Quotations Specialist - Switchgear

Border States•Nashville, TN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Quotations Specialist provides specialized knowledge and skills in quoting equipment and packages to customers. The position performs bid takeoffs and pricing functions and proactively works with engineers and customers to address changing business needs and resolve issues. The specialist owns the preparation of complete and accurate quotations for assigned projects, from takeoff through customer submission, and develops quotations and requests bid or performance bonds within company profit objectives and guidelines. The role involves coordinating vendor pricing, lead times, alternates, and compliance with project specifications; evaluating bid scope, technical requirements, and commercial risk; and identifying value-engineering and alternate-product options. The specialist provides responsive customer service and collaborates with Border States staff to resolve billing issues related to quotations, pricing, shipping, delivery, or other customer service and credit matters. The position is based in Nashville, Tennessee.

Requirements

At least 4 years of prior customer service, quotation, or sales experience; strong knowledge of electrical products and systems is preferred.
Technical ability to understand electrical systems and product applications; prior electrical distribution experience is preferred.
Ability to read blueprints and specifications.
Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication, reading, and customer service skills, and ability to plan and organize effectively.
Customer service skills that demonstrate competence, accuracy, responsiveness, and engagement.

Nice To Haves

A business or trade degree, or equivalent work experience.
Comprehensive knowledge of product lines and applications, alternate product substitutes, and supplier pricing policies.
Ability to read, write, and speak English.
Working knowledge of Windows PCs, Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint), the internet, email, and SAP software.
Experience with switchgear manufacturer quotation software, such as Schneider Electric's SE Advantage System or Parspec Quotations Software.

Responsibilities

Perform bid takeoffs and pricing functions for electrical equipment and products, including switchgear and related systems.
Apply product and pricing knowledge within established guidelines, margin targets, and approval authority to determine appropriate specifications, applications, and pricing for projects.
Independently complete and support the quotation process for assigned projects.
Provide timely follow-up on specialized or technical customer inquiries and requests.
Develop quotations and request bids within company profit objectives and guidelines, coordinating vendor pricing, lead times, alternates, and specification compliance.
Provide consistent, responsive, and quality customer service.
Coordinate, analyze, and act on information and feedback about customer needs, pricing, products, competition, and procedures.
Coordinate with Border States staff to resolve customer billing issues related to quotation errors, pricing, shipping, delivery, or other customer service or credit areas.
Maintain an active log of project bid wins and losses, including vendors and contractors quoted.
Identify and recommend value engineering, alternate products, and expedited shipping options to improve competitiveness and meet project requirements.
Evaluate bid scope, technical requirements, and commercial risk, and escalate deviations from standards or unusual conditions as appropriate.
Provide input and market intelligence as required.
May place or hold orders on secured projects, prepare submittal drawings, and release held orders after submittal approval.
May obtain orders and provide sales support to the outside sales force.
May provide input or guidance on purchasing, product evaluations and code descriptions, inventory management, pricing development, and related services.
Attend sales meetings and training programs as required, and participate in sales meetings and trade shows as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.