Estimating Manager - Fire Sprinkler

Estimating Manager – Fire SprinklerValparaiso, INPosition OverviewThe Estimating Manager is responsible for leading and developing a team of Sales Engineers (Estimators) who pursue new project opportunities and build relationships with general contractors and owner-direct customers for fire sprinkler projects. This role oversees the bid pipeline, ensures estimate and proposal accuracy, drives capture rates and margin performance, and ensures a smooth handoff of sold projects to operations. The Estimating Manager plays a critical role in shaping bidding strategy, mentoring estimating staff, and supporting the overall growth of the fire protection contract sales function.Team Leadership & DevelopmentLead, mentor, and develop a team of 2-4 Sales Engineers, providing coaching on estimating practices, customer engagement, and proposal qualitySet individual and team performance goals tied to bid volume, capture rates, margin targets, and customer relationship growthConduct regular one-on-ones, performance reviews, and skills development planningFoster a collaborative team environment that works effectively across departmentsBid Strategy & Pipeline ManagementEstablish bidding priorities across the team based on capture rates, margin opportunities, customer relationships, and operational capacityReview the bid pipeline regularly to ensure resources are focused on the highest-value opportunitiesMonitor win/loss data and adjust strategy to improve hit rates and profitabilityApprove bid/no-bid decisions and provide guidance on pricing strategy for complex or high-value projectsEstimate & Proposal OversightReview estimates prepared by Sales Engineers for accuracy, code compliance, and economic competitivenessEnsure quotes properly account for project specifications, special equipment and materials, subcontractor needs, and rental pricingLead bid reviews with the department head and ensure team members are prepared with organized, complete documentationVerify proposals match bid document requirements and are clear, concise, complete, and free of grammatical errors or contradictionsEnsure job award paperwork is completed accurately and on time, and that turnover meetings with operations are well-preparedConfirm that scope of work, conditions, expectations, opportunities, and payment terms are clearly defined at handoffSupport operations with pricing questions, change order strategy, and conflict resolution on sold projectsCustomer RelationshipsMaintain and grow direct relationships with key general contractors and project ownersSupport Sales Engineers in customer-facing meetings, negotiations, and conflict resolutionIdentify new market opportunities and target accounts to expand the customer baseRequired Qualifications5-7 years of progressive experience in estimating, sales engineering, or contract sales within the fire protection industryDemonstrated experience preparing and reviewing fire protection estimates and proposalsPrior leadership experience or evidence of readiness to lead a team (formal or informal)Working knowledge of fire protection codes, materials, equipment, and subcontractor marketsStrong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce clear, error-free proposalsProven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet bid deadlines, and solve problems under pressureAbility to work effectively with a wide range of personalities, both internally and with customersBachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, business, or related fieldNICET certification or equivalent fire protection industry credentials