Senior Cost Manager - Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend; Seattle (WA); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global construction consultancy is seeking a Senior Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor to oversee cost management for high-profile data center projects in Seattle. This role involves budgeting, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Candidates should have relevant qualifications and a strong background in cost management. This position offers a hybrid work model with competitive compensation ranging from $140,000 to $165,000 annually.

Qualifications

• 6–10+ years of progressive experience in cost management or related discipline.
• Expertise in cost planning and change management.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead cost management activities throughout the project lifecycle.
• Develop and present detailed cost plans aligned with project objectives.
• Prepare and deliver accurate monthly cost reports.

Skills

Cost planning

Budgeting

Financial reporting

Negotiation skills

Analytical abilities

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Cost management tools

Job description

Senior Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor – Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend is seeking an experienced Senior Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor to drive cost management for a high‑profile tech client’s data center construction portfolio. The role oversees cost planning and control across multiple projects, ensuring accurate budgets, forecasts, and reports throughout the lifecycle. It requires strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills, and the ability to present cost data and recommendations confidently to senior stakeholders.

Location & Work Arrangement: Hybrid – Seattle office three days per week, remote flexibility remaining days.

Base Salary Range: $140,000 – $165,000 per year.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Adhere to SOX control responsibilities where applicable.

Qualifications

• Ability and willingness to work in Seattle office 3 days per week.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field.
• 6–10+ years of progressive experience in cost management or related discipline.
• 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 ability to collaborate across diverse teams.
• Experience managing large‑scale, mission‑critical projects (data centers, high‑tech, industrial) is advantageous.
• Familiarity with MEP systems valuable.
• RICS accreditation or progress toward it is advantageous.
• Consultancy experience beneficial.

Additional Information

The salary range reflects base salary only; total compensation may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Turner & Townsend is an equal‑opportunity employer. All information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.