Strategic Estimator

Microsoft Cloud Operations and Innovation (CO+I) is the team behind the cloud.  Within CO+I, the Global Project Controls (GPC) team is responsible for delivering core datacenter infrastructure for Microsoft’s cloud business. The MS portfolio consists of complex, multi-disciplinary, large scale, multi-year datacenter construction and lease projects. We are looking for passionate, high-energy individuals to help build the cloud datacenters that power the world’s largest online services.  

The Strategic Estimator is responsible for the development and maintenance of estimates for all new Technology & Innovative Datacenter builds globally. This role will concentrate on strategic & innovative projects as well as annual baselining of our standard datacenter models which will entail Cost Estimating and Cost Management as the overall role. The Strategic Estimator will manage cost data, communications, schedule meetings and be a point of contact between internal and external parties for specific projects being supported. The Strategic Estimator will work closely with engineering, construction, security, networking, and operations teams throughout each project and ensure cost information is developed and managed meet the requirements of those specific project needs. The Strategic Estimator will report directly to the Strategic Estimating Lead and will have dotted-line interactions with Regional Project Estimators & Cost Managers to continue implementing lessons learned. Being part of this team would give you an opportunity to be part of a rapidly growing business and enable global impact.

This role is located either in one or all hub locations: Atlanta, GA, Phoenix, AZ, Redmond, WA, San Antonio, TX, or Washington, DC. Relocation support will be provided, and successful candidates must ​relocate or reside within 50 miles of the hub office location. This role is eligible for hybrid or remote work, up to 100%.

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Estimate the cost of our datacenter projects to support the short- and long-term plans for the corporation.
• Partner collaboratively with cross-functional teams (design engineering, construction, cost controls functions, scheduling, finance, etc.) to understand requirements and ensure alignment to scope, schedule, and budget.
• Develop and maintain estimating databases and templates specific to the role.
• Report out to senior managers on estimate data, project cost progress and assumptions to ensure a clear and concise message is sent and understood.
• Perform different types of estimates and projects, while keeping delivery dates as a top priority.  
• Provide day-to-day Cost Management activities, as required, to maintain the projects financial reporting and logging systems i.e. a good understanding of commitments & forecasting spends for monthly, quarterly & the fiscal year.
• Support, develop and improve estimating and cost management processes and procedures; drive standardization and consistency throughout the group.
• Manage commercial issues on all current, future, and past projects and report on these issues through the Project Controls & Construction Management head office in Redmond on a regular basis.
• Embody our Culture and Values

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field AND 5+ years experience in construction estimating on major construction portfolios
  • OR equivalent experience.
• Experience with electrical discipline estimating
• Experience in the full Construction Life Cycle
• Experience performing all forms and types of estimates, including parametric, bottoms up, and high level what-if scenarios.

Other Requirements:

• Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include but are not limited to the following specialized security s