Senior Cost Estimator - Construction Management

From the inception of a project through to completion and beyond, Turner & Townsend help to deliver the outcomes that matter through transformational programs covering the full spectrum of consultancy, project delivery and post‑project operations. With offices located globally, you’re never far away from our services. Working from 133 offices in 49 countries, we make the difference to projects across the real estate, infrastructure and natural resources sectors worldwide.

Our team is dynamic, innovative and client‑focused, supported by an inclusive and fun company culture.

Senior Cost Manager / Estimator – Los Angeles

Turner & Townsend are looking for an experienced and highly skilled Senior Cost Manager / Estimator to join our team in Los Angeles, and lead cost management efforts for a variety of complex and high‑profile construction projects. These projects will span multiple sectors, including data centers, life sciences, commercial real estate, and healthcare. The Senior Cost Manager / Estimator will be responsible for managing project budgets, developing accurate cost estimates, overseeing cost control measures, and providing strategic leadership to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.

To be successful in this position you must have consulting experience, great communication skills and be comfortable operating in a client‑facing role.

• Lead the preparation of detailed, accurate cost estimates for projects in the pre‑construction phase, including material take‑offs, labor costs, and equipment costs.
• Develop and manage comprehensive project budgets, including contingency and risk allowances.
• Utilize historical data, industry benchmarks, and market trends to inform cost projections and ensure accuracy.
• Provide cost estimates for all phases of a project, from early conceptual design through to final construction.
• Develop and implement cost control procedures to monitor and manage project financial performance.
• Track actual costs against estimated costs throughout the project lifecycle, preparing regular cost reports and forecasting potential budget overruns.
• Review and approve change orders, ensuring that any cost impacts are accurately reflected in project budgets.
• Proactively identify cost‑saving opportunities and recommend value engineering strategies to clients and project teams.
• Lead the bidding process, including the preparation of bid packages and the evaluation of subcontractor proposals.
• Negotiate terms with subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers to ensure the best value and compliance with project specifications.
• Analyze subcontractor bids and proposals to assess cost competitiveness and ensure alignment with project scope and quality requirements.
• Identify potential cost risks and develop strategies for mitigating financial exposure throughout the project lifecycle.
• Participate in project risk assessments and provide insight into potential financial risks and opportunities for cost savings.
• Collaborate with project managers to ensure cost risks are effectively communicated and managed.
• Lead and mentor junior estimators and cost management staff, providing guidance and support in developing accurate estimates, cost reports, and cost control practices.
• Foster a collaborative team environment, working closely with architects, engineers, and project managers to ensure alignment between cost estimates, budgets, and project goals.
• Provide strategic oversight and leadership on cost management for multiple concurrent projects, ensuring consistency and quality of work.
• Prepare and deliver regular cost and financial reports to senior leadership, project teams, and clients, providing clear updates on budget status, potential risks, and cost forecasts.
• Communicate effectively with clients, stakeholders, and project teams to manage expectations and deliver timely information on project cost performance.
• Stay informed of industry trends, market conditions, and material costs that could impact project budgets, particularly in the data center, life sciences, healthcare, and commercial real estate sectors.
• Maintain and update cost databases…