Pre Sales Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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What we offer

• Competitive salary and commission / bonus plan

• Paid vacation/holidays/sick time - 15 days of vacation first year

• Comprehensive benefits package including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care - Available day one

• Extensive product and on the job/cross training opportunities With outstanding resources

• Encouraging and collaborative team environment

• Dedication to safety through our Zero Harm policy

• Company vehicle

What you will do

The BSSE Pre‑Sales Field Engineer (Security & Fire) is responsible for performing detailed site surveys, analyzing technical and environmental conditions, and developing accurate assessments and budgetary estimates for security and fire system installations and other duties as assigned. This role requires strong technical acumen, field‑survey expertise, and the ability to translate real‑world site conditions into actionable engineering and cost recommendations. The BSSE Pre‑Sales Field Engineer (Security & Fire) works closely with Sales, Pre‑Sales Engineering, and Operations teams to ensure proposed solutions are feasible, compliant, and aligned with customer expectations. This role will cover Chicago/Northern Illinois and Wisconsin.

How you will do it

Site Survey Execution

Conduct comprehensive on‑site evaluations to assess entry points, perimeter conditions, building layouts, and potential vulnerabilities.

Identify and document all system components, device locations, and installation considerations relevant to the project scope.

Evaluate the site for risk conditions, code compliance requirements, and upgrade opportunities.

Performs on‑site surveys: Provides professional site assessments so sellers receive reliable information early in the sales cycle.

Technical Tool Proficiency

Use measuring tools such as laser distance meters and tape measures to capture accurate dimensions.

Create or update digital floor plans using mobile applications such as ArcSite.

Capture detailed photos and field notes documenting devices, infrastructure, and installation barriers.

Data Analysis & System Recommendations

Gather, organize, and analyze all data from field surveys including floor plans, device counts, and environmental/structural limitations.

Identify system improvements, recommend device placement or technology substitutions, and highlight installation‑related challenges.

Contribute to solution design with an emphasis on accuracy, constructability, and adherence to company standards.

Estimating & Pre‑Sales Support

Develop accurate estimates based on survey findings, system requirements, and installation complexity.

Support Sales and Engineering throughout the pre‑bid cycle by validating scope, assumptions, and required labor/materials.

Attend and participate in joint sales calls

Builds estimates and design deliverables: Creates fire and security estimates, designs, scopes of work (SOWs), BOMs, and other documents needed for proposals.

Supports restricted and government accounts: Qualified to conduct surveys and build estimates for sensitive or restricted customer sites.

Documentation & Technical Deliverables

Prepare complete deliverables including device inventories, floor plans, survey forms, vulnerability assessments, photographs, and written reports.

Document installation considerations, integration needs, and code‑driven requirements thoroughly.

Produces drawings and technical documents: Develops shop drawings, designs, SOWs, and critical pre‑bid documents to support proposals.

Subcontractor & Vendor Relationships

Maintain awareness of local regulations, subcontractor availability, and installation best practices.

Maintains subcontractor relationships when required: Keeps active connections with local subcontractors and understands core security products to support smooth estimating and project execution.

Communication & Collaboration

Communicate findings effectively with Sales, Operations, and Engineering stakeholders.

Engage directly with customers to clarify scope, gather missing information, and set expectations.

Work cross‑functionally to guide projects from survey through proposal development.

Establish a collaboration channel with FDEs, HLEs, and PODs

Act as a mentor and coach through the Ambassador and BEST programs and conduct ongoing sales value‑add training sessions.

Problem Solving & Professional Attributes

Identify out‑of‑scope or high‑risk conditions and escalate appropriately.

Adapt to various methods for obtaining missing documentation (e.g., as‑builts, digital scans).

Demonstrate high attention to detail, accuracy, and adherence to timelines.

Proactively stay current with product updates, technical standards, and industry best practices.

What we look for

Required:

3–5 years of experience in site surveying, system estimating, or installation of security/fire systems.

Strong knowledge of fire alarm and security systems including sensors, control panels, access control, and detection devices.

Proficiency with mobile CAD tools (e.g., ArcSite) and measurement devices.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Strong analytical and problem‑solving ability.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

High attention to detail with a proactive compliance‑focused mindset.

Basic Fire Alarm installation knowledge (ESA/NTS methods).

Preferred

5+ years of experience in system design, installation, or cost estimating for commercial security or fire systems.

NICET Level I or II certification (or ability to obtain within 18 months).

Experience preparing integrated security solutions and detailed pre‑bid documentation.

Physical Requirements – with or without accommodation

Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, and climb ladders

Ability to lift and carry objects up to 25–50 lbs.

Ability to focus on detailed measurements (with or without correction)

Active driver's license and acceptable driving record

HIRING SALARY RANGE: $70,000 to $95,000 (Salary to be determined by the education, experience,
knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market
data.) This role offers a competitive Bonus plan that will take into account individual, group,
and corporate performance. This position includes a competitive benefits package. The
posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize
that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical
profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we
encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use
technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate
candidates. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please
visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers sit