Associate Cost Analyst– Data Center
The Associate Cost Analyst supports cost management and project controls for large-scale data center and mission-critical construction projects. This role involves assisting with budgeting, cost estimating, tracking, forecasting, change management, and risk mitigation throughout the project lifecycle, collaborating closely with project teams to ensure accurate financial tracking and successful project delivery.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Trade & Construction.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role overview
Confidential Client is hiring an Associate Cost Analyst — Data Center to support cost management and project-controls activities on large-scale data center and mission‑critical construction projects. This is an entry-level to early-career role ideal for candidates with 0–2 years of relevant experience who want hands-on exposure to estimating, budgeting, cost tracking, forecasting, and change management within a technical construction environment.
Position details
Confidential Client — Lufkin, TX
Employment type: Contract / Full time
Salary: $54,000 - $80,000 per year (range provided by the employer)
Industry: Trade & Construction
What you’ll do (Key Responsibilities)
- Assist with establishing, tracking, and maintaining project budgets and cost control reports.
- Support cost management across the full project lifecycle: planning, design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and closeout.
- Prepare conceptual, milestone, and detailed construction cost estimates under senior guidance.
- Support estimating for mission‑critical infrastructure and major construction packages.
- Track actual project costs against approved budgets and forecasts; identify variances and budget risks.
- Support development of project forecasts and cost‑to‑complete reporting.
- Review contractor proposals, bids, and subcontractor pricing; participate in bid analysis and reconciliations.
- Assist with review and tracking of change orders, scope modifications, and project variations.
- Support risk identification and the development/tracking of mitigation strategies related to budget, schedule, procurement, and construction.
- Maintain accurate project cost records, logs, and supporting documentation.
- Support cost analysis for major data center systems and infrastructure, which may include:
- Electrical distribution, switchgear, transformers
- UPS and battery systems, emergency generators
- Mechanical and cooling systems (chillers, cooling towers, HVAC)
- Fire protection, life safety systems, building automation and controls
- Assist with procurement cost tracking for major equipment packages and long‑lead materials.
- Support preparation of project cost reports, presentations, and client‑facing financial updates.
- Maintain awareness of construction market trends, labor and material pricing, and industry standards.
Required qualifications
- 0–2 years of experience in estimating, cost management, project controls, construction, or a related field. Internship, co‑op, or academic project experience considered.
- Bachelor’s degree (or pursuing a degree) in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, Finance, or a related discipline.
- Basic understanding of construction estimating and cost management principles.
- Basic ability to read and interpret architectural, mechanical, and electrical drawings.
- Strong analytical and numerical skills with attention to detail.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with project teams and external stakeholders.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline‑driven environment.
- Willingness to learn construction estimating software, benchmarking tools, and project controls systems.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Preferred qualifications
- Previous exposure to data center, mission‑critical, commercial, industrial, or large‑scale construction projects.
- Familiarity with mechanical and electrical building systems.
- Experience or exposure to estimating, takeoff, or construction management software.
- Experience with Microsoft Project, PowerPoint, SharePoint, or Smartsheet.
- Interest in pursuing professional certification such as AACE or RICS.
- Basic proficiency with project planning or scheduling tools.
- Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to adapt to changing priorities.
Why join
- Hands‑on learning with senior cost managers on technically complex, high‑visibility data center projects.
- Exposure to industry best practices in estimating, forecasting, and project controls.
- Competitive pay range ($54k–$80k) and opportunities for professional development and certification.
- Collaborative project teams and clear mentorship for early‑career growth.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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