Cost Manager

New York City, NY – Cost Manager (Owner’s Representative)

Base Salary: $110,000 - $140,000

We are partnering with a leading Owner’s Representative and construction consultancy firm in New York City seeking a Cost Manager with a strong foundation in estimating and project cost control.

This role offers exposure to high-profile developments across commercial, institutional, and mixed-use sectors, supporting projects from initial concept through to completion.

Position Overview

The Cost Manager will act as a trusted advisor to clients, leading all core cost management and estimating activities across multiple concurrent projects. Responsibilities include preparing independent estimates, overseeing budget development, reviewing and negotiating change orders, and contributing to value engineering and cost optimization strategies.

You will play a central role in maintaining financial control, supporting feasibility assessments, developing cost data and benchmarks, and delivering accurate reporting throughout the project lifecycle. Success in this role requires the ability to proactively identify opportunities to enhance value, manage risk, and drive successful commercial outcomes aligned with client expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish, monitor, and update project budgets and cost plans
• Produce detailed estimates across conceptual, schematic, and construction phases
• Perform quantity take-offs using digital measurement tools
• Review design documentation and coordinate with project stakeholders
• Administer RFIs, change orders, and cost tracking processes
• Evaluate contractor bids and lead bid leveling and analysis
• Support procurement strategies and tender processes
• Provide value engineering insights and cost optimization strategies

Ideal Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will bring a proactive, commercially focused approach, with the ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering accurate and reliable cost advice.

• Degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or similar field
• Demonstrated experience across cost management, estimating, and budgeting functions
• Experience working on vertical construction projects within commercial, institutional, or mixed-use sectors
• Strong capability in both conceptual estimating and detailed cost analysis
• Exposure to collaborative delivery models and contractor-led procurement approaches
• Skilled in estimating software, on-screen takeoff platforms, and BIM tools
• Strong technical understanding with the ability to read and interpret construction drawings
• Industry certifications or professional memberships are a plus

This is an in-office role. Candidates must be based in New York City or able to commute.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
• Discretionary bonus
• 401(k)
• Medical and dental insurance
• Generous PTO