Senior Construction Cost Estimator – Workplace Solutions

Company Description

Turner & Townsend is a global professional services company with over 22,000 people in more than 60 countries. 

Working with our clients across real estate, infrastructure, energy and natural resources, we transform together delivering outcomes that improve people’s lives. Working in partnership makes it possible to deliver the world’s most impactful projects and programmes as we turn challenge into opportunity and complexity into success. 

Our capabilities include programme, project, cost, asset and commercial management, controls and performance, procurement and supply chain, net zero and digital solutions. 

We are majority-owned by CBRE Group, Inc., the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm, with our partners holding a significant minority interest. Turner & Townsend and CBRE work together to provide clients with the premier programme, project and cost management offering in markets around the world. 

Job Description

Turner & Townsend is seeking a Senior Cost Estimator to support a global technology client on innovative workplace construction projects in Cupertino, California.

This role will be responsible for developing accurate and detailed cost estimates, ensuring financial feasibility from pre-construction through project completion. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, deep knowledge of construction cost drivers, and the ability to collaborate effectively with project teams, contractors, and clients.

*This is a hybrid role, requiring 3 days a week on-site presence in Cupertino, CA (Tuesday - Thursday).

Responsibilities: 

• Maintain control of project budgets and GMP costs throughout all design phases, from Test Fit through construction.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates using historical data and benchmark against GC-provided GMPs at each design milestone.
• Develop ROM and schematic-level estimates to evaluate project feasibility early.
• Analyze and compare design layout options with a strong focus on cost impact.
• Partner closely with General Contractors to review, challenge, and clarify cost assumptions as designs progress.
• Proactively identify and address scope creep and budget escalations before projects advance too far to change course.
• Build and maintain strong GC relationships to ensure transparency, cost accountability, and informed decision-making.

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.

Qualifications

• 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).
• Owners Rep and/or Consultancy experience preferred.
• 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.
• SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable. 

Additional Information

The salary range for this full-time role is $140K-$160K per year. Ranges are determined by role and level and represent a good faith effort to provide a fair and equitable salary. This range is a reflection of base salary only, not of a total compensation package.  Please note Turner & Townsend reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range, depending on candidate’s experience and qualifications. 

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

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.

Please find out more about us at www.turnerandtownsend.com/ and https://www.heery.com/

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

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It is strictly against Turner & Townsend policy for candidates to pay any fee in relation to our recruitment process. No recruitment agency working with Turner & Townsend will ask candidates to pay a fee at any time. 

Any unsolicited resumes/CVs submitted through our website or to Turner & Townsend personal e-mail accounts, are considered property of Turner & Townsend and are not subject to payment of agency fees. In order to be an authorised Recruitment Agency/Search Firm for Turner & Townsend, there must be a formal written agreement in place and the agency must be invited, by the Recruitment Team, to submit candidates for review.