Technical Estimator

Description:

Job Summary
The Technical Estimator is responsible for analyzing project requirements and producing detailed, accurate cost estimates for physical security and access control projects. This includes assessing labor, materials, and equipment related to automated gates, vehicle barriers, bollards, turnstiles, cameras, and access control systems. The Technical Estimator works closely with project managers, engineers, field technicians, and clients to ensure complete, compliant, and competitive proposals that contribute to the successful execution of projects across Sloan Security Group’s nationwide portfolio.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Estimating and Proposal Development

• Review project drawings, specifications, and RFP/RFQ documentation to understand full project scope.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates, takeoffs, and bills of materials (BOMs) for automated gates, barriers, turnstiles, bollards, and integrated access control systems.
• Analyze project requirements for cameras, access control systems, and gate automation components to determine all labor, material, and equipment costs.
• Conduct site visits when required to assess conditions, gather accurate field data, and ensure reliable
• estimation.
• Develop complete bid packages and written scopes of work, including clarifications, alternates, and assumptions.
• Coordinate with vendors and subcontractors to obtain, review, and integrate quotations, verifying accuracy, scope alignment, and compliance with technical requirements.
• Utilize company estimating tools, Excel workbooks, and CRM/ERP platforms (Pipedrive, Acumatica) to maintain consistent estimating standards and data integrity.
• Draft professional proposals and technical narratives aligned with company branding and client expectations.

Project and Client Coordination

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers, Engineers, and Field Technicians to validate constructability, installation methods, and material selections.
• Interface directly with clients, contracting officers, and general contractors to resolve scope questions and ensure compliance with solicitation documents.
• Support inter-company estimating coordination within the Ironsite network (e.g., PGAC, Ironsite, Sloan) to maintain accurate transfer pricing and margin consistency.
• Proactively follow up on bid opportunities and assist in expanding the company’s project portfolio.

Compliance and Documentation

• Ensure estimates comply with applicable codes, standards, and regulations, including UL325, ASTM F2200, SBA small-business size standards, and FAR/DFARS clauses.
• Apply proper Davis-Bacon and prevailing wage determinations, travel/per-diem requirements, and contract classifications.
• Maintain organized documentation of all estimating files, bid clarifications, correspondence, and cost assumptions for post-award handoff.

Technical Expertise

• Maintain current knowledge of manufacturer specifications and best practices for major OEMs such as Delta Scientific, HySecurity, LiftMaster, Magnetic, Alvarado, and Hayward.
• Review drawings, loop layouts, wiring schematics, and system integration requirements for technical accuracy.
• Support development of technical renderings, CAD overlays, and conceptual layouts for proposals and presentations.
• Understand basic networking principles relevant to IP-based cameras and access control systems.

Process Improvement and Training

• Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating templates, SOPs, and standard inclusions/exclusions.
• Participate in Lean process initiatives to increase estimating efficiency and accuracy.
• Assist with onboarding and training of new estimators through structured two-week programs and shadowing.

Cost Tracking and Analysis

• Provide cost breakdowns and variance analyses as required to support project management and financial reporting.
• Monitor awarded project budgets for alignment with original estimates and identify cost-saving opportunities.

Requirements:

Qualifications
Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Engineering, or related technical field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience as an estimator or technical estimator within construction, security, or specialty contracting industries.
• Strong technical knowledge of automated gates, access control, and video surveillance systems.
• Proficiency with Excel-based estimating tools and CRM/ERP systems (Pipedrive, Acumatica).
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and written communication skills.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple concurrent deadlines.

Preferred:

• Experience with federal contracting, including FAR/DFARS compliance, CLIN structures, and PSC J039 classifications.
• Familiarity with UL325 and ASTM F2200 safety standards.
• Experience using Bluebeam, STACK, or equivalent digital estimating platforms.
• Working knowledge of system design and integration for access control and camera networks.
• Technical certifications (e.g., PSP, OSHA 30, or OEM factory training).

Travel Requirements
Travel to project sites as needed to conduct site assessments, attend pre-bid meetings, or support field verifications. Some overnight travel may be required.

Working Conditions
Must be physically capable of occasional lifting, carrying, or moving materials up to 100 lbs. Ability to work in variable outdoor conditions, including extreme temperatures, as typical of construction and security installation environments. Typical work schedule is Monday–Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM, with hybrid office/remote flexibility.

Performance Metrics

• Accuracy and completeness of cost estimates.
• Timeliness of bid delivery.
• Compliance with company standards, codes, and safety requirements.
• Collaboration and communication with project and estimating teams.

EEO Policy
Sloan Security Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable laws.