Senior Manager of Estimating, Project Controls

Meow Wolf•Santa Fe, NM

1d•$103,130 - $142,320•Hybrid

About The Position

Meow Wolf opens portals of possibility. Come as you are! We are individuals who inspire creativity in people's lives through art and exploration, so that our combined imaginations can transform the world we live in. We create immersive and interactive experiences that transport audiences into fantastic realms of story and exploration. Our Vision is to be the world’s leading creative company, reimagining the paradigm of art and storytelling, to make a positive difference in the world. We share a strong commitment to Belonging through our values of: Collaborative Creativity: We believe the act of creating together amplifies possibilities. Provocative Playfulness: We celebrate the unexpected because it is the doorway to discovery. Outsiders Welcome: We are all outsiders at heart, and we create space for everyone to feel like they belong. Authentic Compassion: We are “kind punks” - supportive to each other and standing up for what we believe in. Audacious Courage: We have the courage to radically reinvent ourselves to push the boundaries of art. If this all sounds like YOU, read on…. Job Description: Senior Manager of Estimating, Project Controls Job Disclosures: Location: (On-site) Santa Fe, NM (preferred), or candidates may be remote providing they reside within one of the following markets: Santa Fe NM, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, Dallas TX, Houston TX, Los Angeles CA or New York City, NY. Compensation: The salary range for this position is $103,130.43 - $142,320.00 USD annually. Compensation may vary based on candidate location and experience. Deadline: The deadline for submitting applications for this position is April 20, 2026. Meow Wolf reserves the right to extend this deadline if needed. Job Summary: The Senior Manager of Estimating, Project Controls will oversee the estimating function for all Meow Wolf projects across their full lifecycle, from early ideation through design, construction, and delivery. This leader will develop, manage, and scale a high-performing estimating team within the Project Controls division. The role is responsible for providing accurate, timely, and comprehensive project cost estimates, integrating risk and market analysis, and ensuring consistency across all projects. This position partners closely with Creative, Finance, Engineering, and Executive Leadership to ensure project feasibility, cost efficiency, and delivery of world-class experiences.

Requirements

10–12 years of experience in estimating or cost control in construction, themed entertainment, or related industries.
Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field, or equivalent experience.
Proven leadership experience in managing estimating teams and processes.
Exceptional communication, collaboration, and leadership skills; proven ability to partner with executive and creative leadership.
Deep understanding of project controls, estimating methodologies, cost systems, and industry best practices.
Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills.
Proven ability to balance multiple complex projects, tight deadlines, and shifting priorities.
High degree of confidentiality, judgment, and accountability.
Experience in mentoring and developing staff and consultants.
Proficiency with automated cost systems, risk analysis tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Familiarity with construction, themed entertainment, attractions, or large-scale multidisciplinary projects.

Responsibilities

Lead the estimating function within the Project Controls division, ensuring accurate project estimates across all phases.
Supervise, mentor, and grow a team of estimators and consultants to support current and future project pipelines.
Establish and maintain standardized estimating procedures, tools, and cost databases.
Collaborate with Project Development, Creative, Finance, Engineering, and Operations to align scope, budget, and feasibility.
Partner with Risk Management to develop comprehensive risk registers and incorporate schedule/cost risk analyses into estimates.
Provide early and ongoing cost analysis, market benchmarking, and trend reporting to Meow Wolf leadership.
Manage and oversee the selection and direction of external cost consultants, ensuring integration with in-house standards.
Develop, review, and validate Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), scope documents, and cost forecasts in partnership with Project Controls.
Ensure that estimates include a thorough assessment of labor, equipment, materials, and market conditions.
Identify project risks and evaluate contingency strategies to protect budgets and schedules.
Provide cost oversight during design iterations to ensure the creative vision aligns with financial feasibility.
Support Executive Leadership with high-level estimating reports, presentations, and scenario analyses for strategic decisions.
Build and maintain a historical cost database and benchmarking library to improve accuracy and decision-making.
Champion the estimating process as being a key driver of project success while integrating it into Meow Wolf’s growth strategy.