Low Voltage Engineer

Position Summary:

ESS is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Low Voltage Systems Engineer I to join our growing team.

This entry-level position is designed for a recent college graduate interested in developing a long-term career in low voltage systems engineering, design, and technology integration.

Our approach is unique: Before designing our systems, we believe an engineer should understand how they are installed, programmed, tested, and maintained in the field.

The selected candidate will begin with a structured six-month field training program, working alongside experienced technicians, project managers, and engineers to gain hands-on experience with the systems we design and install.

Following the initial training period, the Engineer I will transition into an engineering-focused position responsible for developing system designs, engineering drawings, shop drawings, equipment layouts, as-built documentation, and other technical deliverables for low voltage construction projects.

The ideal candidate is eager to learn, comfortable working in both construction environments and an office setting, and excited about combining engineering principles with real-world technology applications.

Key Responsibilities

Phase 1: Field Training & Technical Development (First 6 Months)

During the first six months, the Engineer I will work primarily in the field alongside experienced technicians to develop a strong understanding of low voltage systems and construction practices.

Field Training Responsibilities:

• Participate in the installation, termination, programming, testing, and commissioning of low voltage systems.
• Gain hands-on exposure to the systems and technologies supported by ESS, including:
  
  • Fire alarm and life safety systems
  • Access control and electronic security systems
  • Video surveillance (CCTV/IP camera) systems
  • Structured cabling and fiber optic networks
  • Nurse call and healthcare communication systems
  • Public address, intercom, and mass notification systems
  • Other integrated low voltage technologies
• Learn how to interpret construction drawings, engineering specifications, riser diagrams, and installation details.
• Understand the relationships between system design, material selection, installation methods, and field performance.
• Become familiar with applicable industry codes and standards, including NFPA, NEC, BICSI, and manufacturer requirements.
• Observe project coordination between field technicians, project managers, general contractors, and other trades.
• Learn proper documentation procedures, including field markups, redline drawings, testing records, and project closeout requirements.
• Develop an understanding of system troubleshooting, programming, commissioning, and customer expectations.
• Follow all company safety policies and actively participate in the ESS safety culture.

Field Training Objective:

At the conclusion of the six-month training period, the Engineer I should possess a practical understanding of how our primary low voltage systems function, how they are installed, and how engineering decisions affect project execution, cost, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Phase 2: Engineering & Design Responsibilities (After 6 Months)

Following successful completion of field training, the Engineer I will transition into a primarily engineering and design role, with continued field involvement as needed.

The Engineer I will be responsible for preparing and coordinating engineering deliverables for assigned projects, with technical review and guidance from senior engineering personnel.

Engineering & Design Responsibilities:

System Design & Engineering

• Develop complete low voltage system designs based on project specifications, customer requirements, applicable codes, and industry standards.
• Prepare device layouts, system riser diagrams, wiring diagrams, equipment schedules, and installation details.
• Perform system calculations, including voltage drop, battery capacity, power supply loading, speaker circuit loading, and other applicable engineering calculations.
• Select appropriate equipment, devices, and system components based on project requirements.
• Coordinate system interfaces and integration requirements between multiple low voltage technologies.
• Review architectural, electrical, mechanical, and other construction documents to identify design requirements and potential conflicts.

Shop Drawings & Submittals

• Prepare accurate, professional shop drawings for low voltage construction projects.
• Develop equipment submittal packages, product data documentation, and supporting technical calculations.
• Coordinate drawings and documentation with project managers, field technicians, customers, and design professionals.
• Respond to engineer review comments and revise drawings as required.
• Maintain compliance with project specifications, applicable codes, and manufacturer design requirements.

As-Built Drawings & Project Closeout

• Prepare final as-built drawings incorporating field changes and installation redlines.
• Maintain accurate engineering records throughout the project lifecycle.
• Assist with operation and maintenance manuals, system documentation, and project closeout packages.
• Coordinate with field personnel to ensure final documentation accurately reflects installed conditions.

