Are you a perfect fit for the Giraffe team?

Giraffe Design Build is seeking a talented, qualified Residential Construction Estimator with strong design and organizational skills, an aptitude for problem solving and the ability to take a leadership role in a collaborative work environment. Knowledge of custom residential construction, estimating and communication skills, and strategic thinking are essential. We specialize in high-end residential design in Washtenaw County, with a strong presence in Ann Arbor and studio base in Chelsea, Michigan. Giraffe Design Build offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical, paid holidays, wellness benefit, and paid time off. We support continuing education and professional development of our staff.

Estimators at Giraffe Design Build collaborate with the design team and build team on projects from inception through to the completion of the build. We recognize the importance of a work/life balance for longevity in our careers. Typical work schedules are M-F, 8-hour days, with flexibility to enjoy Michigan’s beautiful seasons. This is not a remote-eligible position.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Review client specifications for projects and provide accurate estimates
• Confirm subcontractors are providing accurate pricing based on complete understanding of plans and specifications for the project
• Negotiate costs with suppliers and subcontractors 
• Solicit, develop and maintain long-term relationships with qualified subcontractors, suppliers, and manufacturers
• Present budgets to clients and maintain good client relations throughout the  project
• Consistently update budget to identify cost and supply issues, review budget changes with team
• Update schedules and work timetables for transparency and project progress
• Track progress of each project against approved budgets and timelines
• Review and understand project specifications, architectural documents, blueprints to provide accurate estimates and bids
• Review proposals and contracts for feasibility, cost, and scheduling issues
• Identify cost concerns and review with teams
• Communicate with team members to ensure you have a complete and accurate understanding of the project’s scope of work and the design intent
• Create and maintain an accurate historical cost database 
• Review and negotiate subcontractor bids to select the highest quality, design appropriate, and most cost-effective options
• Ensure on-time deliveries and adequate material resources

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum 3-5 experience writing detailed estimates
• Self-motivated and able to perform duties with minimal supervision
• Own the project from the first estimate through project completion
• Possess a complete and detailed understanding of all pricing documents and be able to present to clients and answer questions 
• Present budgets to clients and maintain good client relations throughout lifecycle of project
• A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a professional degree, preferably in Construction Management, or equivalent experience
• Minimum of five (5) years, full-time experience in estimating custom residential homes, new home designing and building and/or remodeling projects
• Proficient in BuilderTrend, MS Office, Asana, Google Documents, Gmail, and Box
• Perform well under tight deadlines with multiple projects 
• Proficient in the use of a personal computer to maintain accurate up to date budgets, and review construction projects
• Willing and able to learn online applications and use proficient on a daily basis
• Excellent communication skills 
• Working knowledge of residential construction methods, techniques and systems; and building codes 
• Complete understanding of the build process and steps, construction experience a big plus
• Appreciation for craftsmanship and design
• Work well as an active team member, and interact professionally with clients
• Assist with reconciling allowances

Preferred:

• Hands-on experience in residential custom home remodeling as a carpenter or other tradesperson in a similar field or equivalent experience
• Ability to identify needed process changes and participate in improving procedures 
• Master’s degree in construction management, civil engineering or architecture

Please apply only if you have residential design build experience, and you live near Ann Arbor MI or are planning to relocate. This is a hands-on, in person position. 

 

Giraffe Design Build is an equal employment opportunity employer (EEOC). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Giraffe Design Build is seeking talented, qualified Residential Apprentice Carpenters with strong desire to learn and practice carpentry, an ability to develop and apply learned skills, an aptitude for problem solving, a positive attitude and the ability to work in a collaborative work environment. Some knowledge of residential construction and excellent communication skills are essential. We specialize in high-end residential design in Washtenaw County, with a strong presence in Ann Arbor and studio base in Chelsea, Michigan. Giraffe Design Build offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical, paid holidays, wellness benefit, and paid time off, gas allowance and tool stipend. We support continuing education and professional development of our staff.

