Senior Real Estate Development Cost Leader

WGU; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Medical, dental, vision, telehealth, &

Wellbeing program

Discounted WGU tuition

Flexible paid time off

Job summary

WGU is seeking a seasoned Cost Management professional to lead and manage project budgets across the full lifecycle of complex development programs. This role requires expertise in cost estimating, budgeting, forecasting, and commercial management, with a track record of delivering value in cross-functional team environments.

The position emphasizes independent analysis, risk assessment, and proactive cost control, with a rewarding compensation package and opportunities for career growth within

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field is required.
• 8+ years of experience in quantity surveying, cost management, or commercial management.
• Experience supporting large-scale or complex development projects (e.g., commercial, institutional, higher education, mixed-use).
• Experience working with cross-functional teams including architects, engineers, contractors, and owners.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and management of project budgets from early planning through completion.
• Establish and maintain detailed cost plans aligned to scope, schedule, and risk.
• Validate and challenge estimates from architects, consultants, contractors, and third parties.
• Monitor budget performance, identifying risks, variances, and savings opportunities.
• Prepare budget forecasts and cash flow projections.
• Provide cost modeling and estimating support throughout design development.
• Evaluate design alternatives and recommend cost-effective solutions.
• Lead value engineering efforts while preserving design intent and project objectives.
• Conduct commercial and comparative analyses of design and procurement options.
• Assess cost impacts of scope changes, design revisions, and market conditions.
• Provide independent cost analysis to inform key project decisions.

Skills

Cost estimating

Budgeting

Forecasting

Commercial management

Contract evaluation

Negotiation

Change management

Communication skills

Risk identification

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Job description

WGU is seeking a seasoned Cost Management professional to lead and manage project budgets across the full lifecycle of complex development programs. This role requires expertise in cost estimating, budgeting, forecasting, and commercial management, with a track record of delivering value in cross-functional team environments.

The position emphasizes independent analysis, risk assessment, and proactive cost control, with a rewarding compensation package and opportunities for career growth within