Senior Manager of Estimating, Project Controls

Privacy Notice for California Applicants and Employees

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Meow Wolf opens portals of possibility. Come as you are! 

We are individuals who inspire creativity in people's lives through art and exploration, so that our combined imaginations can transform the world we live in. We create immersive and interactive experiences that transport audiences into fantastic realms of story and exploration.  Our Vision is to be the world’s leading creative company, reimagining the paradigm of art and storytelling, to make a positive difference in the world.  

We share a strong commitment to Belonging through our values of: 

• Collaborative Creativity: We believe the act of creating together amplifies possibilities.

• Provocative Playfulness: We celebrate the unexpected because it is the doorway to discovery.

• Outsiders Welcome: We are all outsiders at heart, and we create space for everyone to feel like they belong.

• Authentic Compassion:We are “kind punks” - supportive to each other and standing up for what we believe in.

• Audacious Courage: We have the courage to radically reinvent ourselves to push the boundaries of art.

If this all sounds like YOU, read on….

Job Description:

Senior Manager of Estimating, Project Controls

Job Disclosures:

Location:(On-site) Santa Fe, NM

Job Summary:

The Senior Manager of Estimating, Project Controls will oversee the estimating function for all Meow Wolf projects across their full lifecycle,  from early ideation through design, construction, and delivery. This leader will develop, manage, and scale a high-performing estimating team within the Project Controls division. The role is responsible for providing accurate, timely, and comprehensive project cost estimates, integrating risk and market analysis, and ensuring consistency across all projects. This position partners closely with Creative, Finance, Engineering, and Executive Leadership to ensure project feasibility, cost efficiency, and delivery of world-class experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the estimating function within the Project Controls division, ensuring accurate project estimates across all phases.

• Supervise, mentor, and grow a team of estimators and consultants to support current and future project pipelines.

• Establish and maintain standardized estimating procedures, tools, and cost databases.

• Collaborate with Project Development, Creative, Finance, Engineering, and Operations to align scope, budget, and feasibility.

• Partner with Risk Management to develop comprehensive risk registers and incorporate schedule/cost risk analyses into estimates.

• Provide early and ongoing cost analysis, market benchmarking, and trend reporting to Meow Wolf leadership.

• Manage and oversee the selection and direction of external cost consultants, ensuring integration with in-house standards.

• Develop, review, and validate Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), scope documents, and cost forecasts in partnership with Project Controls.

• Ensure that estimates include a thorough assessment of labor, equipment, materials, and market conditions.

• Identify project risks and evaluate contingency strategies to protect budgets and schedules.

• Provide cost oversight during design iterations to ensure the creative vision aligns with financial feasibility.

• Support Executive Leadership with high-level estimating reports, presentations, and scenario analyses for strategic decisions.

• Build and maintain a historical cost database and benchmarking library to improve accuracy and decision-making.

• Champion the estimating process as being a key driver of project success while integrating it into Meow Wolf’s growth strategy.

Required Qualifications:

• 10–12 years of experience in estimating or cost control in construction, themed entertainment, or related industries.

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field, or equivalent experience.

• Proven leadership experience in managing estimating teams and processes.

• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and leadership skills; proven ability to partner with executive and creative leadership.

• Deep understanding of project controls, estimating methodologies, cost systems, and industry best practices.

• Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills.

• Proven ability to balance multiple complex projects, tight deadlines, and shifting priorities.

• High degree of confidentiality, judgment, and accountability.

• Experience in mentoring and developing staff and consultants.

• Proficiency with automated cost systems, risk analysis tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Familiarity with construction, themed entertainment, attractions, or large-scale multidisciplinary projects.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed must be representative of the knowledge, skills, minimum education, training, licensure, experience, and/or ability required.

Work Environment:

This role operates in a combination of office, remote, and occasional on-site project environments. The position requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including finance, operations, project management, and external vendors or contractors. The work environment is fast-paced and deadline-driven, with responsibilities that include cost estimating, forecasting, scheduling, and project performance tracking. The role may require periodic site visits to support project planning and execution, which can involve exposure to active construction or installation environments. Flexibility is required to manage shifting priorities and project timelines.

Physical Demands:

This role is primarily sedentary and requires extended periods of sitting, working at a computer, and analyzing data. The position also involves occasional standing, walking, and site visits, which may require navigating uneven surfaces, construction areas, or exhibition spaces. Minimal lifting (typically up to 20 pounds) may be required. The role requires the ability to communicate effectively, including speaking, listening, and reviewing detailed reports and documentation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

The employee will comply with company and OSHA standard workplace safety protocols. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Schedule:

This is a full-time position that requires the ability to work a flexible schedule. The standard schedule will be Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. or 10 a.m.–6 p.m. MT; however, occasional evening and weekend work may be required as job duties dictate.

Supervisor Responsibilities:

This position does require supervisory responsibility. This role directly supervises estimators and consultants and is responsible for building and scaling the estimating team.

Travel 

This position will require some travel (10%-25%)

Other Duties

Please note that this job description is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee in this role. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

IMPACT: Meow Wolf is committed to our DIY roots and grassroots community support principles. To document that commitment, we converted our legal designation into a Delaware Public B