Director, Cost Management

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Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

What this job involves:

As Project Controls Lead at JLL, you will be an experienced professional establishing and leading our project controls function within Project & Development Services by transforming conceptual scope briefs into comprehensive, executable project narratives with accurate cost estimates that become the foundation for successful project delivery. This role requires deep construction industry experience, strong cost estimating capabilities across multiple databases and benchmarking tools, and proven people management skills while being accountable for delivering reliable project charters and budgets that the organization is committed to executing within. You'll lead and oversee all project controls activities for the PDS portfolio, establishing standards and best practices while driving site assessments and translating high-level scope briefs into detailed, executable project narratives.

What your day-to-day will look like:

• Lead and oversee all project controls activities for PDS portfolio, establishing standards and best practices while driving site assessments and translating high-level scope briefs into detailed, executable project narratives
• Develop comprehensive project definition frameworks that set projects up for successful execution while establishing quality control processes ensuring consistency and accuracy across all project controls deliverables
• Serve as subject matter expert on constructability, sequencing, logistics, and risk identification during planning phases while partnering with project managers, clients, and stakeholders to define project requirements and success criteria
• Create detailed project charters that clearly define scope, approach, phasing, schedule, budget, risks, and success metrics while conducting thorough site assessments including existing conditions documentation, infrastructure evaluation, and constraint identification
• Develop accurate, defensible cost estimates that serve as committed project budgets while utilizing multiple cost databases including JLL proprietary data, RS Means, regional cost indices, and industry benchmarks
• Apply appropriate cost escalation factors, geographic multipliers, and market conditions to estimates while creating detailed cost breakdowns by CSI division, trade, or other relevant cost structures
• Build, lead, and mentor project controls team ensuring high performance and professional growth while establishing clear expectations, workflows, and quality standards for team deliverables
• Partner closely with PDS leadership to align project controls efforts with strategic objectives and client commitments while collaborating with project managers to ensure seamless handoff from project controls to execution

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related field
• 10-15 years of construction industry experience with at least 5 years focused on project controls, estimating, or cost consulting
• Proven track record developing accurate cost estimates for complex commercial construction and renovation projects
• Deep knowledge of construction means and methods, material costs, labor productivity, and market conditions
• Expertise using multiple cost databases and benchmarking tools including RS Means, JLL cost data, regional indices, and proprietary systems
• Experience managing teams with demonstrated ability to develop talent and drive performance
• Strong understanding of project delivery methods including design-bid-build, design-build, and construction management
• Ability to conduct site assessments and translate observations into constructability analysis and cost implications
• Excellent analytical skills with attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Proficiency in cost estimating software (OnScreen Takeoff, Bluebeam, CostX, or similar) and advanced Excel skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certifications such as CPE (Certified Professional Estimator), CCE (Certified Cost Engineer), PMP, or CCM
• Experience in corporate real estate, tenant improvements, or occupied building renovations
• Background in quantity surveying or cost consulting
• Familiarity with BIM and model-based estimating
• Experience with Procore, e-Builder, or other project management platforms
• Knowledge of sustainable building practices and associated cost implications
• Understanding of value engineering analysis and cost optimization strategies
• Experience with cost variance analysis and lessons learned integration
• Market intelligence capabilities including construction market conditions and pricing trends
• Understanding of financial implications balancing cost, quality, schedule, and risk

This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Estimated compensation for this position:

This range is an estimate and actual compensation may differ. Final compensation packages are determined by various considerations including but not limited to candidate qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations.

Location:

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:

JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care

• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary 

• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays

• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.

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Accepting applications on an ongoing basis until candidate identified.