, and numbers.
• Strong analytical abilities and advanced proficiency in spreadsheets (Excel or Google Sheets).
• Experience with estimating or take‑off software (e.g., On‑Screen Takeoff, Revit, Bluebeam).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive).
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Strong communication skills and comfort working with contractors and client representatives.

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

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Turner & Townsend is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and actively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.

Please find out more about us at