Senior Cost Manager – Data Center Construction

Cumming Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 102,000 - 149,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k)

401(k) Matching

Paid Time Off

Paid Holidays

Short and long-term disability

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Cumming Group in Chicago is seeking a Senior Cost Manager to lead cost management and estimating on a data center construction project. You will develop budgets, manage subcontractor relations, and support contract negotiations to ensure project success.

The role requires 5–8 years in cost management with a strong grasp of estimating methodologies and market economics. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential for cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction, Cost Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related field.
• 5–8 years in Cost Management or Quantity Surveying; professional accreditation preferred (MRICS, AssocRICS, CCP, CEP, CPE, or equivalent).
• Strong understanding of construction costs, estimating methodologies, economics, and local market regulations.
• Proven ability to deliver accurate pricing, cost management, and project support across all phases.
• Excellent communication and ability to work with clients and cross-functional teams.
• Experience supporting business development and client growth.

Responsibilities

• Review, interpret and accurately estimate the scope of assigned work as described in the project documents.
• Develop and nurture sub-contractor, vendor, and client relationships.
• Lead client accounts.
• Review and comment on contracts and participate in contract negotiation.
• Prepare sub-contractor analysis sheets for assigned scope of work.
• Evaluate changes and subcontractor change order estimates and provide expertise in all phases of construction work.
• Perform Continuous Cost Management.
• Manage contract administration at the project level.
• Partner with management team in developing new customers and growing existing customer base.
• Develop and nurture client relationships to ensure client satisfaction.
• Support senior management by providing needed reports and responding to inquiries for information.
• Mentor associate level cost and commercial managers.
• Prepare project plans.

Skills

Cost management

Estimating methodologies

Analytical thinking

Client relationship building

Education

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

Tools

BIM 5D cost modeling

Job description

Cumming Group in Chicago is seeking a Senior Cost Manager to lead cost management and estimating on a data center construction project. You will develop budgets, manage subcontractor relations, and support contract negotiations to ensure project success.

The role requires 5–8 years in cost management with a strong grasp of estimating methodologies and market economics. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential for cross-functional collaboration.