Technical Support & Project Coordination

• Provide engineering and technical support to project managers, estimators, and field technicians.
• Assist with resolving installation conflicts, design discrepancies, and technical challenges.
• Participate in project kickoff meetings, design reviews, and coordination meetings.
• Conduct site visits to verify field conditions and support installation teams.
• Assist estimating personnel with equipment takeoffs, system layouts, and technical evaluations.
• Coordinate with manufacturers and distributors to obtain technical information and ensure proper equipment selection.
• Identify opportunities to improve engineering efficiency, standardization, and design quality.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Electronics Engineering Technology, Computer Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• Recent college graduate or candidate with 0-2 years of relevant experience.
• Strong interest in low voltage technology, electronic systems, and construction.
• Willingness to spend the first six months working primarily in field environments, learning directly from experienced technicians.
• Basic understanding of electrical and electronic principles.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications, or a demonstrated willingness to develop this skill.
• Strong computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet project deadlines.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with AutoCAD, Revit, or similar engineering design software.
• Exposure to construction drawings, electrical systems, or low voltage technologies.
• Basic knowledge of networking, IP addressing, and communications systems.
• Internship, cooperative education, or previous hands-on technical experience.
• Familiarity with NFPA 70, NFPA 72, or BICSI standards.
• Interest in pursuing industry certifications and manufacturer-specific training.

Previous low voltage industry experience is not required. We are looking for someone with the right attitude, technical aptitude, and willingness to learn.

Professional Development & Career Growth

ESS is committed to developing engineers who understand both the technical design and practical installation of integrated systems.

The Engineer I will receive structured mentorship and opportunities to develop expertise in multiple low voltage technologies.

Potential professional development opportunities include:

• Manufacturer-specific certifications, including Notifier and other supported system platforms.
• NICET certification in Fire Alarm Systems.
• BICSI certifications and professional development.
• Advanced AutoCAD and Revit training.
• Low voltage system design and engineering courses.
• Project management and leadership development.
• Progression into Engineer II, Senior Systems Engineer, Project Engineer, or Engineering Management roles.

Performance Expectations

First 6 Months - Field Development

• Demonstrate a strong willingness to learn and actively participate in field training.
• Develop working knowledge of ESS's primary low voltage systems.
• Understand installation practices, system functionality, and project documentation.
• Build positive working relationships with field technicians and project management personnel.
• Demonstrate safe work practices, reliability, and professionalism.

Months 7-12 - Engineering Transition

• Assume responsibility for assigned engineering designs, shop drawings, submittals, and as-built documentation.
• Produce accurate and timely engineering deliverables with appropriate senior-level review.
• Apply field experience to develop practical, constructible designs.
• Demonstrate increasing independence in design development and technical problem-solving.
• Provide responsive technical support to field personnel and project managers.
• Continue developing technical knowledge and applicable industry certifications.

Long-Term Expectations

• Become a dependable engineering resource for the ESS division.
• Independently manage engineering documentation for assigned projects within established technical and approval requirements.
• Deliver high-quality, code-compliant, cost-effective, and field-friendly system designs.
• Help improve engineering standards, productivity, and consistency across the organization.
• Maintain strong working relationships with operations, estimating, and field teams.

Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who is not interested in sitting behind a desk from day one.

The ideal candidate is curious about technology, enjoys solving problems, and wants to understand how complex electronic systems operate in the real world.

This individual should be equally comfortable learning from an experienced field technician, reviewing a construction drawing, working with a manufacturer, or developing a technical design.

Our goal is to develop an engineer who does not simply know how to draw a system, but understands how to build it, make it work, and support the people responsible for installing it.

About MetroPower ESS

MetroPower's Electrical Systems & Solutions (ESS) division specializes in the design, installation, integration, and support of advanced low voltage systems for commercial, industrial, institutional, and healthcare customers.

Our team combines technical expertise, practical construction experience, and long-standing manufacturer relationships to deliver reliable, high-quality integrated technology solutions.

We believe that developing technically strong employees, investing in training, and maintaining close collaboration between engineering and field operations are essential to our long-term success.

MetroPower is an Equal Opportunity Employer.