Lead Cost Manager - Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend•Seattle, WA

20d•$160,000 - $185,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Turner & Townsend is seeking a Lead Cost Manager to oversee cost management for a large-scale, mission-critical data center construction program. This leadership role requires advanced technical expertise, strategic thinking, and the ability to guide teams and influence stakeholders in a fast-paced environment. We are open to considering strong Senior Cost Managers or Associate Director-level professionals for this position. As a Lead Cost Manager, you will take ownership of cost management across the full project lifecycle, ensuring delivery within budget while maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance. You will lead client-facing engagements, mentor team members, and drive best practices in cost planning and control. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, with three days per week in our Seattle office and remote flexibility for the remaining days.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
8–12+ years of progressive experience in cost management or a related discipline, including leadership responsibilities.
Expertise in cost planning, budgeting, financial reporting, and change management.
Strong knowledge of procurement strategies and commercial management of contractor/vendor contracts.
Proficiency in industry-standard cost management tools and software.
Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams and adapt to evolving priorities.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing large-scale, mission-critical projects (data centers, high-tech, industrial) is advantageous but not required.
Experience with MEP systems is desirable.
RICS accreditation or progress toward it is advantageous.
Consultancy experience is desirable.

Responsibilities

Lead cost management activities throughout the project lifecycle, including early-stage budgeting, estimating, cost control, and change management through to final account closeout.
Develop and present detailed cost plans, budgets, and estimates aligned with project scope and objectives.
Prepare and deliver accurate monthly cost reports, forecasts, and executive-level presentations.
Maintain benchmarking data, historical cost records, and lessons learned for continuous improvement.
Review design development and contractor pricing, providing commercial input and leading negotiations to ensure fair and competitive contract pricing.
Provide strategic advice on procurement strategies, bid analysis, and contract administration.
Oversee contingency tracking, commitment logs, and cost impact reporting across multiple packages or phases.
Drive value engineering and design optimization initiatives to identify cost-saving opportunities.
Coordinate with project controls and scheduling teams to align cost forecasts with progress updates.
Mentor and coach junior team members, fostering professional development and best practices.
Contribute to the enhancement of internal cost management tools, templates, and processes.
Ensure compliance with internal financial systems, client-specific requirements, and regulatory controls.
Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, vendors, and internal teams.
SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.