Data Center Senior Cost Manager

AtkinsRéalis; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Employer-matched 401(k)

Paid Time Off

Flexible work options

Job summary

AtkinsRéalis is looking for a Data Center Senior Cost Manager to join their rapidly growing team in Chicago. This role involves preparing and managing project budgets, collaborating with site teams and client leads, and supporting cost reduction efforts. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and at least 7 years of experience in cost management, particularly in data center construction.

AtkinsRéalis offers various benefits including medical and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan, and paid time off. Expected compensation ranges from $120,000 to $165,000+ annually depending on skills and experience.

Qualifications

• 7 years relevant experience in cost management or quantity surveying.
• 4 years or more experience in data center construction required.
• Construction consultancy experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and manage project/campus budgets through the project life cycle.
• Manage the GMP phase and subcontractor selection process.
• Monitor and report project budget performance against targets.

Skills

Budgeting

Communication

Negotiation

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or related field

RICS designation (preferred)

Job description

Data Center Senior Cost Manager

Overview

We are seeking a Data Center Senior Cost Manager to join our Mission‑Critical Data Center team. This team is growing rapidly and is working on some of the most exciting projects in North America. This role is ideally suited to a Senior Cost Manager or Quantity Surveyor who is ready for a client‑facing role.

Your Role

• Preparing and managing project / campus budgets through the project life cycle.
• Managing the GMP phase and subcontractor selection process.
• Review all change orders and payment applications to ensure contract alignment.
• Monitor and report project budget performance vs targets for executive team.
• Collaboration with site teams and client leads.
• Support program wide efforts to reduce costs and increase cost certainty.
• Act as a primary contact for data center clients, ensuring all objectives are achieved.
• Lead junior staff members and assist with their development.
• Travel to client site / office as required.

About You

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related field plus 7 years relevant experience. RICS designation is preferred but not necessary.
• 4 years or more data center construction experience is required.
• Construction consultancy experience preferred.
• Strong foundation in budgeting, financial reporting, cost control systems and software.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with high attention to detail.

Rewards & Benefits

At AtkinsRéalis, our values—Safety, Integrity, Collaboration, Innovation, and Excellence—are more than just words. They are the foundation of who we are and how we work.

Depending on your employment status, AtkinsRéalis benefits may include medical, dental, vision, company‑paid life and short‑and long‑term disability benefits, employer‑matched 401(k) with 100% vesting, employee stock purchase plan, Paid Time Off, leaves of absences options, flexible work options, recognition and employee satisfaction programs, employee assistance program, and voluntary benefits.

Additional Information

Expected compensation range is between $120,000 - $165,000+ annually hourly depending on skills, experience, and geographical location.

Sponsorship for U.S. employment authorization is available for this position. Eligibility will depend on role requirements and applicable immigration criteria.

Equal Opportunity Statement

AtkinsRéalis is an equal opportunity, Drug‑Free employer EOE/Veteran/Disability. Please review AtkinsRéalis' Equal Opportunity Statement here.