Senior Cost Manager
San Francisco (open to relocation or local candidates)
$130,000-$155,000 + Bonus

We are representing a rapidly expanding Cost Consultancy headquartered in New York, with additional offices across the Mid-West and West Coast. The business has undergone significant growth over the last few years and recently entered into a strategic partnership with a leading global consultancy, creating new opportunities for collaboration and international exposure.

The company delivers independent cost and project delivery services to a broad range of Fortune 500 clients, with a strong focus on technology, life sciences, real estate, and mission-critical sectors. They pride themselves on their collaborative, forward-thinking culture, reflecting that of their high-tech and life sciences client base, while providing excellent progression, responsibility, and learning opportunities to their team members.

The Role – Senior Cost Manager

Based in San Francisco, this is an exciting opportunity for an experienced cost professional to take a leading role on a large pharmaceutical campus project for one of the world's leading life sciences companies. Candidates already based in the Bay Area are welcome to apply, and relocation support may be available for strong candidates coming from elsewhere. You'll take ownership of cost management delivery on a high-profile, mission-critical development encompassing lab, R&D, manufacturing, and office/amenity space, while mentoring junior team members and helping shape the firm's broader portfolio across tech campuses, retail, hotels, hospitality, and creative studio facilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead cost management delivery on a large-scale pharmaceutical campus project, including lab, R&D, and GMP manufacturing space.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed cost estimates, budgets, and cost plans, accounting for the specialized systems and compliance requirements typical of life sciences facilities.
• Lead tender processes, including strategy, documentation, and contractor negotiations.
• Manage post-contract services, including valuations, change management, and final accounts, with a high degree of autonomy.
• Take ownership of client financial reporting, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and confidence in project delivery.
• Drive decision-making through benchmarking, value engineering, and risk analysis, advising clients at a strategic level.
• Act as a senior client-facing representative, building and maintaining trusted, long-term relationships.
• Mentor and support the development of Assistant Cost Managers and Cost Managers within the team.
• Contribute to business development and support the growth of the wider practice.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction, or a related discipline.
• 7–12 years of experience in cost management, with a strong track record on large-scale, complex real estate projects; life sciences, pharmaceutical, or lab/R&D experience highly valued.
• Deep understanding of both pre- and post-contract phases, with proven experience leading these independently.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated experience mentoring or managing junior staff.
• U.S. citizenship, existing right to work in the U.S., or eligibility for an E2/E3 visa.

Why Join?

• Be part of a consultancy with a start-up mentality, backed by the platform and resources of a global partner.
• Lead delivery on a high-profile pharmaceutical campus project, plus exposure to the firm's broader portfolio across tech offices, retail, hotels, hospitality, and creative studios.
• Relocation support may be available for candidates outside the Bay Area.
• Clear pathway toward Associate/Director-level roles, with genuine influence over team growth and client strategy.
• A collaborative, modern working culture designed to support professional growth.