Project Controls Manager

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way .

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world-class services, advisory, and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers, and find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades, or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

The role involves overseeing both new builds and renovation projects. The services include conceptual and detailed milestone cost estimates, feasibility studies, master planning, VE & design option reviews, budget reconciliations, Change Order evaluations, project accounting, and forecasting. Attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment is a must. It is essential that this person has strong management, communication skills, and a good knowledge of construction techniques/technology, real estate markets, and project controls.

What This Job Involves:

1. Collaborate with team members to establish, track, and maintain project budgets and cost control reports.
2. Develop and execute project plans, defining project scope, objectives, deliverables, and priorities.
3. Identify and analyze potential risks that may impact project deliverables, schedules, or budgets and develop risk mitigation strategies.
4. Prepare detailed and accurate construction and project cost estimates from conceptual design through final construction documents.
5. Research local market pricing for material, labor, and equipment using published documents, historical data, and performing market studies.
6. Review change orders and support change management, assessing whether changes are within the scope of the base work.
7. Coordinate with project stakeholders to gather data and ensure accurate and timely project status updates.
8. Work collaboratively with various teams to implement lessons learned, best practices, and continuous improvement initiatives on future projects.
9. Stay up-to-date with industry trends, standards, regulations, and best practices related to project controls.

What Your Day-to-Day Will Look Like:

1. Partner with team members to execute complex projects through all stages.
2. Prepare detailed and accurate construction cost and project cost estimates from conceptual design through final construction documents.
3. Understand and relay local market pricing for material, labor, and equipment using published documents, historical data, and performing market studies.
4. Provide value engineering services and design option reviews.
5. Prepare bid analysis and participate in reconciliations with contractors and subcontractors.
6. Review change order reviews and support change management, assessing whether changes are within the scope of the base work.
7. Effectively communicate with and engage team leads and stakeholders.
8. Stay informed on changes to the PDS processes, systems, and reporting and contribute to strategic client initiatives.

Required Qualifications:

1. 2-5 years as an Estimator, Cost Manager, or similar role.
2. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Preference towards Quantity Surveying, Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management.
3. Ability to regularly communicate analyzed data to clients and team to achieve project goals.
4. Strong working knowledge of architectural drawings and planning concepts.
5. Highly organized with strong analytical skills.
6. Strong interpersonal skills with an ability to interact with executive-level external and internal clients as well as external team members (architects, contractors, client’s representatives, etc.).
7. Ability to generate AACE level 1-5 cost evaluations; capable of working conceptually and qualifying unknowns; expertise in estimating software and benchmarking tools.
8. Ability to work collaboratively, independently, and through ambiguity to create structure and consensus.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Knowledge of Cost-X, On-Screen Take-off, or other estimating software.
2. Professional certification in project management (e.g., AACE, RICS).
3. Proficient in project planning and scheduling software tools (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project).
4. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
5. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
6. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
7. Familiarity with procurement and tendering processes.
8. Advanced level in Excel, Project, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Smartsheet.
9. Expert understanding of building systems (MEPFS and architectural).

Location: On-site – Chicago, IL

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!