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Senior Manager, Cost Estimating
Cushman & WakefieldUnited Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 12 Aug 2026
💰 $185,000/yr($157,250/yr – $185,000/yr)
About the role
Job Title
Senior Manager, Cost EstimatingJob Description Summary
The Senior Manager, Cost Estimating is responsible for leading cost estimating efforts in support of large-scale capital programs and construction projects. This individual will oversee the development of conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction estimates while partnering closely with project management, project controls, design teams, construction partners, and clients to ensure accurate cost planning and forecasting throughout the project lifecycle.The Senior Manager will provide technical expertise in estimating methodologies, cost benchmarking, market analysis, and cost risk assessment across complex projects. This role will also contribute to the enhancement of estimating processes, tools, and best practices while supporting the development and mentorship of estimating professionals.
The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with strong analytical skills and experience supporting large capital projects across industries such as advanced manufacturing, life sciences, healthcare, data centers, industrial facilities, and commercial developments.
Job Description
Responsibilities
- Lead the preparation and review of conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction-level cost estimates for complex capital projects.
- Collaborate with project teams to develop cost plans, project budgets, and financial forecasts throughout the project lifecycle.
- Support the implementation and continuous improvement of estimating standards, methodologies, tools, and best practices.
- Analyze market conditions, labor availability, material pricing, escalation trends, and regional cost drivers to inform estimate development.
- Develop and maintain cost benchmarking data and historical cost information to improve estimate accuracy.
- Partner with project controls teams to align estimating activities with budgeting, forecasting, and reporting processes.
- Participate in value engineering workshops and cost optimization initiatives with project stakeholders.
- Review contractor bids, change orders, third-party estimates, and cost proposals for completeness and accuracy.
- Support project governance reviews and client presentations by providing cost analysis and estimating insights.
- Identify project cost risks and opportunities and recommend mitigation strategies.
- Ensure quality and consistency of estimating deliverables across projects and programs.
- Collaborate with engineering, procurement, construction, and project management teams to support successful project
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