Senior Electrical Estimator – Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 135,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

A global professional services company in Portland is seeking a Senior Electrical Estimator to lead estimating efforts for large data centre construction projects. This role requires deep experience in electrical estimating, with responsibilities including cost planning, procurement management, and collaboration with project teams. Ideal candidates will hold a relevant degree and possess at least 7 years of experience in electrical estimating. The salary range for this full-time role is $135K–$165K, reflecting the company's commitment to equitable compensation.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in electrical estimating and cost consulting.
• Proven ability to prepare large, complex electrical cost estimates.
• Hands-on construction experience with electrical systems is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical estimating efforts from RFP through construction completion.
• Develop and present detailed cost plans.
• Manage all aspects of procurement: pre-qualification, bid analysis, and contract documentation.

Skills

Electrical estimating

Communication skills

Cost management

Organization

Technical expertise

Education

Degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

AutoCAD

Navisworks

CostX

Job description

Turner & Townsend is a global professional services company with over 22,000 people in more than 60 countries. Working with clients across real estate, infrastructure, energy and natural resources, we transform together delivering outcomes that improve people’s lives. Working in partnership makes it possible to deliver the world’s most impactful projects and programs as we turn challenge into opportunity and complexity into success. Our capabilities include program, project, cost, asset and commercial management, controls and performance, procurement and supply chain, net zero and digital solutions. We are majority-owned by CBRE Group, Inc., the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm, with our partners holding a significant minority interest, and together we provide clients with the premier program, project and cost management offering in markets around the world.

Job Description

Senior Electrical Estimator – supporting large‑scale, high‑value data centre construction projects for a key client. This role is ideal for professionals with deep experience in electrical estimating and a strong understanding of the complexities involved in hyperscale data centre builds.

You’ll be part of our Construction Management team, delivering expert cost consulting services and working closely with clients, general contractors and project teams throughout all phases of construction.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical estimating efforts from RFP through construction completion for hyperscale data centre projects.
• Develop and present detailed cost plans at conceptual, programming, and design stages.
• Conduct feasibility studies and contribute to procurement strategy and reporting.
• Manage all aspects of procurement: pre‑qualification, bid analysis, bid reporting, and contract documentation.
• Review and validate subcontractor bids and scopes for completeness and accuracy.
• Perform cost checks, valuations, and change control processes on large‑scale projects.
• Produce monthly post‑contract cost reports and present findings to clients.
• Provide input into value engineering and negotiate final accounts.
• Collaborate with project managers and design teams to align scope, budget, and schedule.
• Analyze historical cost data and market trends to support benchmarking and forecasting.
• Participate in risk assessments and mitigation planning related to electrical systems.
• Maintain strong client relationships and act as a trusted advisor throughout all project phases.
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to internal process improvements.
• Support the development of estimating tools, templates, and best practices tailored to data centre projects.
• Coordinate with design and engineering teams to ensure constructability and cost efficiency.
• Monitor market conditions and supply chain trends affecting electrical systems and materials.
• Ensure compliance with local codes, standards, and permitting requirements.
• SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.

Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering, Construction Management (with technical focus), Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in electrical estimating and cost consulting.
• Proven ability to prepare large, complex electrical cost estimates.
• Experience in data centre construction estimating or related is preferred.
• Hands‑on construction experience with electrical systems is required.
• Experience working with electrical subcontractors, demonstrating deep understanding of scopes, means and methods.
• Strong technical expertise across all cost management phases: pre‑contract, post‑contract, and final account.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills in client‑facing environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, Navisworks, Bluebeam, and other relevant software.
• Familiarity with estimating platforms such as CostX, WinEst, or similar tools.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Deep knowledge of construction procurement methods and contract structures.
• Experience advising clients on value management, value engineering, and life‑cycle costing.
• Understanding of electrical systems in mission‑critical environments, including redundancy, power distribution, and commissioning.
• Business development experience and ability to identify growth opportunities.

Additional Information

The salary range for this full‑time role is $135K–$165K per year. Ranges are determined by role and level and represent a good faith effort to provide a fair and equitable salary. This range reflects base salary only, not the total compensation package. Please note Turner & Townsend reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range, depending on candidate’s experience and qualifications.

Turner & Townsend is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and actively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.