Data Center Cost Leader – Senior Estimator

Talentify; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 66,000 - 99,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre‑tax and R

Life Insurance

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a CSA Estimator / Senior Cost Manager for a data center construction program in the Chicago area. This on-site, long-term role focuses on cost management, estimating, and commercial control across multiple sites.

The Senior Cost Manager will oversee budgets, develop accurate estimates, analyze pricing, and lead cost-control efforts through design and construction phases, with opportunities to influence value engineering and client relations.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in cost management, estimating, quantity surveying, or construction commercial management.
• Strong understanding of estimating methodologies, budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Review project documents and develop accurate cost estimates for assigned scopes of work.
• Prepare conceptual estimates, project budgets, cost plans, and forecasting reports for data center and commercial construction projects.
• Analyze subcontractor and vendor pricing, prepare bid evaluations, and support bidding processes.
• Evaluate change orders and provide clear assessments of cost and financial impact.
• Manage project cost tracking, forecasting, and reporting processes throughout design and construction phases.
• Support contract administration and commercial management activities for assigned projects.
• Review contracts and participate in commercial negotiations to protect project financial objectives.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, and key project stakeholders.
• Lead cost management efforts on assigned projects and client accounts, acting as a trusted cost consultant.
• Monitor project financial performance, identify potential risks or opportunities, and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Prepare project plans, detailed cost reports, and executive-level financial updates.
• Support business development activities and contribute to client growth initiatives within the data center program.
• Mentor junior cost management professionals and provide technical guidance in estimating, forecasting, and cost control.
• Apply construction management and project management principles to support overall project delivery.
• Contribute to value engineering and lifecycle costing discussions to optimize project value and long‑term performance.

Skills

Cost management

Estimating

Quantity surveying

Construction finance

Contract management

Analytical thinking

Client communication

Multi-tasking

Budgeting

Excel modeling

Education

MRICS / AssocRICS / CCP / CEP / CPE

Tools

On-Screen Takeoff

Excel

Cost modeling software

Job description

Actalent is seeking a CSA Estimator / Senior Cost Manager for a data center construction program in the Chicago area. This on-site, long-term role focuses on cost management, estimating, and commercial control across multiple sites.

The Senior Cost Manager will oversee budgets, develop accurate estimates, analyze pricing, and lead cost-control efforts through design and construction phases, with opportunities to influence value engineering and client relations.