📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Associate Director - Cost Manager - Data Center Construction
Company: Turner & Townsend
Location: Racine, Wisconsin, United States
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Cost Management & Quantity Surveying
Date Posted: 2025-08-01
Experience Level: 10+ years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Lead a Cost Management team and drive large Data Center projects to successful outcomes.
Act as the primary interface with clients, stakeholders, and consultants across all project stages.
Implement and maintain cost control systems, manage financial closeout, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Collaborate with design and construction teams to optimize resource allocation and ensure adherence to client policies and quality standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a seasoned cost professional with proven expertise in cost planning, cost control, estimating, procurement, and financial management. Familiarity with MEP systems and the ability to lead commercial negotiations and work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams are beneficial.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Team Leadership: Lead a Cost Management team, ensuring delivery on all accountabilities.
Client Interface: Act as the primary interface with clients, stakeholders, and consultants across all project stages.
Cost Control: Implement and maintain cost control systems to manage project financials.
Financial Management: Create and manage change order logs, ensure approval protocols, and conduct audits. Manage financial closeout, prepare final cost reconciliations and reports, and ensure all financial obligations are resolved before handover.
Cost-Saving Initiatives: Identify cost-saving opportunities and lead value engineering initiatives.
Commercial Negotiations: Lead proposals for new work or variations and identify cross-selling opportunities.
Project Management: Utilize project management tools to track margin levels and monthly forecasts. Input key learnings into internal databases and share knowledge across teams.
Staff Management: Participate in staff recruitment, performance reviews, and formal management processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves a high level of responsibility and requires strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. The successful candidate will be able to interpret technical drawings, manage large-scale budgets, and use industry-standard tools to deliver precise, data-driven insights.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience: Minimum 8 years in cost management for large, mission-critical construction projects (e.g., Data Centers, High Tech, Industrial). MEP estimating experience is highly beneficial.

Required Skills:

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Proficiency in project management and cost estimating tools (e.g., CostX, Microsoft/G-Suite).
Experience with value management, life cycle costing, and financial reporting.
Ability to estimate at conceptual, programming, and detailed levels.
Familiarity with commit profiles, cash flow, and overall project cost structures.
RICS or equivalent accreditation is advantageous.

Preferred Skills:

Familiarity with ISO audits and quality standards.
Experience with SOX controls.
Knowledge of data center-specific cost benchmarks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should have a proven track record in cost management, with a strong understanding of cost planning, cost control, estimating, procurement, and financial management processes. Experience with data center projects and MEP systems is highly desirable.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements (N/A - Not Applicable for this role)

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $150,000 - $200,000 per year (Estimated based on regional market rates for a senior cost management role in the United States)

Benefits:

Competitive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Opportunities for professional development and career progression within a global organization.
A dynamic, innovative, and client-focused work environment with an inclusive company culture.

Working Hours: Full-time position with standard working hours, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. On-site presence and requirements may change depending on client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on regional market rates for a senior cost management role in the United States. The actual salary may vary depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, and company-specific compensation structures.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Global professional services firm specializing in project management, cost management, and advisory services for the built environment.

Company Size: Medium to large, with over 22,000 specialists in more than 60 countries.

Founded: 1981

Team Structure:

The Cost Management team is part of the Project Management division, working closely with design and construction teams.
The team consists of cost managers, quantity surveyors, and cost estimators, supported by administrative staff.
The role reports directly to the Head of Cost Management or a senior member of the leadership team.

Development Methodology:

Turner & Townsend follows a structured project management approach, utilizing industry-standard tools and best practices.
The company encourages continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration across teams and disciplines.
Turner & Townsend is committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable, and value-driven solutions for clients.

Company Website: www.turnerandtownsend.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment, with a strong focus on client satisfaction and employee development. The company's global presence provides opportunities for career progression and exposure to diverse projects and industries.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Cost Management Career Level: Senior/Associate Director level, responsible for leading a team and driving large, complex projects to successful outcomes.

Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the Head of Cost Management or a senior member of the leadership team. The successful candidate will be expected to manage and mentor junior team members, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture.

Technical Impact: The role involves a high level of responsibility for managing project financials, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and ensuring adherence to client policies and quality standards. The successful candidate will have a significant impact on project outcomes and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Progression: Develop expertise in cost management for data center projects and related industries, with opportunities to specialize in specific market sectors or technical disciplines.
Leadership Development: Gain experience in team leadership, project management, and stakeholder engagement, with opportunities to progress to more senior roles within the Cost Management team or broader organization.
Global Exposure: Leverage Turner & Townsend's global presence to work on international projects and gain exposure to diverse markets and cultures.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for career progression and technical development within a global organization. The successful candidate will have the chance to work on high-profile projects, collaborate with experienced professionals, and contribute to the growth and success of the company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, collaborative office environment with open-plan workspaces, meeting rooms, and breakout areas.

Office Location(s): Racine, Wisconsin, United States (with potential on-site presence at client locations)

Workspace Context:

Collaboration: The office encourages cross-functional collaboration between cost management, project management, design, and construction teams.
Technology: The office is equipped with modern technology, including laptops, tablets, and project management tools.
Flexibility: The office offers flexible working arrangements, with opportunities for remote work and flexible hours.

