The Audiovisual (AV) Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive proposals in response to Requests for Proposal (RFPs), Requests for Quotation (RFQs), and other bid opportunities. This role serves as a key contributor to the pre-sales process by analyzing customer requirements, developing system solutions, preparing detailed cost estimates, and supporting proposal submissions.
The successful candidate will work closely with Sales, Project Management, Engineering, and Vendor Partners to develop compliant and cost-effective AV solutions.
Responsibilities:- Prepare accurate and competitive cost budgets for commercial AV, security, and structured cabling systems based on drawings, specifications, and relevant project documentation
- Collaborate with Engineering, Sales, and PMO teams to develop detailed estimates including labor, materials, logistics, and bill of materials (BOMs)
- Interpret proposals, blueprints, AV system designs, risers, and specifications to identify labor and material requirements
- Analyze scope documents and project plans to produce clear, concise cost estimates for integrated low voltage systems
- Engage manufacturers, distributors, and subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing and ensure complete solutions
- Identify opportunities for value engineering while maintaining design intent and system performance
- Maintain current knowledge of technology trends, products, and industry best practices through ongoing training and vendor engagement
- Coordinate bid and proposal development with internal stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate submissions
- Site visits as required
Required Qualifications:- Minimum 5 years of progressive estimating experience in structured cabling industry with a strong emphasis on audiovisual systems
- Proven experience estimating commercial AV projects, including conferencing, audio DSP, digital signage, control, and room integration systems
- Working knowledge of AV systems (Crestron, Extron, Q-SYS, Biamp, Shure, Sennheiser, Atlona, BrightSign, Samsung, LG)
- Strong computer skills including advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel in particular), Bluebeam, and estimating/project software such as D-Tools, or similar
- Excellent organization, time management, and attention to detail
- Ability to interpret architectural drawings, AV and security system schematics, and specifications
- Clear communication and collaboration skills across multidisciplinary teams
- Must be a self-starter and able to work under minimal supervision
Preferred Qualifications:- Experience working with some or all the following systems:
- Security - Genetec, Avigilon, LenelS2, Kantech, Bosch, DMP, AMAG
- Cabling - Belden, CommScope, Panduit, Corning
- CTS or CTS-D certification (or working toward CTS) preferred
- Familiarity with AV-over-IP and hybrid UC platforms such as Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms
- Experience in a technical sales or system design role considered an asset
- Post-secondary education in electronics, telecommunications, AV integration, or a related technical field
Salary Range $72,000 - $97,000 (DOE)
Vacancy Status: This posting is for a current and existing vacancy
Physical Demands:
In general, the following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.
- Must be able to effectively communicate in English, (ie see, hear, speak and write clearly) in order to communicate with colleagues and/or customers
- Manual dexterity required for occasional reaching, lifting of light office objects, and operating office equipment
- Sitting, standing, walking in office environments and construction sites
- The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and may be required to work at heights over 1.8m (6 feet)
Working Conditions:In general, the following conditions of the work environment are representative of those that an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
- The office is clean, orderly, properly lighted and ventilated. Noise levels are considered low to moderate
- Will be required to be on site with customers or contractors, with or without Paladin colleagues to manage the expectations and deliverables. Sites range from general office environments to new construction.
- Driving to customer sites is required
- Limited overnight travel may be required
