Senior Cost Manager

JLL•Poughkeepsie, NY

14h•Onsite

About The Position

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way. Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward. Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Cost Manager based in the Mid-Hudson Valley, NY to lead all pre-construction activities across our client’s headquarters campuses. This role requires a construction professional who can conduct comprehensive site assessments, develop detailed project scopes and narratives, and create accurate cost estimates using regional and global cost databases. The successful candidate will have deep knowledge of construction markets, local building practices, regulatory requirements, and cost structures. This individual will work closely with regional project teams, clients, and the Director of Cost Management to ensure consistent, high-quality pre-construction deliverables across the region.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field
7-10 years of construction industry experience with significant focus on pre-construction, estimating, or cost management
Proven experience developing cost estimates and project scopes for commercial construction projects in New York region
Deep knowledge of construction practices, material costs, and labor markets in New York region
Experience using cost databases, benchmarking tools, and regional pricing indices
Proficiency in cost estimating software and advanced Microsoft Excel
Willingness and ability to travel via car to client sites in New York area

Nice To Haves

Experience in corporate real estate, tenant improvements, or occupied building renovations
Knowledge of international project delivery including cross-border considerations
Familiarity with multiple currency management and financial implications
Understanding of import/export regulations and customs processes affecting construction materials
Professional certifications in estimating, project management, or construction management
Experience with JLL or similar multinational corporate real estate services firms

Responsibilities

Lead all pre-construction activities for PDS projects across New York
Conduct site assessments and feasibility studies at project locations throughout the region
Transform conceptual scope briefs into comprehensive, executable project narratives tailored to local market conditions
Develop detailed project charters defining scope, approach, phasing, schedule, budget, risks, and execution strategies
Ensure all pre-construction deliverables account for regional considerations including local regulations, building codes, permitting requirements, and construction practices
Travel regularly to project sites In New York region to assess conditions and support project development
Develop accurate, detailed cost estimates for projects across New York region
Utilize multiple cost databases including JLL global cost data, regional pricing indices, local market intelligence, and country-specific benchmarks
Apply appropriate currency considerations, inflation factors, tax implications, and local cost structures
Build and maintain regional cost libraries based on completed projects and local subcontractor pricing
Account for import duties, material availability, labor market conditions, and logistics costs unique to each city
Validate estimates through local subcontractor engagement and regional market research
Present cost estimates with clear assumptions, risk factors, and market condition considerations
Adjust estimating methodologies to reflect differences between markets (e.g., NYC vs. Pughkeepsie)
Maintain deep understanding of construction market conditions across New York region
Monitor material costs, labor availability, currency fluctuations, and economic factors impacting construction pricing
Build relationships with local contractors, suppliers, and industry professionals throughout the region
Stay current on regulatory changes, permitting processes, and compliance requirements across jurisdictions
Understand regional construction delivery methods, contracting practices, and industry standards
Identify country-specific risks including political stability, supply chain constraints, and economic volatility
Partner with regional project managers to ensure seamless transition from pre-construction to project execution
Work closely with clients to understand requirements, budget parameters, and local business considerations
Collaborate with design teams and local consultants on constructability and cost optimization
Coordinate with local facility management and building engineering teams on execution feasibility
Report regularly to Pre-Construction Leader on regional activities, challenges, and opportunities
Apply global PDS pre-construction standards while adapting to regional requirements and practices
Ensure consistent quality and format of project charters and cost estimates across all projects
Implement feedback and lessons learned to continuously improve regional pre-construction processes
Maintain documentation standards enabling clear communication across language and cultural differences
Contribute to development of regional best practices and estimating guidelines