Darden Architects is seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented Construction Cost Estimator to support project planning and budgeting efforts for a wide range of public-sector and institutional projects throughout California.

The Construction Cost Estimator position will work closely with architects, project managers, interior designers, and firm leadership to develop conceptual and detailed construction cost estimates during all phases of project development. Responsibilities will include evaluating project scope, schedule, reviewing drawings and specifications, preparing quantity takeoffs, developing unit costs, and coordinating with teams to establish budgets.

This role will also support project teams during planning and programming phases by providing budgeting guidance. The estimator will also review consultants’ budgets, provide costs for alternates, and review schedules of values.

Other responsibilities will include:

· Prepare conceptual, schematic, and detailed construction cost estimates

· Develop quantity takeoffs from drawings and BIM Models

· Maintain internal construction cost databases

· Post bid SOV review

· Participate in project meetings with clients, consultants, and contractors

· Assist with value engineering and constructability reviews

· Monitor construction market trends, material pricing, and labor conditions.

· Assist in the preparation of funding applications (SDW, CTE)

Education, skills, and experience:

• Degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field experience preferred
• Experience in construction estimating, architecture, commercial, and institutional construction
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and building systems
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and/or construction estimating software, and BIM & 3D Modeling software
• Ability to read and interpret architectural and engineering drawings
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to prioritize concurrent tasks and work collaboratively across teams
• Experience with public-sector or educational projects required
• Familiarity with California construction markets and DSA/HCAI projects is a plus

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary range $70,000 - $100,000 annually dependent upon experience, and includes a comprehensive benefits package:

• 401(k) matching
• Health Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off

About Darden Architects

Darden Architects is driven by imagination, craft, and a desire to produce enduring value through artistic skill and innovation. Founded in 1959, we prioritize design excellence by staying aligned with functional trends and continually evolving with intention. We move forward with purpose, not just momentum. We’re driven by a deep aversion to stagnation, inauthenticity, and mediocrity. Our mindset fuels a culture rooted in ongoing learning, a readiness for what’s next, and a disciplined commitment to thoughtful, refined design. Words like stability, vision, enduring value, and “think different” resonate, reflecting our undertone of creative exploration. We inspire through progression toward design excellence, proving capability in complex, regulated industries while maturing into trusted leadership.

Darden Architects is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and internship. Darden Architects makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

Pay: $70,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person