[Hiring] Mechanical Cost Estimator - Data Center Construction (Anticipated Opening) @Turner & Townsend

Role Description

Turner & Townsend is seeking an experienced Mechanical Estimator to support the delivery of large-scale, mission-critical data center projects. This role plays an important part in helping our teams plan, price, and deliver highly technical facilities where mechanical systems account for a significant portion of construction cost and complexity.

The Mechanical Estimator will be responsible for:

• Preparing detailed mechanical cost estimates for data center projects, including HVAC, chilled water systems, piping, plumbing, and mechanical equipment.
• Performing comprehensive quantity takeoffs from drawings, specifications, and BIM models, including CRAC/CRAH units, chillers, pumps, heat rejection equipment, and mechanical distribution systems.
• Developing accurate labor, material, and equipment pricing models aligned with project budgets and delivery strategies.
• Maintaining historical cost data, benchmarks, and lessons learned to support future estimates.
• Reviewing mechanical contractor and subcontractor pricing to identify scope gaps, cost risk, and value improvement opportunities.
• Supporting value engineering and design optioneering by evaluating alternative system configurations that improve performance, constructability, and cost efficiency.
• Collaborating with engineering and construction teams to inform mechanical system decisions based on cost, schedule, and procurement considerations.
• Identifying and assessing risks related to equipment lead times, specialized labor availability, and market volatility.
• Accounting for regional cost variations across U.S. markets, including labor rates, logistics constraints, and material availability.
• Supporting standardized data center designs and repeatable delivery models, maximizing economies of scale and speed to market.
• Ensuring estimates align with sustainability objectives, energy efficiency standards, and applicable codes and regulations.
• Preparing clear, well-documented estimating deliverables for internal and external stakeholders.
• Participating in cost reviews, procurement discussions, and commercial strategy sessions.
• Supporting change management by evaluating mechanical scope changes and associated cost impacts throughout the project lifecycle.
• Adhering to SOX control responsibilities where applicable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Building Services, or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
• 3–5+ years of experience in mechanical estimating, with strong preference for data center, mission-critical, or complex commercial construction projects.
• Solid technical knowledge of HVAC systems, cooling infrastructure, mechanical codes, and labor productivity rates.
• Experience estimating high-density or high-performance cooling systems is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in estimating and takeoff tools such as Bluebeam, ProEst, Trimble AutoBid, or similar platforms, with comfort interpreting BIM-based information.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

Benefits

• Promotes a healthy, productive, and flexible working environment that respects work-life balance.
• Provides opportunities for personal and professional growth.