Senior Cost Manager

About the role:

Turner & Townsend is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Cost Manager / Estimator to join our dynamic San Francisco team. This hybrid role is crucial for delivering multi-disciplined real estate cost solutions for a variety of commercial projects.The ideal candidate will possess a robust estimating background and be adept atsupporting capital programs and real estate portfolio strategies. This position demands an individual who can strategically manage costs from concept through closeout, ensuring projects are delivered on budget and to the highest standards.

What You’ll Do:

Cost Management & Estimating

• Develop and maintain parametric and hybrid cost models to enable rapid estimating, benchmarking, and scenario analysis.

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and budgets across workplace construction projects, including new builds, remodels, and tenant improvements.

• Lead cost planning efforts, including bid review, procurement strategy, and cost analysis reporting.

• Monitor project costs, manage financial risks, and maintain budget adherence throughout the project lifecycle.

• Leverage historical data, market intelligence, and industry trends to enhance accuracy and scalability of cost outputs.

Commercial Management & Financial Governance

• Align cost plans with project schedules to manage cash flow, accruals, and forecasting.

• Ensure compliance with client financial policies, contract requirements, and SOX controls where applicable.

• Maintain financial documentation, manage change orders, and provide clear reporting on cost status and risks.

AI Enablement & Digital Transformation

• Support the development of AI-enabled cost modeling tools, including automated estimating and scenario analysis.

• Contribute to scalable cost intelligence platforms integrating design, asset, and market data.

• Identify and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, standardization, and data-driven delivery.

• Collaborate with technical teams to translate cost management workflows into digital solutions.

Client Advisory & Strategic Influence

• Partner with clients and project teams to align scope, cost, and delivery strategy.

• Provide value engineering and data-driven recommendations to support decision-making.

• Communicate complex cost and risk insights to senior stakeholders with clarity and influence.

• Contribute to enterprise cost strategies, capital planning, and long-range forecasting.

• Mentor team members and drive continuous improvement 

What you’ll need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.

• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in cost estimating within workplace construction or related sectors (e.g., commercial, hospitality, institutional).

• Deep understanding of cost estimation, including materials, labor, and specialized systems in workplace environments.

• Knowledge of local construction codes, regulations, and industry standards.

• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., ProEst, Buildertrend, Procore, Bluebeam).

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Estimator certification (e.g., AACE, ASPE) is a plus.

Safety: Adheres to all company and client safety policies and procedures.

Sources

Turner & Townsend carefully considers multiple factors to determine compensation, including a candidate’s education, training, and experience. The minimum salary for this position is $140,000 annually and the maximum salary for this position is $160,000 annually. The compensation that is offered to a successful candidate will depend on the candidate’s skills, qualifications, and experience. Successful candidates will also be eligible for a discretionary bonus based on Turner & Townsend’s applicable benefit program. This role will provide the following benefits: 401(K), Dental insurance, Health insurance, Life insurance, and Vision insurance Disclaimer: Please be advised that effective January 1, 2025, CBRE Project Management and Turner &Townsend were consolidated into a single global business entity. As a candidate applying for a position, you should be aware that while your initial employment may be with CBRE, you will subsequently transfer directly to Turner & Townsend at a date to be determined.

Equal Employment Opportunity: CBRE is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We have a long-standing commitment to providing equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, veteran status, political belief, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Candidate Accommodations: CBRE values the differences of all current and prospective employees and recognizes how every employee contributes to our company’s success. CBRE provides reasonable accommodations in job application procedures for individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance due to a disability in the application or recruitment process, please submit a request via email at View email address on click.appcast.io or via telephone at View phone number on click.appcast.io (U.S.) and View phone number on click.appcast.io (Canada).

CBRE, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer (Women/Minorities/Persons with Disabilities/US Veterans)