Lead Cost Manager (Hyperscaler Data Center Construction)

Job Description

Overview We are seeking a Lead Cost Manager to support a large-scale hyperscale data center construction program as part of an owner's-representative team. This is a senior, self-sufficient role responsible for cost management and controls across a multi-building campus. Direct hyperscale data center experience is required. Candidates should be able to run their site independently and act as the owner's eyes on cost.

Responsibilities

Own cost management across multiple concurrent data center buildings, from budget setup through construction and closeout. Provide owner's-side cost oversight: monitor spend against budget, validate contractor and developer forecasts, and surface variances early. Partner with developers and GCs without directing their execution. Perform deviation analysis between forecast and actual cost, dig into the underlying drivers, and communicate implications to program leadership clearly and early. Validate developer working capital and look-ahead requests against real project progress. Manage the change order lifecycle from creation through approval, supporting change control governance. Oversee contingency management and maintain disciplined cost reporting on a regular cadence. Read cost signals as an indicator of schedule and program health, and coordinate closely with scheduling and project controls. Support cost standards and process where the program framework is still being built, helping establish repeatable practice.

Skills and Requirements

Direct hyperscale data center cost management experience. 5+ years of construction cost management on large, complex programs. Able to run a site independently, owning cost rather than supporting under close direction. Able to be onsite four-plus days per week at the assigned campus. Owner's or client's-side experience, challenging and validating contractor numbers rather than building them from inside a GC. Strong deviation and variance analysis, change control, forecasting, and contingency management. Proficiency with e-Builder, Unifier, or SAP. Ability to give honest guidance, advocate a position, and then commit once a decision is made.

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to [email protected].