Junior Cost Manager (Los Angeles)

Job Title: Junior Cost Manager

Location: Los Angeles, LA

Salary: $100,000 - $140,000

Fortiva are delighted to be partnering with a forward-thinking Owner's Representative firm in Los Angeles to help recruit them a new Junior Cost Manager. This is a critical hire for my client, as they expand and grow into new territories across the US.

As the Junior Cost Manager, you will work on a diverse array of projects across the state of California, supporting and liaising with the internal team and Senior Cost Manager, you will be given the opportunity to learn and grow and develop your own skills under a mentor.

Projects span from new build and major developments, refurbishment and fit out, tenant fit out to project delivery and strategic planning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the preparation of detailed cost estimates, budgets, cost plans, RFPs, cost reports, cash flow forecasts, and value engineering analyses under the supervision of a senior cost manager.
• Support ongoing cost control and reporting activities by maintaining cost plans, tracking budget changes, and assisting with variance analysis.
• Assist with the review of pay applications and requisitions, including verification of backup documentation, lien waiver tracking, and tenant improvement (TI) reimbursement support.
• Support change management processes by logging, reviewing, and analysing change orders and their cost impacts.
• Compile and analyse cost data for industry benchmarking and internal cost databases.
• Assist in the preparation of client-facing reports, summaries and presentation materials.
• Coordinate cost information as designs develops, ensuring estimates and reports are updated accurately and in a timely manner.
• Work closely with senior team members in an office-based environment, gaining exposure to multiple projects across various stages of design and construction.

Key Requirements:

• One to three years of experience in estimating, cost management, or a related role within construction, real estate, civil engineering or development.
• Basic understanding of construction costs, assemblies, and project financial principles.
• Prior experience in an office-based estimating, cost control, or project support role is preferred.
• Familiarity with spreadsheets, cost models, and reporting tools, with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to analyse numerical data accurately and follow established processes and procedures.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team environment.
• Willingness to learn, accept guidance, and develop professionally within a cost management career path.
• Interest in pursuing professional certifications such as AACE, RICS, CCM, or similar credentials.

If interested, please send your resume to [email protected] I will then schedule an informal conversation to see how this role aligns with your future,