Senior Mechanical Cost Estimator - Data Center Construction (Anticipated Opening)
About The Position
Turner & Townsend is seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Estimator to support the delivery of large‑scale, mission‑critical data center projects. This role plays a key leadership part in helping project teams plan, price, and deliver highly technical facilities where mechanical systems represent a significant portion of overall construction cost and complexity. The Senior Mechanical Estimator will lead the preparation of detailed mechanical estimates for HVAC, cooling, piping, and plumbing systems, providing commercial and technical input throughout the project lifecycle. Working closely with engineers, contractors, and internal teams, this role supports estimating strategy, risk management, and value optimization in a fast‑paced, 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.
- 6+ years of experience in mechanical estimating, with strong preference for data center, mission‑critical, or complex large‑scale construction projects.
- Advanced 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 strong familiarity interpreting BIM‑based information.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain cost assumptions and risks to stakeholders.
- Proven ability to work independently while leading and contributing effectively within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
Nice To Haves
- Demonstrated experience estimating high‑density and high‑performance cooling systems is highly desirable.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development of detailed mechanical cost estimates for data center projects, including HVAC systems, chilled water plants, piping, plumbing, and mechanical equipment.
- Perform and oversee comprehensive quantity takeoffs from drawings, specifications, and BIM models, including CRAC/CRAH units, chillers, pumps, heat rejection equipment, and mechanical distribution systems.
- Develop and validate labor, material, and equipment pricing models aligned with project budgets, delivery strategies, and market conditions.
- Maintain and refine historical cost data, benchmarking tools, and lessons learned to support future estimates and program forecasting.
- Review and challenge mechanical contractor and subcontractor pricing, identifying scope gaps, cost risk, and value improvement opportunities.
- Lead and support value engineering and design optioneering efforts, evaluating alternative system configurations to improve performance, constructability, and cost efficiency.
- Partner closely with engineering, procurement, and construction teams to inform mechanical system decisions based on cost, schedule, and risk considerations.
- Identify and assess risks related to equipment lead times, supply chain constraints, specialized labor availability, and market volatility.
- Account for regional cost variations across U.S. markets, including labor rates, logistics constraints, and material pricing.
- Support standardized data center designs and repeatable delivery models to maximize economies of scale and speed to market.
- Ensure mechanical estimates align with sustainability goals, energy efficiency targets, and applicable codes and regulations.
- Prepare clear, defensible estimating deliverables and 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.
- Provide technical and commercial guidance to junior estimators and contribute to estimating best practices.
- SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
