Cost Manager - (Owner's Representative) - Data Center Construction

KALCON • Houston, TX

2d • $135,000 - $185,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

KALCON is looking for a Cost Manager who will be responsible for managing project budgets, pay applications, EAC/forecasting, and change management across data center construction projects. This role collaborates closely with the Director of Construction, Construction Managers, procurement, cost consultants, and the GC to ensure financial accuracy, process efficiency, and timely reporting—all while sustaining strong controls in Procore and related cost management tools.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in cost management for construction projects, preferably in data centers or critical facilities.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Finance, or a related field.
• Skilled in cost management software (e.g., Procore), Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), and project management tools; strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to analyze and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts; demonstrated accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proven capabilities in budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, cost analysis, risk assessment, and value engineering.
• Effective leadership and team collaboration, including conflict resolution and problem solving; familiarity with codes, industry standards, and best practices.
• Ability to visit job sites (including navigating stairs/elevated structures) and work closely with PMs, engineers, contractors, and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Assemble the project proforma in collaboration with the Director of Construction, Construction Manager, the business team, and subcontractors.
• Review GC pre-construction budget updates and GMP pricing.
• Facilitate cost touchpoints and communication with cost consultants and CM cost managers.
• Oversee allowance and buyout tracking and develop cost control strategies that align with project financial goals.
• Receive the GC’s pencil pay application, reconcile issues, and clean up entries prior to submission.
• Submit the final pay application package to the Construction Manager for approvals.
• Ensure accurate and timely invoicing and payment processing for subcontractors and vendors; support contract administration, tracking, and reporting.
• Prepare EAC for review (update costs‑to‑date, commitments), incorporate CM feedback, and update EAC in Procore; take a monthly Procore snapshot.
• Collaborate with Procurement to establish initial OFCI budgets and monthly updates.
• Manage subcontractor spend, financial validations, and forecast projected expenditures; monitor/report financial performance and variances.
• Support the development and maintenance of financial models and forecasting tools to improve predictability.
• Review and process change orders with Construction Managers as needed.
• Oversee change management workflows, including tracking allowances and buyouts; validate impacts and approvals.
• Manage cost‑related risk assessment and mitigation strategies and conduct regular financial audits for compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with procurement teams to manage cost‑effective purchasing and vendor negotiations.
• Oversee budget reconciliation, vendor budget reallocations, and project budget corrections in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Complete monthly and ad‑hoc reports (e.g., Census department), support tax projects, and process miscellaneous bills (utilities, permits).
• Support broader team routines (e.g., West Development call) and drive process efficiency and software proficiency across the team.
• Provide financial analysis and recommendations that support decision‑making and continuous improvement.
• Train and mentor team members on cost control best practices and software tools; promote standardized workflows and high data quality.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with 4% KALCON match when an employee contributes at least 5%
• 15 days of paid time off
• 8 paid National Holidays
• Reimbursement for professional licenses and certifications

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level