Senior Preconstruction Cost Estimator - Data Center Construction

Senior Preconstruction Cost Estimator - Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend is seeking an experienced Senior Preconstruction Cost Estimator to deliver cost management and estimating services across major capital programs. This role specializes in Civil, Structural, and Architectural (Core & Shell) estimating for large-scale data center and mission-critical industrial projects, including multi-building campus developments, new greenfield facilities, and complex expansion programs across a national portfolio.

The Senior CSA Estimator will serve as a technical expert, provide guidance to project teams, and contribute to consistent estimating standards across the organization. The ideal candidate has deep CSA estimating experience within mission-critical environments and a strong understanding of large-scale, fast-paced construction delivery models.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation of detailed CSA cost estimates and cost plans, including development, analysis, and presentation of final cost plans to clients.
• Estimate confidently across all project phases; conceptual, programming, schematic, design development, and detailed design.
• Lead bid reviews, including detailed evaluation of contractor proposals, clarifications, and comparative analyses.
• Drive benchmarking efforts, leveraging internal and external cost data to support cost validation and program-level reporting.
• Lead value engineering (VE) reviews and work sessions, identifying cost-optimization strategies and design efficiencies.
• Support feasibility studies and lead preparation of procurement and tender documentation.
• Direct procurement activities including prequalification, bid list development, bid evaluations, bid summaries, and contract documentation.
• Perform independent cost checks, valuations, and earned-value reviews on large or complex projects.
• Cultivate strong working relationships with clients, contractors, design teams, and internal project teams.
• Mentor and provide technical oversight to junior and mid-level estimators.
• Contribute to business development by identifying service opportunities and supporting proposal content as needed.
• Support continuous improvement of internal estimating tools, templates, data sets, and delivery processes.
• SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role and must be adhered to where applicable.

Qualifications

• Advanced technical understanding of estimating and cost management processes.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related technical field.
• Minimum 7–10 years of experience preparing and reviewing large-scale CSA estimates.
• Proven expertise in Civil, Structural, and Architectural (Core & Shell) estimating and strong understanding of related engineering and design disciplines.
• Experience in mission-critical sectors such as data centers, high-tech manufacturing, industrial, or large commercial construction projects.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to communicate at an executive stakeholder level.
• Hands-on experience with CostX (2D/3D takeoff, assemblies, and workbooks) is highly preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with AutoCAD, Navisworks, or similar technical tools preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced environment.
• Deep understanding of construction procurement methodologies and contract structures.
• Experience facilitating value engineering, value management, and life-cycle cost analysis discussions.
• Demonstrated client-facing experience with the ability to lead presentations, workshops, and estimate reviews.

Additional Information

*On-site presence and requirements may change depending on our client's needs.

The base salary range for this role is $145K-$170K USD. This range reflects the company's good faith estimate of the base salary for this position at the time of the posting. Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, skills, qualifications, and internal equity. In addition to base salary, employees may be eligible for bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package. Our inspired people share our vision and mission. We provide a great place to work, where each person has the opportunity and voice to affect change.

We want our people to succeed both in work and life. To support this we promote a healthy, productive and flexible working environment that respects work-life balance.

Turner & Townsend is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and actively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.