Senior Cost Estimator – Retail Construction (Will Relocate)

Senior Cost Estimator - Retail Construction

Company: Turner & Townsend
Location: Cupertino, California (Hybrid - 3 days/week onsite)
Salary: $140K-$155K per year

About Turner & Townsend

Turner & Townsend is a global professional services company with over 22,000 people across more than 60 countries. We partner with clients in real estate, infrastructure, and energy to deliver impactful projects. Majority-owned by CBRE Group, Inc., we offer expertise in programme, project, cost, and commercial management, alongside net zero and digital solutions.

About the Role

Turner & Townsend is seeking a Senior Cost Estimator to support a global technology client on innovative retail construction projects in Cupertino, California. This role is crucial for developing accurate cost estimates and ensuring financial feasibility from pre-construction through project completion. The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical skills, deep knowledge of construction cost drivers, and excellent collaboration abilities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate and detailed cost estimates for retail construction projects (new builds, remodels, tenant improvements, renovations).
• Interpret drawings and specifications to assess scope and apply knowledge of materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor pricing.
• Identify and quantify all direct and indirect costs, including site work, building systems, and finishes.
• Perform value engineering to help clients meet budget goals without compromising quality.
• Develop and maintain cost databases using historical pricing and industry trends.
• Assist in soliciting and reviewing subcontractor and supplier bids.
• Analyze bid proposals and contracts to identify discrepancies.
• Prepare cost analysis reports and present findings to clients and senior management.
• Monitor construction costs throughout the project lifecycle to ensure budget adherence.
• Provide regular updates on cost status and potential financial risks.
• Assist in forecasting and managing project cash flow.
• Collaborate with project managers, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to align scope and cost.
• Attend project meetings and provide input on cost management and budget changes.
• Maintain detailed records of estimates, change orders, and documentation for auditing.
• Prepare and submit formal reports, including budget summaries and variance analyses.
• Identify and assess cost risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Stay current on industry trends, economic factors, and regulatory changes.
• Adhere to SOX control responsibilities where applicable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in cost estimating within retail construction or related sectors (e.g., commercial, hospitality, institutional).
• Deep understanding of cost estimation, including materials, labor, and specialized systems in retail environments.
• Knowledge of local construction codes, regulations, and industry standards.
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., ProEst, Buildertrend, Procore, Bluebeam).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Estimator certification (e.g., AACE, ASPE) is a plus.

Additional Information

• Hybrid Role: Requires onsite presence three days per week (Tuesday–Thursday) at the client’s Cupertino campus.
• Turner & Townsend promotes a healthy, productive, and flexible working environment that respects work-life balance.
• We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Note: On-site presence and requirements may change depending on client needs. All information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.