Construction Cost Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a Construction Cost Engineer to join our client's growing construction team in Chicago, IL!

This position will support the continued expansion of complex, mission-critical data center projects, with a strong focus on cost controls, change management, project financials, risk mitigation, and MEP coordination. You’ll work closely with Construction Cost Managers and the broader project team to manage change orders, track costs and project status, and help drive accountability around the financial performance of the project. 

Responsibilities:

• Manage project cost tracking activities from early planning through closeout to help maintain budget accuracy and financial discipline.

• Administer the subcontractor change process by monitoring submissions, following up on pending actions, and confirming documentation is complete before approval.

• Enter and maintain change order records within the designated project platform, ensuring information is accurate, current, and processed within required timelines.

• Contribute to monthly cost reporting by compiling financial data, identifying budget variances, and summarizing key risks along with practical mitigation recommendations.

• Support meetings and presentations with internal leaders, clients, and external partners by preparing clear financial updates and project cost insights.

• Evaluate contract language and project documentation to help determine commercial entitlement related to change events, claims, and other cost impacts.

• Work closely with finance and accounting stakeholders to align reporting, uphold financial controls, and address cost-related questions during the project.

• Review market conditions such as labor availability, union considerations, material pricing, and tax implications to inform estimates, forecasts, and budget adjustments.

• Assist with the resolution of invoice discrepancies, payment questions, and change-related billing issues to keep project financials accurate and current.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Accounting, Finance, Quantity Surveying, or a closely related discipline.

• At least 3 years of relevant experience in construction cost management, project accounting, project controls, or commercial project administration.

• Working knowledge of construction accounting practices and the financial controls required on commercial building projects.

• Experience managing change orders from initial review through documentation, pricing coordination, approval tracking, and final record updates.

• Proficiency with construction technology platforms such as Procore, Bluebeam, or similar.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret cost data, identify discrepancies, and communicate findings clearly to stakeholders.

• Familiarity with large-scale commercial construction environments, including project budgets, schedules, risk tracking, and documentation management.

• High attention to detail, sound business judgment, and a consistent sense of accountability in a deadline-driven setting.

Compensation & Benefits

• The targeted salary range for this position is $85-100K

• Full benefits package (medical, dental, vision)

• Retirement and Savings Benefits

• Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts

• Life Insurance

• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

• Paid Time Off + Paid Holidays

Please Note: This role is based in Chicago, IL and is not a remote opportunity.