Position Summary
APIC Solutions is seeking an experienced Special Systems Designer/Estimator to join our estimating and technical design team. In this role, you will prepare detailed cost estimates and technical designs for low voltage projects while collaborating closely with sales, project management, and field operations teams. This is an ideal opportunity for a technical professional with strong estimating expertise and a passion for developing cost-effective solutions for complex projects.
Key Responsibilities
Project Estimation & Proposal Development
- Prepare detailed cost estimates, proposals, and budgets for low voltage projects
- Perform quantity takeoffs from blueprints and technical documentation
- Develop accurate project budgets based on material costs, labor requirements, and overhead
- Analyze historical data to anticipate potential risks, especially in complex industrial projects
- Present proposals and estimates to clients and internal stakeholders
Technical Design
- Design low voltage systems including CCTV, access control, fire alarms, and structured cabling
- Ensure designs comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and industry standards
- Develop innovative solutions that meet client requirements and project specifications
- Perform value engineering to identify cost-effective alternatives without compromising quality
- Review and analyze project plans and technical specifications
Project Planning & Assessment
- Conduct site surveys to assess project requirements and existing conditions
- Evaluate technical feasibility of proposed solutions
- Coordinate project timelines and resource allocation with project management teams
- Develop comprehensive project plans for design and installation phases
Vendor & Subcontractor Management
- Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers and subcontractors
- Evaluate vendor bids and obtain competitive pricing
- Negotiate terms and conditions with vendors to maximize value
- Coordinate with field operations to ensure material availability and project readiness
Team Collaboration & Communication
- Work closely with sales teams to support business development efforts
- Collaborate with project management to ensure accurate estimation and successful execution
- Communicate technical information clearly to clients, vendors, and internal teams
- Share estimating expertise with project managers and field personnel
- Participate in project reviews and continuous improvement initiatives
Internal Operations
- Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and business ethics codes
- Maintain professional internal and external relationships that align with company core values
- Build trust, communicate effectively, and foster innovation within teams
- Focus on customer needs and solve problems creatively
About APIC Solutions
At APIC Solutions, we are a customer-focused organization that believes in a team approach to develop multi-level relationships with our prospects and customers. We value creativity, initiative, and a strong commitment to meeting our clients' needs. Our team members demonstrate high integrity, solve problems creatively, and collaborate to deliver exceptional results.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of experience in low voltage contracting, estimating, or bid coordination
- Strong technical knowledge of low voltage systems, including electrical engineering principles
- Thorough understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and industry standards
- Proficiency with low voltage estimating software and spreadsheets
- Advanced experience with Microsoft Excel and project management tools
- Proven ability to perform detailed quantity takeoffs and cost analysis
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with clients, vendors, and team members
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across departments
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Bluebeam or similar takeoff software
- Knowledge of CCTV, access control, fire alarm, and structured cabling systems
- Project management certification or experience
- Experience managing complex industrial or commercial projects
- Familiarity with estimating databases and cost management tools
- Background in electrical engineering or related field
Required Software/Systems
- Microsoft Excel (advanced proficiency)
- Low voltage estimating software
- Project management tools
- Bluebeam (preferred)
Key Competencies
- Technical Expertise
- Analytical Thinking
- Estimating & Cost Analysis
- Project Planning
- Communication Skills
- Relationship Building
- Problem-Solving
- Attention to Detail
- Business Acumen
- Integrity & Ethics
