Pre Sales Field Engineer, Security and Fire

About the role

The BSSE Pre-Sales Field Engineer (Security & Fire) plays a crucial role in the Johnson Controls team, supporting the sales and engineering processes by conducting detailed site surveys, analyzing technical and environmental conditions, and providing accurate assessments and budgetary estimates for security and fire system installations.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Produce drawings and technical documents: Develops shop drawings, designs, SOWs, and critical pre-bid documents to support proposals.
• Maintain awareness of local regulations, subcontractor availability, and installation best practices.
• Maintain subcontractor relationships when required: Keeps active connections with local subcontractors and understands core security products to support smooth estimating and project execution.
• 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.
• Identify out-of-scope or high-risk conditions and escalate appropriately.
• Adapt to various methods for obtaining missing documentation (e.g., as-built, digital scans).
• Demonstrate high attention to detail, accuracy, and adherence to timelines.
• Proactively stay current with product updates, technical standards, and industry best practices.

Requirements

• 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.

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.