Senior Cost Manager

Position OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Cost Manager based in the Mid-Hudson Valley, NY to lead all pre-construction activities across our client’s headquarters campuses. This role requires a construction professional who can conduct comprehensive site assessments, develop detailed project scopes and narratives, and create accurate cost estimates using regional and global cost databases. The successful candidate will have deep knowledge of construction markets, local building practices, regulatory requirements, and cost structures. This individual will work closely with regional project teams, clients, and the Director of Cost Management to ensure consistent, high-quality pre-construction deliverables across the region.Key ResponsibilitiesRegional Pre-Construction ExecutionLead all pre-construction activities for PDS projects across New YorkConduct site assessments and feasibility studies at project locations throughout the regionTransform conceptual scope briefs into comprehensive, executable project narratives tailored to local market conditionsDevelop detailed project charters defining scope, approach, phasing, schedule, budget, risks, and execution strategiesEnsure all pre-construction deliverables account for regional considerations including local regulations, building codes, permitting requirements, and construction practicesTravel regularly to project sites In New York region to assess conditions and support project developmentCost Estimating & Budget DevelopmentDevelop accurate, detailed cost estimates for projects across New York regionUtilize multiple cost databases including JLL global cost data, regional pricing indices, local market intelligence, and country-specific benchmarksApply appropriate currency considerations, inflation factors, tax implications, and local cost structuresBuild and maintain regional cost libraries based on completed projects and local subcontractor pricingAccount for import duties, material availability, labor market conditions, and logistics costs unique to each cityValidate estimates through local subcontractor engagement and regional market researchPresent cost estimates with clear assumptions, risk factors, and market condition considerationsAdjust estimating methodologies to reflect differences between markets (e.g., NYC vs. Pughkeepsie)Market Knowledge & IntelligenceMaintain deep understanding of construction market conditions across New York regionMonitor material costs, labor availability, currency fluctuations, and economic factors impacting construction pricingBuild relationships with local contractors, suppliers, and industry professionals throughout the regionStay current on regulatory changes, permitting processes, and compliance requirements across jurisdictionsUnderstand regional construction delivery methods, contracting practices, and industry standardsIdentify country-specific risks including political stability, supply chain constraints, and economic volatilityStakeholder CollaborationPartner with regional project managers to ensure seamless transition from pre-construction to project executionWork closely with clients to understand requirements, budget parameters, and local business considerationsCollaborate with design teams and local consultants on constructability and cost optimizationCoordinate with local facility management and building engineering teams on execution feasibilityReport regularly to Pre-Construction Leader on regional activities, challenges, and opportunitiesQuality & ConsistencyApply global PDS pre-construction standards while adapting to regional requirements and practicesEnsure consistent quality and format of project charters and cost estimates across all projectsImplement feedback and lessons learned to continuously improve regional pre-construction processesMaintain documentation standards enabling clear communication across language and cultural differencesContribute to development of regional best practices and estimating guidelinesRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field7-10 years of construction industry experience with significant focus on pre-construction, estimating, or cost managementProven experience developing cost estimates and project scopes for commercial construction projects in New York regionDeep knowledge of construction practices, material costs, and labor markets in New York regionExperience using cost databases, benchmarking tools, and regional pricing indicesProficiency in cost estimating software and advanced Microsoft ExcelWillingness and ability to travel via car to client sites in New York areaPreferred QualificationsExperience in corporate real estate, tenant improvements, or occupied building renovationsKnowledge of international project delivery including cross-border considerationsFamiliarity with multiple currency management and financial implicationsUnderstanding of import/export regulations and customs processes affecting construction materialsProfessional certifications in estimating, project management, or construction managementExperience with JLL or similar multinational corporate real estate services firmsKey CompetenciesRegional Expertise: Deep understanding of New York construction markets, practices, and cost driversTechnical Proficiency: Strong construction knowledge enabling accurate cost analysis across diverse marketsAnalytical Skills: Methodical approach to data analysis, cost validation, and risk assessmentCultural Agility: Ability to work effectively across diverse cultures, languages, and business environmentsAttention to Detail: Thoroughness in site assessments, cost breakdowns, and consideration of regional factorsCommunication: Clear articulation of complex information across languages and to global audiencesIndependence: Self-directed with ability to manage regional responsibilities with limited direct oversightAdaptability: Flexibility to navigate varying market conditions, regulations, and business practicesRelationship Building: Develops trusted partnerships with local contractors, consultants, and stakeholdersProblem Solving: Identifies creative solutions to regional challenges and constraintsSuccess MetricsAccuracy of cost estimates with minimal variance from actual project costs across the regionTimely delivery of comprehensive project charters and estimates enabling confident project decisionsSuccessful project execution within pre-construction budgetsDevelopment of robust regional cost databases and market intelligencePositive feedback from regional project teams and clients on pre-construction supportEffective collaboration with global Pre-Construction Leader and integration with global standardsPhysical RequirementsAbility to conduct frequent site visits across New York region requiring walking, climbing stairs, and navigating various building conditionsCapability to work in diverse climates and at varying altitudes