CSA Cost Estimator - Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend•San Francisco, CA

1d•$100,000 - $140,000

About The Position

Turner & Townsend is seeking a CSA Cost Estimator to support large, multi‑building data center campus projects by developing civil, structural, and architectural (CSA) estimates for major core‑and‑shell facilities delivered at high speed and scale. This role contributes directly to multi‑phase, ground‑up campus developments and requires strong estimating capability, attention to detail, and the ability to operate effectively within large, fast‑moving construction environments.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related technical field.
3–5 years of experience preparing estimates for large‑scale construction programs.
Experience with large‑scale construction projects; data center or mission‑critical experience strongly preferred.
Solid understanding of construction cost fundamentals, quantity takeoff, and general building systems.
Familiarity with CSA scopes (civil, structural, architectural) with some exposure to MEP considered beneficial.
Understanding of construction procurement methods and commercial contract structures.
Experience contributing to VE, feasibility assessments, and design/cost optimization discussions.
Excellent analytical, written, and verbal communication skills, including comfort in client-facing settings.
Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD or Navisworks preferred.

Nice To Haves

Hands‑on experience with CostX (2D/3D takeoff, assemblies, workbooks) is advantageous.
Professional accreditation (e.g., RICS) or active progress toward certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

Prepare detailed construction estimates and cost plans across all project stages (concept, schematic, design development, and detailed design).
Perform quantity takeoffs and cost checks for complex, multi‑package CSA scopes.
Maintain clear documentation of assumptions, inclusions, exclusions, and the basis of estimate.
Support bid reviews by analyzing contractor proposals, conducting comparative assessments, and preparing recommendations.
Assist in the preparation of procurement and tender documentation.
Support procurement activities including prequalification, bid list development, bid analysis, tender reporting, and contract documentation.
Contribute to benchmarking efforts by maintaining and applying cost data and historical metrics across the broader program.
Participate in value engineering (VE) workshops and identify practical cost‑optimization opportunities.
Assist with feasibility studies and early‑stage cost modeling activities.
Maintain proactive communication with clients, contractors, and design teams to ensure clarity of scope and alignment of estimating outputs.
Collaborate closely with internal cost management, procurement, and project controls teams to align estimating, budgeting, and overall program‑level cost planning.
Prepare inputs for leadership‑ready cost updates and estimating materials as needed.
Support internal estimating processes and tools, contributing to templates, benchmarking data, and best practices.
SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role and must be adhered to where applicable.