Cost Manager | Owners Rep (Chicago)

Cost Manager – Construction Consultancy

Chicago, Illinois, United States (WFH opportunities)

Salary: DOE

About the Role

Join our highly respected cost management and estimating team and play a pivotal role in delivering precise, strategic, and innovative solutions for clients across a variety of building types. You’ll work on projects from concept through construction, leveraging cutting-edge tools like BIM 5D cost modeling, LEED cost analysis, and life cycle costing to influence project outcomes.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work on high-profile projects, collaborate closely with project teams, and gain exposure to the full spectrum of construction cost management .

Key Responsibilities

• Cost Management: Lead cost control, negotiate change orders, and manage contingencies.
• Budgeting & Forecasting: Oversee project budgets, provide accurate financial forecasts, and analyze financial statements.
• Invoice Processing: Track and process invoices while maintaining up-to-date cost systems.
• Reporting: Produce progress, earned value, and cost reconciliation reports for internal and client review.
• Contract Administration: Prepare cost estimates and manage contract terms, retention, and insurance.
• Documentation: Maintain project records including change orders, invoices, and relevant documentation.
• Project Closeout: Coordinate project closeout meetings and deliverables.
• Schedule Monitoring: Ensure adherence to project schedules and QA/QC standards.
• Support Project Management: Assist with RFPs, equipment plans, and supplier coordination.
• Proposal & Contract Management: Oversee proposal reviews, contract negotiations, and supplier deliveries.
• Financial Compliance: Ensure budgets are met and project charges are accurately reconciled.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Structural or Architectural Engineering, Cost Estimating, or equivalent technical qualification.
• 4+ years of relevant experience in construction cost estimating across multiple building types, from program through construction documentation stages.
• Strong knowledge of elemental and CSI cost formats.
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to delivering exceptional client service.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and analytical skills.

Why Join Us

• Career Growth: Opportunities to advance within a leading consultancy.
• Impactful Work: Influence high-profile projects from concept through completion.
• Collaborative Environment: Work alongside a skilled team of estimators, project managers, and engineers.
• Flexible Work Options: Some work-from-home opportunities to balance productivity and lifestyle.
• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Tools: BIM 5D, LEED cost analysis, and life cycle costing.