Cost Manager / Estimator / Quantity Surveyor

Location: San Francisco, CA (Hybrid/On-site)

Role Type: Full-Time

Sector: Owner’s Representative / Project Management Consultancy

Project Focus: Commercial Tenant Improvement (TI)

We are seeking high-caliber Cost Managers and an Associate Director to join our San Francisco team. Operating as a key representative for our clients (Owners/Developers), you will lead the financial management of complex Tenant Improvement (TI) projects.

This role requires a blend of technical estimating precision and strategic commercial management. For the Associate Director level, we are looking for a "player/coach" who can lead high-stakes projects, mentor junior staff, and refine internal cost management processes.

• Budgeting & Estimating: Develop detailed conceptual budgets and cost estimates from early-stage design through construction documents for high-end TI projects.
• Procurement & Tendering: Lead the contractor pre-qualification process, manage bid leveling, and provide recommendations for award.
• Post-Contract Management: Manage monthly valuations, change order reviews, and progress payments to ensure the project remains within the approved budget.
• Risk Management: Identify financial risks early and provide mitigation strategies; maintain robust contingency management.
• Client Advisory: Act as a trusted advisor to the Owner, providing clear financial reporting, cash flow forecasting, and value engineering options.
• Leadership (Associate Director level): Manage a small team of cost professionals, oversee resource allocation, and contribute to business development and client relationship management.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience:
• Senior Cost Manager: 5–7 years of experience in cost management or estimating.
• Associate Director: 7–12 years of experience, with a proven track record of managing people and multi-million dollar project portfolios.
• Sector Expertise: Strong background in Commercial Tenant Improvements (TI). Experience with high-spec office fit-outs, tech campuses, or retail TI is highly preferred.
• Professional Accreditation: RICS (MRICS/FRICS) status is highly preferred. We will also consider candidates currently pursuing RICS chartership or those with a strong background in traditional Quantity Surveying.
• Software Proficiency: Expert level in Excel; proficiency with estimating software (e.g., CostX, On-Center, Bluebeam).
• Local Market Knowledge: Strong understanding of the San Francisco/Bay Area labor market and subcontractor landscape.

• Analytical Mindset: You enjoy the "nitty-gritty" of a spreadsheet but can communicate the "big picture" to a client.
• Negotiation Skills: Ability to challenge general contractors on pricing and change orders fairly but firmly.
• Player/Coach Mentality (AD Level): You are comfortable leading a client meeting in the morning and diving into a detailed take-off in the afternoon.

• Competitive salary on offer for both Cost Manager & Ad Role
• Comprehensive benefits package (Healthcare, 401k match, PTO).
• Professional development support for RICS/AACE certifications.
• Opportunity to work on landmark projects for some of the world’s most recognizable brands in San Francisco.