Apprentice Carpenters at Giraffe Design Build work with the build team on projects from the start of the build to the completion of the project. We recognize the importance of a work/life balance for longevity in our careers. Typical work schedules are M-F, 8-hour days, with flexibility to enjoy Michigan’s beautiful seasons. This is not a remote-eligible position.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Reliable member of our construction team with a keen focus on quality and craftsmanship
• Work closely with carpenters to learn all aspects of the trade
• Assist construction team with all tasks including keeping the job site tidy, demolition, framing, drywall, cabinetry and window installation, finishing carpentry, etc
• Possess the ability to become an integral team member embracing and encouraging our company values of trust, safety, teamwork, responsibility, and service
• Strive to exceed expectations for quality, craftsmanship, and schedule
• Learn to read and interpret construction documents and drawings
• Load and unload materials, carry tools to and from the job site
• Develop problem solving skills and resourcefulness to provide and build positive solutions

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge and experience in residential carpentry is beneficial but not required
• Physical strength for vigorous work with a positive attitude
• Willingness to learn and take direction from carpenters
• Self motivated, hard working, dependable, and ready to work full time
• Good communication skills and basic math skills
• Provide basic hand tools
• Willingness to purchase further tools as needed

 

Giraffe Design Build is an equal employment opportunity employer (EEOC). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Please submit your resume, portfolio, and samples of work demonstrating your design ability and interests to

[email protected]

 Limit file size to 10MB.

 

About Giraffe:

We are a rapidly growing, award winning, client centric, design driven company looking for highly organized, motivated team members. We are looking for excellent communication skills, team players that strive to delight our clients and each other at every turn. With these skills, a sense of humor, and some kindness, you can help Giraffe become a premier Triple Bottom Line, design + build company that delights both people and planet.

Giraffe Design Build strives to create works of beauty to go beyond function. Our mission starts with design. An inspired design which becomes more than the sum of its parts. An inspired design which synthesizes space, flow, style, project goals melding them together to bring form to function.

About the Job:

As Giraffe’s design team leader you will have a direct impact on Giraffe’s culture by modeling our core values each day, owning a client’s new space creation from start to finish. 

The Lead Architectural Designer is an empathetic leader who expects the best from their team and is empowered to resource them accordingly. This job requires navigating the challenges inherent to leading a team of highly proficient designers; training and process improvement for the department; and serving as the face of Giraffe in this client-facing role. Successful leadership styles in a Lead Architectural Designer is about serving the needs of the team, the project, our clients and the business as a whole. Which includes having a passion for success through honoring the contributions of each team member.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead all phases of architectural design: schematic design and presentation, design development, construction documentation, construction administration, and permitting.
• Produce working drawings and 3D models (renderings a plus)
• Prepare accurate and coordinated documents with the project team and lead carpenters
• Provide support during the construction phase on a variety of projects simultaneously
• Build and maintain long-term relationships with the key subcontractors and vendors
• Review and approve Design accounts payable with accounting
• Identify needed process changes and participate in improving procedures
• Training and regular performance reviews for design team members
• Assign and manage design projects throughout the lifecycle of each project
• Identify and implement triple bottom line initiatives

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture required, M.Arch preferred
• Minimum of 5 years full-time experience in an architectural firm, with project lead experience
• Enthusiastic and inspiring passion for great design
• High team leadership acumen – communication and organizational skills
• Familiarity with BuilderTrend or CoConstruct
• Proficiency in Archicad. Adobe Creative Suite a plus
• 3D modeling, visualization & presentation skills
• Firm knowledge of applicable building codes, accessibility, code research, and permit coordination
• Strong graphic skills
• Well-versed in all facets of residential building envelope design and construction

Please submit your resume, portfolio, and samples of work demonstrating your design ability and interests. Limit file size to 10MB.

Benefits and Environment:

• A culture that encourages healthy and sustainable work/life balance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Hybrid Location – Remote, Jobsite, and Office available

Giraffe Design Build is an equal employment opportunity employer (EEOC). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.