Cost Manager, Mission Critical

Ryan Companies•Chicago, IN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This role is responsible for leading the full-cycle cost management of projects, establishing and maintaining cost controls from concept through completion. The Cost Manager will conduct scope definition workshops, create and maintain detailed cost plans and estimates, and review design alternatives for cost implications. They will also deliver lifecycle cost models, integrate benchmarking data, and evaluate subcontractor change orders. Additionally, the role involves preparing and presenting monthly cost reports and risk assessments, supporting stakeholder meetings with financial content, and producing cash flow forecasts. The Cost Manager will also assist with procurement processes, including preparing tender documentation, managing queries, and performing reviews. They will manage requisitions, review variations, and support the agreement of accounts. Furthermore, the role requires reviewing contractual terms, coordinating with client finance teams, and analyzing labor markets, union implications, and local tax impacts.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or related field.
7+ years of relevant cost estimating and cost management experience, ideally in general contracting or construction management roles.
Experience in delivering technically complex projects.
Proven expertise in both pre-contract and post-contract phases, including procurement, tendering, and final accounts.
Strong working knowledge of construction cost drivers.
Proficient in industry-standard estimating and cost control software.
Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to confidently present to and influence senior stakeholders.
Able to manage multiple project deliverables simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Experience with U.S. construction practices preferred; knowledge of union labor, tax regulations, and U.S. procurement models is a plus.
Verification of employment to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

Experience with U.S. construction practices
Knowledge of union labor, tax regulations, and U.S. procurement models

Responsibilities

Lead the full-cycle cost management of projects, establishing and maintaining cost controls from concept through completion.
Conduct scope definition workshops with clients to develop accurate, comprehensive project budgets.
Create and maintain detailed cost plans and estimates aligned with each design phase, updating forecasts at key milestones.
Review design alternatives and emerging technologies for cost implications, ensuring estimates meet required accuracy standards.
Deliver lifecycle cost models and integrate benchmarking data to support informed decision-making.
Evaluate subcontractor change order evaluations based on project requirements.
Prepare and present monthly cost reports and risk assessments to senior stakeholders, highlighting key variances, risks, and recommended actions.
Support monthly stakeholder meetings and presentations with financial content, insights, and commentary.
Produce cash flow forecasts across the project lifecycle to support client financial planning.
Prepare tender documentation for trade packages, manage tender queries, and perform leveling and compliance reviews.
Produce Tender Recommendation Reports and lead trade package reviews, ensuring a transparent and compliant procurement process.
Manage monthly pencil requisitions, review variations, and support the agreement of rolling and final accounts.
Review and interpret contractual terms and recommend entitlements related to change orders and claims.
Coordinate with client finance teams to ensure accurate accounting, reporting, and compliance.
Analyze labor markets, union implications, and local tax impacts to inform cost strategy and project budgeting.