Cost Estimator – Retail Construction

Company Description

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 a Cost Estimator to support a global tech client on innovative retail construction projects. This role focuses on developing accurate and detailed cost estimates while also supporting benchmarking, cost tracking, and indexing efforts to ensure financial feasibility and performance throughout the project lifecycle.

The ideal candidate will bring strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with project teams, contractors, and clients.

This position offers a flexible hybrid schedule, allowing for a balanced mix of remote work and onsite collaboration.
 

Responsibilities:

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for retail construction projects, including new builds, remodels, tenant improvements, and renovations.
• Interpret drawings and specifications to assess scope and apply knowledge of materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor pricing.
• Support benchmarking efforts by analyzing historical cost data and industry trends to inform future estimates and planning.
• Develop and maintain cost databases and indexes to track pricing fluctuations and regional cost variations.
• Monitor construction costs throughout the project lifecycle, providing regular updates and variance analysis to ensure adherence to budget.
• Perform value engineering to help clients meet budget goals without compromising quality or functionality.
• Assist in soliciting and evaluating bids from subcontractors and suppliers, ensuring competitiveness and alignment with project requirements.
• Review bid proposals and contracts to identify discrepancies or inconsistencies.
• Prepare cost analysis reports and present findings to clients and senior management.
• Forecast and manage cash flow requirements for retail construction projects.
• Collaborate with project managers, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure alignment between scope, design, and cost projections.
• Attend project meetings and provide input on cost management, budget changes, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Maintain detailed records of cost estimates, change orders, and project documentation for reference and auditing.
• Identify and assess potential cost risks during pre-construction and construction phases, recommending mitigation strategies.
• Stay current on industry trends, economic factors, and regulatory changes that may impact project costs or timelines.
• SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role and must be adhered to where applicable.

Qualifications

• Comfortable with a flexible hybrid work schedule, with site visits as required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in cost estimating within retail construction or related sectors (e.g., commercial, hospitality, institutional).
• Strong expertise in cost estimation, with the ability to develop detailed budgets and pricing models across all project phases.
• Experience in benchmarking and cost tracking, including maintaining cost databases and analyzing historical pricing data.
• Proficiency with cost estimating software (e.g., ProEst, Buildertrend, Procore, Bluebeam, or similar).
• Solid analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and identify cost optimization opportunities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams and present findings clearly.

Additional Information

The salary range for this full-time role is $100K-$145K 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 p