Strategic Cost Estimating Leader for Capital Projects

Cushman & Wakefield; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 157,000 - 185,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, vision, and dental insurance

Retirement savings plan

Life and disability insurance

Job summary

Cushman & Wakefield is seeking a Senior Manager, Cost Estimating to lead cost estimation for large‑scale capital programs in Atlanta. You will oversee conceptual through construction‑level estimates and partner with project teams to ensure accurate budgeting and forecasting throughout the project lifecycle.

You will drive estimating standards, benchmark complex costs, and mentor junior staff while collaborating with clients, management, and design/construction partners on multiple sectors,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Architecture, or related field.
• At least 10 years of progressive experience in construction cost estimating, cost management, project controls, or capital project advisory services.
• Experience preparing and managing estimates for medium‑to large‑scale capital construction projects.
• Experience leading estimating efforts and coordinating cross‑functional project teams.
• Professional certifications such as AACE (CCP), RICS, CEP, or PMP are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and review of conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction‑level cost estimates for complex capital projects.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop cost plans, project budgets, and financial forecasts.
• Support the implementation and continuous improvement of estimating standards, methodologies, tools, and best practices.
• Analyze market conditions, labor availability, material pricing, escalation trends, and regional cost drivers to inform estimate development.
• Develop and maintain cost benchmarking data and historical cost information to improve estimate accuracy.
• Partner with project controls teams to align estimating activities with budgeting, forecasting, and reporting processes.
• Participate in value engineering workshops and cost optimization initiatives with project stakeholders.
• Review contractor bids, change orders, third‑party estimates, and cost proposals for completeness and accuracy.
• Support project governance reviews and client presentations by providing cost analysis and estimating insights.
• Identify project cost risks and opportunities and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Ensure quality and consistency of estimating deliverables across projects and programs.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, construction, and project management teams to support successful project execution.
• Contribute estimating expertise to business development pursuits, proposals, and project opportunities.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior estimating professionals.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives through process enhancements, technology adoption, and data‑driven decision making.
• Stay informed on industry trends, pricing changes, procurement strategies, and cost estimating best practices.

Skills

Cost estimating

Project controls

Financial modeling

Data analysis

Excel proficiency

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Mentoring

Risk assessment

Industry benchmarking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management/Engineering/Quantity Surveying/Architecture or related field

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

Cost estimating software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Cushman & Wakefield is seeking a Senior Manager, Cost Estimating to lead cost estimation for large‑scale capital programs in Atlanta. You will oversee conceptual through construction‑level estimates and partner with project teams to ensure accurate budgeting and forecasting throughout the project lifecycle.

You will drive estimating standards, benchmark complex costs, and mentor junior staff while collaborating with clients, management, and design/construction partners on multiple sectors,