FLSA Status: Exempt Department: Office Reports to: Director of Purchasing & Estimating
Position Summary
The Low Voltage Systems Estimator is responsible for estimating and scoping various low voltage systems, including Telecommunications, Low Voltage Wiring Systems, AV, CCTV, Burglar, and Surveillance Systems. This role ensures accurate bid preparation and follows up on project proposals through direct client interactions.
General Purpose
The estimator will adhere to the estimating process, policies, and procedures outlined in the Estimator’s Handbook to develop accurate and thorough project estimates ranging from $250,000 to $3 million.
Essential Job Functions
Review turnkey quotes for low voltage systems to ensure scope accuracy and competitive pricing.
Communicate with vendors to clarify any discrepancies in project scope or pricing.
Read and interpret plans and specifications to create detailed takeoffs.
Conduct post-bid follow-ups, negotiate scope and pricing with clients, and provide value engineering recommendations.
Stay up to date with innovations and advancements in low voltage products and industry best practices.
Enter precise takeoffs into estimating software.
Use Bluebeam or on-screen takeoff software for all estimates.
Develop and maintain client relationships to secure future business.
Complete project budgets and attend pre-bid walkthroughs when required.
Essential Skills and Experience
Minimum two years of experience in low voltage systems estimating.
Background in low voltage construction, including equipment specifications and competitive bidding.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to manage large volumes of work efficiently while maintaining accuracy.
Analytical and problem-solving skills for complex project estimates.
Proficiency in computer applications, including estimating and takeoff software.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Position Responsibilities
Lead the estimation process for all low voltage systems on assigned projects.
Maintain an up-to-date understanding of material pricing.
Analyze labor requirements based on historical data to ensure accurate projections.
Complete and submit all bid forms, pre-bid RFIs, and confirmatory correspondence.
Establish and maintain a contact list of general contractors (GCs), decision-makers, and key stakeholders.
Work with the purchasing team to obtain complete and accurate system quotes.
Attend job start-up meetings for awarded projects and collaborate with project managers to finalize budgets.
Maintain an active client communication process, staying informed on upcoming work opportunities.
Continuously update the estimating database to reflect current industry conditions.
Conduct post-bid analysis with GCs to understand bid outcomes and improve future estimates.
Perform additional duties as assigned.
Work Environment
This role is primarily office-based, with occasional visits to regional offices, job sites, vendor locations, and manufacturer facilities as required.
General Expectations
The employee is expected to comply with all company policies and procedures.
