Fire Alarm Project Manager / Estimator
Location: Jacksonville, FL
Required Certification: NICET Level III or IV in Fire Alarm Systems
Experience: Minimum 7 years of successful fire alarm estimating, sales, and project management experience
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Fire Alarm Project Manager / Estimator to develop new business, prepare competitive estimates, and manage fire alarm projects from initial opportunity through final acceptance. This role focuses on new construction in heavy commercial and industrial environments and requires strong technical knowledge, sound business judgment, and a proven ability to deliver profitable projects.
The ideal candidate can build lasting relationships with general contractors, owners, and electrical contractors while coordinating complex installations, controlling costs, and maintaining project schedules.
Key Responsibilities
Estimating & Sales
- Identify, pursue, and secure fire alarm opportunities within heavy commercial and industrial new construction.
- Review plans, specifications, bid documents, and contract requirements to establish complete and accurate scopes of work.
- Perform detailed takeoffs and develop estimates covering equipment, materials, labor, programming, testing, subcontractors, and other project costs.
- Obtain and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations for pricing, completeness, and compliance with project requirements.
- Prepare proposals, scope clarifications, exclusions, and value engineering recommendations.
- Negotiate pricing and contract terms within company guidelines.
- Maintain an active pipeline of opportunities and cultivate relationships that generate repeat business.
Project Management
- Manage awarded projects from turnover and preconstruction through installation, testing, final inspection, and closeout.
- Establish and maintain project budgets, schedules, procurement plans, and cost forecasts.
- Coordinate technicians, subcontractors, vendors, and internal resources to meet project milestones.
- Work closely with general contractors, electrical contractors, engineers, owners, and authorities having jurisdiction.
- Coordinate shop drawings, product submittals, RFIs, equipment releases, and design changes.
- Monitor labor productivity, material costs, billing, and overall project profitability.
- Identify scope changes and prepare, price, negotiate, and track change orders.
- Coordinate system programming, testing, commissioning, acceptance inspections, and owner training.
- Ensure timely completion of as-built documentation, operating manuals, warranties, and other closeout requirements.
- Promote safe work practices and resolve field issues promptly.
Required Qualifications
- Current NICET Level III or Level IV certification in Fire Alarm Systems.
- At least 7 years of demonstrated success in fire alarm estimating, sales, and project management.
- Substantial experience with heavy commercial and industrial new construction projects.
- Strong working knowledge of fire alarm systems, initiating and notification devices, control equipment, and system integration.
- Working knowledge of applicable NFPA standards, including NFPA 72, and relevant building, fire, and electrical code requirements.
- Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, riser diagrams, and technical documentation.
- Proven ability to develop accurate estimates, win business, and manage projects to established financial and schedule goals.
- Experience managing contracts, change orders, procurement, billing, and project closeout.
- Strong communication, negotiation, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency with estimating software, Microsoft Excel, and project management tools.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites throughout the Jacksonville area.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with large, complex facilities such as manufacturing plants, warehouses, distribution centers, healthcare facilities, or major commercial developments.
- Experience with networked fire alarm systems, voice evacuation, and integration with other building systems.
- Established relationships with general contractors, electrical contractors, and commercial or industrial clients in Northeast Florida.
- Familiarity with Bluebeam, construction takeoff software, and major fire alarm manufacturers.
What Success Looks Like
Success in this role means securing profitable work through accurate estimates and strong client relationships, then delivering projects that meet scope, schedule, budget, quality, and acceptance requirements.
