Preconstruction Cost Estimator - Data Center Construction
turnertownsend
San Francisco, California, United States · San Francisco · United States
Posted May 27, 2026
- Full-time
- Hybrid
- Real estate
- Mid-Senior Level
turnertownsend
San Francisco, California, United States · San Francisco · United States
Posted May 27, 2026
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 programs as we turn challenge into opportunity and complexity into success. Our capabilities include program, 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 program, project and cost management offering in markets around the world. Job Description Turner & Townsend is seeking a construction Preconstruction Cost Estimator to support cost management and estimating services across major capital programs. This role focuses on Civil, Structural, and Architectural (Core & Shell) estimating for large‑scale data center and mission‑critical industrial projects, including multi‑building campus developments, new greenfield facilities, and complex expansion programs across a national portfolio. The successful candidate will play a key role in the preparation and delivery of CSA estimates, supporting project teams throughout all phases of design and construction. The ideal individual brings solid CSA estimating experience within mission‑critical environments and is comfortable operating in fast‑paced, large‑scale construction programs. Responsibilities Prepare detailed CSA cost estimates and cost plans, supporting analysis and presentation of estimates to internal teams and clients. Assist in estimating across all project phases, including conceptual, programming, schematic, design development, and detailed design. Support bid reviews through evaluation of contractor proposals, clarifications, and comparative analyses. Contribute to benchmarking efforts by applying internal and external cost data to support cost validation and reporting. Support value engineering (VE) exercises by developing cost comparisons and evaluating design alternatives. Assist with feasibility studies and preparation of procurement and tender documentation. Support procurement activities including bid list development, bid evaluations, bid summaries, and contract documentation. Perform cost checks, valuations, and support earned‑value reviews on large or complex projects. Collaborate closely with clients, contractors, design teams, and internal project teams to support accurate cost delivery. Participate in the development and improvement of internal estimating tools, templates, and cost data. Prepare clear and well‑structured estimating deliverables and supporting documentation suitable for client review. SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role and must be adhered to where applicable. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related technical field. Typically 4–7 years of experience preparing CSA estimates on large‑scale construction projects. Solid experience in Civil, Structural, and Architectural (Core & Shell) estimating, with working knowledge of related engineering and design disciplines. Prior exposure to mission‑critical environments, such as data centers, high‑tech manufacturing, industrial, or large commercial construction projects. Strong analytical skills with attention to detail in quantity takeoffs, pricing, and cost modeling. Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to support client‑facing estimate discussions. Experience using CostX for 2D/3D takeoff and estimate development is strongly preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with AutoCAD, Navisworks, or similar tools is beneficial. Ability to manage multiple workstreams and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced project environment. Working knowledge of construction procurement methodologies and contract structures. Interest in professional development within cost management and estimating on complex capital programs. Additional Information *On-site presence and requirements may change depending on our client's needs. The salary range for this role is $100K-$145K USD. This range reflects the company's good faith estimate of the base salary for this position at the time of the posting. Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, skills, qualifications, and internal equity. In addition to base salary, employees may be eligible for bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package. 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. Join our social media conversations for more information about Turner & Townsend and our exciting future projects: Twitter Instagram LinkedIn 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.