Estimator - Fire Alarm & Security Systems

Estimator - Fire Alarm & Security Systems

Northbrook, IL

• Paid vacation and sick time
• Company Paid Holidays
• Additional paid time off for life events (e.g., jury duty, bereavement)
• Competitive compensation
• 401(k) retirement plan with competitive company match
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Short-term/Long-term disability insurance
• Life Insurance
• Career Advancement Opportunities and more!

LaMarco Systems Inc. is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our Northbrook, IL office. The Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive quotes for commercial fire alarm and electronic security system projects. The Estimator will analyze project documents, conduct site surveys, apply code requirements, and build detailed cost estimates. Your work directly drives bid success and project profitability.

This is an in-office role at our Northbrook, IL office.

• Review architectural drawings, specifications, and RFPs to determine full project scope
• Perform material and labor take-offs for fire alarm, access control, video surveillance, and intrusion systems
• Develop detailed cost estimates including equipment, installation labor, subcontractors, and project management overhead
• Build competitive bid packages and written proposals with clear system descriptions and exclusions
• Apply NFPA 72, NFPA 101, IBC, and local AHJ requirements to all estimates
• Maintain and update equipment pricing databases using current vendor pricing
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and field supervisors to validate labor hours and installation sequences
• Attend pre-bid meetings and conduct site walks to assess existing conditions
• Respond to RFIs and clarification requests from GCs and owners during the bid process
• Present estimates to sales leadership and participate in bid review meetings
• Support value engineering discussions to maintain competitive pricing without sacrificing scope
• Track all active bids, deadlines, and outcomes in the CRM or estimating software
• Maintain organized bid files and document all assumptions and exclusions
• Analyze won/lost bid data to improve future pricing strategy
• Stay current on product lines, manufacturer updates, and market pricing trends

• 3+ years of estimating experience in commercial fire alarm, security, or low-voltage systems
• NICET Level II or higher certification in Fire Alarm Systems
• Experience with access control platforms (Lenel, Software House, CCURE) or video (Genetec, Milestone, Avigilon)
• Prior field installation or commissioning experience in fire or security systems
• Working knowledge of NFPA 72, NFPA 101, and local fire codes
• Associate or Bachelor's degree in electrical technology, engineering, or related field preferred
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, electrical, and mechanical drawings
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., Accubid, Con Est, or equivalent)
• Strong math and analytical skills with high attention to detail
• Effective written and verbal communication for proposal writing and client interaction
• Familiarity with construction bidding platforms (Building Connected, iSqFt, Plan Hub)

$70,000 - $105,000 USD

This role may require extended periods of sitting or standing, movement around the office or job site, and operation of standard equipment. Physical activities can include reaching, bending, kneeling, climbing, and lifting up to 75 lbs. Field positions may involve heavy lifting, working in varying climates (including outdoor conditions), construction or low-voltage environments, and exposure to dust, noise, or confined spaces.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required. Some roles may require travel.

Fortis Fire & Safety Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their work.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of job-related pre-employment screenings, which may include a background check and/or drug testing, in accordance with applicable laws.

Fortis Fire & Safety Inc. participates in E‑Verify. We use E‑Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires. For more information, visit https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..gov