Senior Cost Manager

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Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you're looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.
The Senior Cost Manager is responsible for delivering controls and cost management services. This role is for a single client and will involve both new build and renovation projects across the US. The services include conceptual and detailed milestone cost estimates, feasibility studies, master planning, VE & design option reviews, budget reconciliations, Change Order evaluations, project accounting and forecasting. Attention to detail, strong communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment is a must and it is essential that this person has good knowledge of construction techniques/technology and real estate markets. Expectations for the Senior cost manager to lead projects and teams.
What This Job Involves:
• Collaborate with stakeholders to establish and track project budgets.
• Work with stakeholders to maintain project cost control reports, including tracking actual costs against estimated budgets.
• Assist in the reviewing and assessment of all scope of works for all stakeholders to ensure that appropriate descriptions and detail is given, ensuring no gaps in work and that all costs are accounted for.
• Identify and analyse potential risks that may impact project deliverables, timelines, or budgets.
• Prepare detailed and accurate construction cost and project cost estimates from conceptual design through final construction documents.
• Research local market pricing for material, labor, and equipment using published documents, historical data, and performing market studies.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies and monitor their implementation.
• Coordinate with project stakeholders to gather data and provide accurate and timely project status updates.
• Review and analyze project documentation to ensure compliance with organizational and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with project teams to implement lessons learned and best practices on future projects.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices related to project controls.
What Your Day-to-Day Will Look Like:
• Partner with team members to execute complex projects through all stages.
• Prepare detailed and accurate construction cost and project cost estimates from conceptual design through final construction documents.
• Understand and be able to relay local market pricing for material, labor, and equipment using published documents, historical data, and performing market studies.
• Provide value engineering services and design option reviews.
• Provide bid analysis and participate in reconciliations with contractors and subcontractors.
• Review change order reviews and support change management, assessing whether changes are within the scope of the base work.
• Effectively communicates to and engage with team leads and stakeholders
• Stays informed on changes to the PDS processes, systems and reporting and contributes to strategic client initiatives.
Required Qualifications:
• 5 -10 years as an Estimator, Cost Manager or similar role.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Preference towards Quantity Surveying, Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management.
• Ability to regularly communicate analyzed data to client and team to achieve project goals
• Strong working knowledge of architectural drawings and planning concepts.
• Highly organized with strong analytical skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with an ability to interact with executive level external and internal clients as well as external team members (architects, contractors, client's representatives, etc.).
• Aggregates and translates outputs into marketable deliverables (e.g. Case Studies, White Papers and quarterly metrics.)
• Ability to generate AACE level 1-5 cost evaluations; capable of working conceptually and qualifying unknowns; expertise in estimating software and benchmarking tools
• Ability to work collaboratively, independently and through ambiguity to create structure and consensus.
• Ability to lead teams and interact with clients
Preferred Qualifications:
• Knowledge of Cost-X, On-Screen Takeoff or other estimating software.
• Professional certification in project management (e.g., AACE, RICS).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Intermediate to Expert level in Excel, Project, PowerPoint and SharePoint and Smartsheet
• Expert understanding of building system (MEPFS and architectural)
• Familiarity with procurement and tendering processes.
Estimated compensation for this position:
100,000.00 - 145,000.00 USD per year
This range is an estimate and actual compensation may differ. Final compensation packages are determined by various considerations including but not limited to candidate qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations.
Location:
On-site -Chicago, IL
If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet all the requirements. We're interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!
Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:
JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays

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