Senior Data Center MEP Estimator – Precon Cost Lead

Jobtailor; Illinois; On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Jobtailor is seeking an experienced Construction Estimator for data centers in Illinois. You will develop estimates from schematic documents through construction drawings and IFC, providing specialist input on MEP bids to client teams.

You will review change orders for value, analyze documents for risks and opportunities, and support preconstruction activities with site teams and client leads. Travel to client sites is required as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related field.
• RICS designation is preferred but not necessary.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in construction estimating, with a focus on data centers or mission‑critical facilities.
• Construction consultancy experience preferred.
• Strong foundation in budgeting, financial reporting, estimating systems and software.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with high attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and develop project estimates from CD through to IFC sets.
• Provide specialist input on Mechanical and Electrical bids to client’s team.
• Review all subcontractors change orders to ensure value.
• Analyze project documents to identify potential risks, opportunities, and cost‑saving measures.
• Participate in project meetings and provide ongoing support to project teams throughout the preconstruction phase.
• 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.
• Travel to client site / office as required.

Skills

Estimating

Budgeting

Financial reporting

Client management

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

RICS designation (preferred)

Quantity Surveying

Engineering

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

Jobtailor is seeking an experienced Construction Estimator for data centers in Illinois. You will develop estimates from schematic documents through construction drawings and IFC, providing specialist input on MEP bids to client teams.

You will review change orders for value, analyze documents for risks and opportunities, and support preconstruction activities with site teams and client leads. Travel to client sites is required as needed.