Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor (Director / Associate Director)

About the role

Turner & Townsend, a professional services firm covering program management, project management, cost management and consulting across property, infrastructure and natural resources, is looking for an experienced Professional Project Lead Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor in Johannesburg. The role focuses on data centre projects with high-spec technical requirements and fast-track delivery, and involves working closely with the account lead.

Key responsibilities

• Cost planning and estimation: prepare detailed cost estimates and Bills of Quantities, including MEPF systems and equipment, run value engineering, develop multi-scenario forecasts and give cost advice through design and construction.
• Tendering and procurement: manage tenders (prequalification, tender lists, documents, bid evaluation), negotiate with contractors, subcontractors and suppliers, and advise on procurement strategy.
• Contract administration: draft and review contracts to client, FIDIC and JBCC standards, oversee interim valuations, progress payments, change orders and final accounts, and manage claims such as variations and EOTs.
• Financial control: produce monthly cost reports with variance analysis and cash flow, reconcile as-built costs, forecast estimated final costs, and manage project and contract setup, invoicing and internal benchmarking.
• Risk and value management: identify cost risks, mitigate them and advise on value engineering, especially for complex MEPF systems.
• Team leadership: manage and develop the internal project team, collaborate with the account lead, client and project managers, and drive process improvements.
• Business development: develop new business with existing and new clients, take part in bids and client pitches, and keep project case studies and CVs up to date.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Quantity Surveying.
• Professional registration as a Quantity Surveyor (PrQS) with SACQSP or RICS (mandatory).
• Minimum 8-10+ years in quantity surveying within construction (building, civil or infrastructure).
• Data centre experience is advantageous but not essential; MEPF experience is highly beneficial.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and teams at once.

Required skills

• Proficiency in DIMX, CostX, WinQS and Microsoft Excel for measurement and cost management.
• Strong understanding of commercial management, construction contracts and procurement.
• Analytical, negotiation and communication skills.