Strategic Project Controls Leader - Cost Management

NBMBAA; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

JLL is seeking a Project Controls Lead/Director, Cost Management within Project & Development Services to transform scope briefs into executable narratives with accurate cost estimates guiding delivery.

You will oversee the PDS portfolio, set standards, mentor the team, and collaborate with clients and project managers to ensure reliable charters, budgets, and seamless handoffs to execution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related field
• 10-15 years of construction industry experience with at least 5 years focused on project controls, estimating, or cost consulting
• Proven track record developing accurate cost estimates for complex commercial construction and renovation projects
• Deep knowledge of construction means and methods, material costs, labor productivity, and market conditions
• Expertise using multiple cost databases and benchmarking tools including RS Means, JLL cost data, regional indices, and proprietary systems
• Experience managing teams with demonstrated ability to develop talent and drive performance
• Strong understanding of project delivery methods including design-bid-build, design-build, and construction management
• Ability to conduct site assessments and translate observations into constructability analysis and cost implications
• Excellent analytical skills with attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Proficiency in cost estimating software (OnScreen Takeoff, Bluebeam, CostX, or similar) and advanced Excel skills

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all project controls activities for PDS portfolio, establishing standards and best practices
• Develop comprehensive project definition frameworks that set projects up for successful execution
• Serve as subject matter expert on constructability, sequencing, logistics, and risk identification
• Create detailed project charters that clearly define scope, approach, phasing, schedule, budget, risks
• Develop accurate, defensible cost estimates that serve as committed project budgets
• Apply cost escalation factors, geographic multipliers, and market conditions to estimates
• Build, lead, and mentor project controls team with clear expectations and quality standards
• Partner with PDS leadership to align project controls with strategic objectives

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Cost estimation

Risk assessment

Cost management

Education

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

Tools

OnScreen Takeoff

Bluebeam

CostX

Excel

Job description

JLL is seeking a Project Controls Lead/Director, Cost Management within Project & Development Services to transform scope briefs into executable narratives with accurate cost estimates guiding delivery.

You will oversee the PDS portfolio, set standards, mentor the team, and collaborate with clients and project managers to ensure reliable charters, budgets, and seamless handoffs to execution.