Work Schedule: Full-time position with standard working hours, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. On-site presence and requirements may change depending on client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend offers a modern, collaborative, and flexible work environment that supports the well-being and productivity of its employees. The company encourages work-life balance and provides opportunities for professional development and career progression.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone/Screening: A brief phone or video call to discuss the role, experience, and qualifications.
Technical Assessment: A technical assessment or case study focusing on cost management, estimating, and problem-solving skills.
Behavioral Interview: A face-to-face or video interview to assess cultural fit, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.
Final Interview: A meeting with senior leadership to discuss the role, company culture, and career development opportunities.

Portfolio Review Tips: (N/A - Not Applicable for this role)

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on cost management, estimating, and procurement skills, with a focus on data center projects and MEP systems.
Familiarize yourself with industry-standard tools, such as CostX, Microsoft/G-Suite, and project management software.
Prepare examples of your experience leading teams, managing project financials, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.

ATS Keywords: (N/A - Not Applicable for this role)

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's interview process is designed to assess the candidate's technical skills, cultural fit, and potential for growth within the organization. The company values candidates who are proactive, innovative, and client-focused, with a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure (N/A - Not Applicable for this role)

👥 Team Culture & Values

Cost Management Values:

Client Focus: Deliver exceptional client service and exceed client expectations.
Integrity: Act with honesty, transparency, and professionalism in all aspects of the role.
Collaboration: Work collaboratively with team members, stakeholders, and clients to achieve shared goals.
Innovation: Embrace continuous learning, innovation, and improvement in all aspects of the role.
Expertise: Develop and maintain a deep understanding of cost management, estimating, and procurement processes.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Work closely with design, construction, and project management teams to deliver integrated, value-driven solutions.
Code Review Culture: Encourage peer review and knowledge sharing to maintain high-quality standards and continuous learning.
Knowledge Sharing: Foster a culture of knowledge sharing, mentoring, and continuous learning to support the growth and development of team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's cost management team values a collaborative, innovative, and client-focused approach to project delivery. The team encourages continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and the development of deep technical expertise in cost management, estimating, and procurement processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Cost Management: Develop and maintain accurate cost estimates, cost plans, and cost reports for complex data center projects.
Estimating: Estimate costs at conceptual, programming, and detailed levels, with a focus on accuracy, completeness, and compliance with client standards.
Procurement: Manage procurement processes, including tendering, contract negotiation, and contract administration.
Value Engineering: Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities, with a focus on value optimization and sustainability.
Stakeholder Management: Manage relationships with clients, stakeholders, and consultants, with a focus on communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Training: Attend industry conferences, workshops, and training courses to develop and maintain technical expertise in cost management, estimating, and procurement processes.
Certification: Pursue relevant certifications, such as RICS or equivalent accreditation, to enhance professional credibility and career progression opportunities.
Mentorship: Seek mentorship opportunities from experienced professionals within the team or broader organization to support personal and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's cost management team offers significant opportunities for technical development, career progression, and exposure to complex, high-profile projects. The team encourages continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and the development of deep technical expertise in cost management, estimating, and procurement processes.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Cost Management: Describe your experience with cost planning, cost control, estimating, and procurement for large, complex construction projects. Provide examples of your ability to manage project financials, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure adherence to client policies and quality standards.
Estimating: Walk through your experience estimating costs at conceptual, programming, and detailed levels. Describe your approach to accuracy, completeness, and compliance with client standards.
Procurement: Discuss your experience managing procurement processes, including tendering, contract negotiation, and contract administration. Provide examples of your ability to balance cost, quality, and schedule considerations.
Value Engineering: Explain your approach to identifying and implementing cost-saving opportunities. Describe your experience with value optimization, sustainability, and life cycle costing.
Stakeholder Management: Describe your experience managing relationships with clients, stakeholders, and consultants. Provide examples of your ability to communicate effectively, collaborate, and resolve conflicts.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Culture: Research Turner & Townsend's company culture, values, and mission. Prepare questions to demonstrate your understanding of the organization and your fit within the team.
Project Delivery: Discuss your experience with project delivery, focusing on cost management, estimating, and procurement processes. Provide examples of your ability to deliver high-quality, sustainable solutions that meet client expectations.
Career Development: Prepare questions about career development opportunities within the Cost Management team or broader organization. Demonstrate your ambition and commitment to long-term growth and success.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy: (N/A - Not Applicable for this role)

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's interview process is designed to assess the candidate's technical skills, cultural fit, and potential for growth within the organization. The company values candidates who are proactive, innovative, and client-focused, with a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Cost Manager - Associate Director role at Turner & Townsend:

Submit Your Application: Click on the 'Apply Now' button on the job listing and follow the instructions to submit your resume, cover letter, and any other required documents.
Prepare for the Phone/Screening: Review the job description, research the company, and prepare for a brief phone or video call to discuss your experience, qualifications, and career goals.
Complete the Technical Assessment: If selected, complete a technical assessment or case study focusing on cost management, estimating, and problem-solving skills.
Prepare for the Behavioral Interview: Reflect on your experience, accomplishments, and career goals, and prepare for a face-to-face or video interview to assess your cultural fit, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.
Finalize Your Application: If invited, prepare for a final interview with senior leadership to discuss the role, company culture, and career development opportunities.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and cost management industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Turner & Townsend before making application decisions.

Associate Director - Cost Manager - Data Center Construction