Low Voltage Estimator

Instrata; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career growth

Collaboration with experienced teams

Competitive salary

Performance incentives

Full benefits package

Job summary

Instrata is seeking a detail-oriented Low Voltage Estimator in Raleigh, North Carolina. The successful candidate will interpret complex plans, build accurate bids, and collaborate across functions to shape successful project outcomes in AV, security, and structured cabling.

This role involves reviewing Division 27 and 28 drawings, performing take-offs, and crafting competitive bid packages. Applicants should have 5-10 years of experience and a strong understanding of low voltage systems.

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of low voltage estimating or field design experience.
• Strong knowledge of structured cabling, AV, security, and telecom.
• Experience in interpreting construction plans and bid sets.
• Confident in using estimating software and project tools.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings and specifications to understand project requirements.
• Perform take-offs using tools to create detailed estimates.
• Build competitive estimates accounting for jobsite conditions.
• Coordinate with teams and vendors to ensure scope clarity.

Skills

Low voltage estimating

Project management

Communication skills

Technical knowledge

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma

Degree in construction, engineering, or related field

Tools

Bluebeam Revu

Estimating platforms (Accubid, Esticom, NetSuite)

Excel

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

About The Role

Do you thrive on precision, problem-solving, and helping teams win new work through smart, strategic estimating? We’re looking for a detail-oriented, systems-savvy Low Voltage Estimator who can interpret complex plans, build accurate bids, and collaborate across functions to shape successful project outcomes. In this role, you’ll be the engine behind our project pursuits—combining technical knowledge, vendor coordination, and estimating tools to develop winning proposals across AV, security, structured cabling, and low voltage scopes. From take-offs to client conversations, you’ll help lay the foundation for quality execution and client satisfaction.

What You’ll Do – Estimate with Accuracy. Bid with Insight.

• Interpret with Confidence: Review Division 27 and 28 drawings, bid manuals, and specs to develop a deep understanding of project requirements.
• Perform Take-Offs: Use tools like Bluebeam Revu to generate detailed material and labor estimates with precision and efficiency.
• Own the Numbers: Build competitive estimates using labor models, BOMs, and internal KPIs—accounting for real-world jobsite conditions.
• Communicate Clearly: Coordinate with internal teams, subcontractors, and vendors to ensure scope clarity and price accuracy.
• Drive Proposal Development: Craft professional, complete, and timely bid packages—reflecting assumptions, exclusions, and value engineering options.
• Lead Scope Alignment: Respond to RFIs, ASIs, and addenda while ensuring internal alignment between estimating, project management, and engineering.
• Support Client Engagement: Follow up on open proposals and maintain strong relationships with GCs, architects, electrical contractors, and owner reps.
• Prepare for Success: Participate in pre-construction and project kickoff meetings to ensure smooth handoff and accurate expectations.
• Contribute to Continuous Improvement: Track pricing trends, maintain vendor relationships, and offer feedback on project win/loss insights.
• Navigate Tools with Ease: Work fluently within estimating platforms (Accubid, Esticom, NetSuite), Excel models, and CAD tools for accurate takeoffs and BOM validation.

Systems You’ll Support

• Structured Cabling: Cat6, Cat6A, OM3/OM4 fiber, single-mode, IDF/MDF buildouts
• Audio Visual: Digital signage, paging, conference rooms, DSP systems
• Security Systems: IP CCTV, access control, electrified hardware
• Sound Masking: Integrated and standalone deployments
• Public Safety DAS/BDA: Repeater and emergency responder systems

What You Bring

• 5–10 years of low voltage estimating, field design, or equivalent experience
• Strong knowledge of structured cabling, AV, security, and telecom systems
• Experience interpreting construction plans, bid sets, and subcontractor requirements
• Confidence using estimating software, Bluebeam Revu, Excel, and project tools
• Familiarity with AutoCAD and Revit for device placement and pathway coordination
• A proactive mindset with excellent communication and time management skills
• RCDD certification or equivalent design experience preferred (BICSI a plus)
• High school diploma required; degree in construction, engineering, or related field preferred

What’s in It for You

• Career Growth: Be part of a forward-thinking team where your expertise drives impact.
• Collaboration: Work alongside experienced PMs, engineers, and field teams to shape project success.
• Challenge & Variety: Every estimate is a new opportunity to problem-solve and win.
• Flexibility: Primarily office-based with occasional site visits or vendor meetings.
• Compensation & Benefits: Competitive salary, performance incentives, and full benefits package.

Work Environment

Standard office conditions with occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs) and field walk-throughs. Some after-hours work may be required during bid crunch periods or client deadlines.