Director, Cost Management

JLL • Madison, WI

1d • $160,000 - $225,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Director, Cost Management is a senior leadership position focused on project controls across multiple projects, including large-scale and complex engagements. The role oversees cost estimates, budgets, schedules, risks, reporting, and change management throughout project delivery. It requires extensive knowledge of construction techniques and technology, real estate markets, and project controls, along with strong analytical, communication, and relationship-management skills. The Director also leads teams, develops client relationships and business, supports PDS strategy, and advances service quality and best practices. The position is on-site in New York, NY and requires approximately 25% travel, which may vary. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution; preference for Quantity Surveying, Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management.
• Ability to generate AACE Level 1–5 cost evaluations, work conceptually, qualify unknowns, and use estimating software and benchmarking tools.
• Conceptual knowledge of project cost-management theories, practices, and procedures.
• Demonstrated competence in performing structured work assignments.
• Ability to use existing procedures to solve routine or standard problems.
• Ability to receive instruction, guidance, and direction from more senior-level roles.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• 10+ years as an Estimator, Cost Manager, or in a similar role.
• Knowledge of Cost-X, On-Screen Takeoff, or other estimating software.
• Professional project management certification, such as AACE or RICS.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with procurement and tendering processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead project controls for multiple engagements, including large-scale and complex projects.
• Partner with team members to execute complex projects through all stages and present to key stakeholders.
• Prepare detailed construction and project cost estimates from conceptual design through final construction documents.
• Assess local market pricing for materials, labor, and equipment using published sources, historical data, and market studies.
• Provide value engineering services and design option reviews.
• Identify and analyze risks to project deliverables, timelines, and budgets; develop mitigation strategies and monitor implementation.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to gather data and provide timely, accurate project status updates.
• Prepare bid analyses and participate in reconciliations with contractors and subcontractors.
• Generate project progress reports and present findings to internal and external stakeholders.
• Conduct periodic project audits to identify deviations from project control processes.
• Review change orders and support change management, including assessment of whether changes fall within the base-work scope.
• Apply lessons learned and best practices to future projects and stay current with project controls industry practices.
• Support the global community of practice with subject matter expertise.
• Lead or support program and complex-project strategy and operations, and serve as a team lead.
• Mentor, develop, and oversee team members and direct reports; contribute to identifying and attracting talent.
• Be accountable for client service and fiduciary responsibilities, maintain client relationships, manage expectations, and communicate proactively.
• Develop and implement P&L team strategy aligned with PDS business strategy, and implement best practices that enhance firm capabilities.
• Source and cultivate client and business relationships, support pursuit strategies, and secure new business in accordance with PDS revenue-generation requirements.
• Represent JLL at industry events, conferences, and media engagements; contribute content and support the business’s reputation.
• Maintain industry-recognized credentials and certifications, stay informed about PDS processes and systems, and contribute to strategic client initiatives.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision care.
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay.
• Supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package prioritizing mental, physical, and emotional health.

What This Job Offers

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