Cost Engineer - Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend

A global professional services company with over 22,000 people in more than 60 countries. Working with clients across real estate, infrastructure, energy and natural resources, we transform together to deliver outcomes that improve people’s lives.

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. Turner & Townsend and CBRE work together to provide clients with the premier programme, project and cost management offering worldwide.

Cost Engineer – support a global technology client on a large‑scale, multi‑phase data center construction program. Help develop cost estimates, analyze data, support cost reviews, and assist with commercial processes across the project lifecycle.

Ideal candidate has strong analytical skills, excellent organization and a desire to grow expertise in estimating, benchmarking, and cost controls within mission‑critical construction.

Remote candidates are acceptable, with preference for Chicago, IL or Indianapolis, IN for ease of in‑person interaction. Monthly travel (2–3 days per trip) 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, where applicable.

• Ability to travel to the St. Louis, MO area project site for 2–3 days at a time.
• 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 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 client needs.

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

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

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