Sr Estimator - NorCal

NIC Partners•Union City, CA

6d•$120,000 - $135,000

About The Position

NIC Partners is seeking an experienced Senior Presales Estimator to join its Special Systems team. The role designs and estimates low-voltage solutions, including electronic access control, IP video surveillance, and structured cabling. The estimator collaborates with Sales, Engineering, and Operations to develop competitive proposals, prepare accurate estimates, and support projects from concept through handoff. The position calls for strong technical knowledge, attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and the capacity to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in low-voltage systems, security infrastructure, design, or estimating.
Demonstrated experience estimating electronic access control systems.
Strong understanding of access control hardware, system architecture, and integration requirements.
Experience estimating IP camera/video surveillance and structured cabling systems.
Ability to interpret construction plans, technical drawings, and project specifications.
Experience developing accurate bills of materials, labor estimates, and detailed scopes of work.
Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple estimates and meet demanding deadlines.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and estimating software.

Nice To Haves

Experience estimating Verkada access control and camera systems, including cloud-based management, licensing, and integrations.
Familiarity with access control platforms such as LenelS2, Genetec, Software House, and Avigilon Alta/Openpath.
Verkada Certified Engineer (VCE) or comparable manufacturer certifications.
Experience with Accubid and Bluebeam.
Experience estimating prevailing wage and public works projects, including K–12 schools, higher education, government, and healthcare facilities.
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

Prepare detailed estimates, scopes of work, bills of materials, and labor and material cost proposals for low-voltage projects.
Design and estimate electronic access control systems, IP video surveillance, and structured cabling infrastructure.
Interpret construction drawings, blueprints, specifications, RFPs, and other project documentation.
Develop design-build estimates and solutions when project information is limited.
Conduct site surveys and pre-bid walkthroughs to evaluate project requirements, existing infrastructure, and potential challenges.
Select appropriate access control components, including controllers, card readers, electrified door hardware, power supplies, and related equipment.
Coordinate with manufacturers, vendors, and subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing and confirm equipment availability.
Identify scope gaps, project risks, and value-engineering opportunities.
Work with Account Managers and Project Managers to ensure accurate estimates and successful project handoffs.
Provide technical guidance and support to other estimators.
Stay current on emerging technologies, product developments, and industry best practices.