Lead Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor - Data Center Construction

Lead Cost Manager

From the inception of a project through to completion and beyond, Turner & Townsend help to deliver the outcomes that matter through transformational projects covering the full spectrum of consultancy, project delivery and post-project operations. With offices located globally, you're never far away from our services. With over 22,000 specialists in more than 60 countries, we blend local knowledge with global insight to tackle challenges of any scale. Our team is dynamic, innovative and client-focused, supported by an inclusive and fun company culture. Our clients value our proactive approach, depth of expertise, integrity and the quality we deliver. As a result, our people get to enjoy working on some of the most exciting projects in the world.

Job Description

Turner & Townsend is seeking an experienced Lead Cost Manager to spearhead cost management efforts on complex, mission-critical data center construction projects in the Dallas, TX area. This role is client-facing and pivotal in driving financial performance, strategic alignment, and operational excellence across large-scale programs. You will oversee all aspects of cost planning and control from concept through closeout, while managing a team of cost professionals and collaborating with internal stakeholders, external partners, and clients. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in estimating, procurement, and financial management, with a strong understanding of MEP systems and high-value construction budgets.

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct cost management across all phases of data center projects, ensuring alignment with scope, budget, and schedule.
• Develop and oversee detailed cost plans, estimates, and benchmarking strategies.
• Manage change control processes, including negotiation of change orders and resolution of cost variances.
• Guide collaboration with design teams, contractors, and vendors to validate estimates and perform quantity surveying.
• Present executive-level cost reports and financial updates to clients and senior stakeholders.
• Lead contractor pricing reviews, scope validation, and procurement strategy development.
• Champion continuous improvement and standardization of cost management practices across projects.
• Mentor and manage junior cost managers, fostering a high-performance team culture.
• Cultivate strong client relationships and act as a trusted advisor on commercial matters.
• Support pre-construction activities including feasibility studies, cost modeling, and risk analysis.
• Lead commercial negotiations and contract administration for major packages.
• Contribute to business development efforts by supporting proposals, client presentations, and strategic growth initiatives.
• SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.

Qualifications

Additional Information

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.