Mechanical Cost Estimator - Data Center Construction (Anticipated Opening)

Turner & Townsend•San Francisco, CA

1d•$100,000 - $140,000•Remote

About The Position

Turner & Townsend is seeking an experienced Mechanical Estimator to support the delivery of large-scale, mission-critical data center projects. This role plays an important part in helping our teams plan, price, and deliver highly technical facilities where mechanical systems account for a significant portion of construction cost and complexity. The Mechanical Estimator will be responsible for preparing detailed mechanical estimates covering HVAC, cooling, piping, and plumbing systems, working closely with engineers, contractors, and internal commercial teams. The ideal candidate brings strong technical knowledge, solid estimating experience, and the ability to work in a fast‑paced, highly collaborative environment. Candidates for this role must be physically based in the United States and legally authorized to work in the U.S. Remote work is permitted only from within the United States; candidates located outside the U.S. cannot be considered for remote employment. Preference will be given to candidates based in Pacific or Central U.S. time zones.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Building Services, or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
3–5+ years of experience in mechanical estimating, with strong preference for data center, mission-critical, or complex commercial construction projects.
Solid technical knowledge of HVAC systems, cooling infrastructure, mechanical codes, and labor productivity rates.
Proficiency in estimating and takeoff tools such as Bluebeam, ProEst, Trimble AutoBid, or similar platforms, with comfort interpreting BIM-based information.
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience estimating high-density or high-performance cooling systems is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Prepare detailed mechanical cost estimates for data center projects, including HVAC, chilled water systems, piping, plumbing, and mechanical equipment.
Perform comprehensive quantity takeoffs from drawings, specifications, and BIM models, including CRAC/CRAH units, chillers, pumps, heat rejection equipment, and mechanical distribution systems.
Develop accurate labor, material, and equipment pricing models aligned with project budgets and delivery strategies.
Maintain historical cost data, benchmarks, and lessons learned to support future estimates.
Review mechanical contractor and subcontractor pricing to identify scope gaps, cost risk, and value improvement opportunities.
Support value engineering and design optioneering by evaluating alternative system configurations that improve performance, constructability, and cost efficiency.
Collaborate with engineering and construction teams to inform mechanical system decisions based on cost, schedule, and procurement considerations.
Identify and assess risks related to equipment lead times, specialized labor availability, and market volatility.
Account for regional cost variations across U.S. markets, including labor rates, logistics constraints, and material availability.
Support standardized data center designs and repeatable delivery models, maximizing economies of scale and speed to market.
Ensure estimates align with sustainability objectives, energy efficiency standards, and applicable codes and regulations.
Prepare clear, well-documented estimating deliverables for internal and external stakeholders.
Participate in cost reviews, procurement discussions, and commercial strategy sessions.
Support change management by evaluating mechanical scope changes and associated cost impacts throughout the project lifecycle.
SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.