Low Voltage Estimator

Kidwell is seeking an experienced and driven candidate to fill the position of Low Voltage Estimator in our Des Moines, IA location. This position is responsible for the accurate and timely delivery of project proposals for Kidwell's partnering electrical contractors, general contractors and low voltage customers. The ideal candidate will work with Kidwell's field staff and pre- sales engineering staff, as well as Kidwell's vendors and partners, in order to build professional and accurate estimates for Kidwell's Integrated Systems projects.

Kidwell Core Values

At Kidwell, our core values make us who we are and show in everything we do; Led by passion, we believe our everyday jobs contribute to something bigger than ourselves. We pride ourselves in our creativity, but also in the effective solutions we create that bring value to our customers. Our employees act like owners, who take initiatives to lead and are treated like family. We are relentless and see work ethic and accountability as the baseline in the pursuit of excellence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Efficiently and effectively performs all stages of an estimate including estimate organization, take-off, pricing, proposal generation, reviews, change orders, closeout.
• This position works with pre-sales and field engineering staff in order to build a proposal that includes an accurate estimate of labor and material. This position also works with Kidwell's existing vendors and partners for locating and tracking availability of relevant material for the successful installation of Kidwell 's low voltage projects.
• Creates, analyzes, and maintains correct and accurate quantities and thorough take-offs from plans/specifications.
• Provides improvement recommendations to cost estimating procedures to reduce future discrepancies between estimated and actual costs.
• Identifies cost trends to assist management in cost reduction and process improvement efforts.
• Oversee and lead estimating processes on specific bids
• Shows creativity and resourcefulness to gain best possible pricing from subcontractors/vendors.

Key Skills:

• Analytical- Ability to comprehend complex projects and/or customer jobs based on scopes of work, requested materials and timelines needed. Must have the ability to interpret written scopes/designs and request information if there are any uncertainties about the scope or design.
• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
• Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in both positive and negative situations; listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
• Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
• Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to meet goals and objectives; Supports everyone's eff orts to succeed.
• Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; must have the ability to balance multiple initiatives at the same time.

Do You Have What It Takes? -

• An Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field or 4+ years low voltage experience and/or training is required.
• Minimum of 2 years experience estimating low voltage projects, including but not limited to cabling, access control, video surveillance, intercom, nurse call, etc.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word. Must be able and willing to learn other Estimation specific software's and programs
• Technical skills and the passion to always learn more. The ability to understand all aspects of the estimation process and continue to grow as business needs change.