Low Voltage Estimator

VIP Systems Inc.; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

VIP Systems seeks an experienced Low Voltage Estimator to support Texas projects from our Houston team. You will review bid packages, create detailed takeoffs, and build complete cost models for commercial low-voltage systems, coordinating with Sales, Engineering, Operations, and Project Management.

The role requires 3–5+ years of estimating experience in low-voltage or related fields, strong reading of architectural and technology drawings, and proficiency with Accubid, ConEst, Bluebeam Revu,

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years in low-voltage estimating roles.
• Strong ability to read architectural, electrical, riser, security, and technology drawings.
• Proficient with Accubid, ConEst, Bluebeam Revu, and MS Excel.

Responsibilities

• Review bid packages, drawings, specifications (including Divisions 27 and 28), and addenda to establish scope and flag conflicts or gaps before bid submission.
• Perform detailed material and labor takeoffs covering devices, cabling, pathways, headend, network, testing, programming, and closeout.
• Develop base bids, alternates, allowances, unit pricing, and value-engineering options.

Skills

Estimating

Plan reading

Communication

Time management

Tools

Accubid

McCormick

ConEst

Bluebeam Revu

Excel

Job description

VIP Systems is a technology integration firm specializing in security, communications, and low-voltage infrastructure. We design and deliver integrated systems for commercial, multifamily, hospitality, sports and entertainment, government, educational, and energy clients. Our capabilities include video surveillance, access control, structured cabling and fiber, intercom, audiovisual, parking and gate control, and emergency responder radio coverage.

Position Overview

VIP Systems is seeking an experienced Low Voltage Estimator for its Houston team. The Estimator will primarily support Texas projects and provide remote estimating support to other VIP markets as needed. The role reviews plans, specifications, and customer requirements to produce accurate, competitive, and profitable estimates for commercial low-voltage systems, and works closely with Sales, Engineering, Operations, and Project Management.

Key Responsibilities

Document Review and Takeoffs

• Review bid packages, drawings, specifications (including Divisions 27 and 28), and addenda to establish scope, and flag conflicts or gaps before bid submission
• Perform detailed material and labor takeoffs covering devices, cabling, pathways, headend, network, testing, programming, and closeout
• Account for lifts, rentals, permits, freight, travel, mobilization, and subcontractor costs

Pricing and Estimate Development

• Solicit and review vendor and subcontractor quotes for scope, lead times, exclusions, and validity, and negotiate terms where appropriate
• Build complete cost models including labor, materials, overhead, contingency, and margin
• Develop base bids, alternates, allowances, unit pricing, and value-engineering options

Proposals and Handoff

• Prepare clear proposals and written scopes that define inclusions, exclusions, assumptions, and risks
• Confirm bid forms, bonds, and supporting documents are complete and submitted on time
• Hand awarded projects to Project Management and Engineering, support change-order pricing, and compare estimates against actuals to refine future bids

Required Qualifications

• Experience: 3 to 5+ years in low-voltage, telecommunications, electrical, or electronic security estimating, design, engineering, project management, or field operations
• Technical Knowledge: Working knowledge of structured cabling and fiber, video surveillance, access control, intercom, AV, or life-safety systems
• Plan Reading: Strong ability to read architectural, electrical, riser, security, and technology drawings
• Software: Experience with Accubid, McCormick, ConEst, Bluebeam Revu, or comparable platforms; advanced Microsoft Excel
• Communication: Clear written and verbal communication and the ability to manage multiple estimates under firm deadlines
• Travel: Valid driver's license and ability to attend Houston-area site walks and pre-bid meetings

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of commercial low-voltage estimating on projects from about $50,000 to several million dollars
• Familiarity with NEC, BICSI, and NFPA standards
• Familiarity with platforms such as Genetec, Axis, Hanwha Vision, HID, Salto, and Avigilon Alta
• Public-sector, prevailing-wage, bonded, healthcare, or educational project experience
• BICSI, NICET, ASIS, or manufacturer certifications