Lead Cost Manager - Data Center Construction

Lead Cost Manager - Data Center Construction at Turner & Townsend

Join to apply for the Lead Cost Manager - Data Center Construction role at Turner & Townsend.

$160,000 – $185,000 per year

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

Lead Cost Manager to oversee cost management for a large‑scale, mission‑critical data center construction program. This leadership role requires advanced technical expertise, strategic thinking, and the ability to guide teams and influence stakeholders in a fast‑paced environment.

We are open to considering strong Senior Cost Managers or Associate Director‑level professionals for this position.

This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, with three days per week in our Seattle office and remote flexibility for the remaining days.

• Lead cost management activities throughout the project lifecycle, including early‑stage budgeting, estimating, cost control, and change management through to final account closeout.
• Develop and present detailed cost plans, budgets, and estimates aligned with project scope and objectives.
• Prepare and deliver accurate monthly cost reports, forecasts, and executive‑level presentations.
• Maintain benchmarking data, historical cost records, and lessons learned for continuous improvement.
• Review design development and contractor pricing, providing commercial input and leading negotiations to ensure fair and competitive contract pricing.
• Provide strategic advice on procurement strategies, bid analysis, and contract administration.
• Oversee contingency tracking, commitment logs, and cost impact reporting across multiple packages or phases.
• Drive value engineering and design optimization initiatives to identify cost‑saving opportunities.
• Coordinate with project controls and scheduling teams to align cost forecasts with progress updates.
• Mentor and coach junior team members, fostering professional development and best practices.
• Contribute to the enhancement of internal cost management tools, templates, and processes.
• Ensure compliance with internal financial systems, client‑specific requirements, and regulatory controls.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, vendors, and internal teams.
• SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, where applicable.

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• 8–12+ years of progressive experience in cost management or a related discipline, including leadership responsibilities.
• Expertise in cost planning, budgeting, financial reporting, and change management.
• Strong knowledge of procurement strategies and commercial management of contractor/vendor contracts.
• Proficiency in industry‑standard cost management tools and software.
• Advanced analytical and problem‑solving abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams and adapt to evolving priorities.
• Experience managing large‑scale, mission‑critical projects (data centers, high‑tech, industrial) is advantageous but not required.
• Experience with MEP systems is desirable.
• RICS accreditation or progress toward it is advantageous.
• Consultancy experience is desirable.

Salary range for this full‑time role is $160,000–$185,000 per year. This range is a reflection of base salary only, not a total compensation package. Turner & Townsend reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range, depending on candidate’s experience and qualifications. On‑site presence and requirements may change depending on client needs.

Our inspired people share our vision and mission. We provide a great place to work, where each person has the…