Estimator - Fire Alarm & Security Systems

Estimator - Fire Alarm & Security Systems

Northbrook, IL

At Fortis Fire & Safety, we provide industry-leading fire protection & security services across the United States. Our ever-growing footprint can be seen in California, Florida, North Carolina, and Chicago, and we are acquiring new brands all the time.

We are proud to work together as one team under the Fortis Fire & Safety family, which includes CJ Suppression, Diversified Systems, Inc., Integrated Fire & Security Solutions, LaMarco Systems, LifeSafety Management, Piper Fire Protection, and VFS Fire & Security Services. United by a shared mission, we deliver comprehensive fire protection and security solutions nationwide.

Joining Fortis means becoming part of a nationwide, next-generation fire protection company. We're dedicated to a People-First philosophy, where we invest in our team through training and development, as well as a competitive benefits package. In return, we expect the very best from each of our employees every day.

If you are ready to be exceptional in your chosen career, apply to work with us today!

Here at Fortis and throughout our family of brands, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• 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!

This is a general overview of benefits. Specific eligibility and coverage details will be provided during the hiring process.

Job Summary:

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.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• 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

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• 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, ConEst, 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 (BuildingConnected, iSqFt, PlanHub)

This pay range reflects the compensation rate Fortis Fire & Safety reasonably expects to pay for this position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as experience and skillset. This role is also eligible for benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401k match, pet insurance, short term/long term disability, etc...

Compensation Rate

$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 jobs. 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.