What are the responsibilities and job description for the Gear Department Manager position at Paramont-EO/Crest Lighting?
Gear Department Manager – Job Description
Location: Chicago Metropolitan Area
Industry: Electrical Distribution
Position Type: Full-time On-site
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are seeking a highly organized and experienced Gear Department Manager to lead and grow our power distribution and switchgear division within ParamontEO, an independent electrical distributor serving the Chicago construction market. This leader will oversee gear quotations, project management, vendor relations, operational excellence, and profitability, ensuring strong support for contractors and internal sales teams.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
LEADERSHIP & DEPARTMENT MANAGEMENT
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of gear specialists and project managers.
- Manage day-to-day operations of the gear department, ensuring accuracy, responsiveness, and strong customer service.
- Establish KPIs for quoting accuracy, margin performance, project execution, and cycle times.
SALES & CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT
- Support outside sales and sales managers on gear product strategy, specifications, and project requirements.
- Build strong relationships with electrical contractors, engineers, and end users in the Chicago market.
- Assist in developing new business opportunities in commercial, industrial, and institutional construction.
QUOTATIONS MANAGEMENT (Pre‑Sale)
- Oversee the complete gear quoting process, including takeoffs, equipment selection, competitive pricing, and value engineering.
- Work with team to ensure all quotes are technically accurate and meet project specifications, NEC requirements, and distributor margin goals.
- Support coordination with manufacturers for pricing, lead times, and alternative solutions.
- Ensure delivery of timely quotation processes aligned with bid deadlines and internal sales needs.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT (Post‑Sale)
- Support management of awarded gear projects from release through final delivery.
- Oversee submittal creation, approvals, release schedules, change orders, and logistics planning.
- Communicate proactively with contractors, engineers, and manufacturers to meet all project milestones.
- Resolve issues related to design revisions, shipment timing, equipment changes, and field conditions.
- Track project financials, ensuring profitability from award to closeout.
VENDOR & PRODUCT MANAGEMENT
- Maintain strong relationships with key gear and power distribution manufacturers.
- Negotiate pricing, market programs, terms, and rebates to support profitability.
- Stay current on gear product lines, code changes, and emerging technologies.
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
- Maintain accurate gear pricing, configuration tools, and preferred vendor programs.
- Build and improve department processes and workflows to support accuracy, speed, and customer satisfaction.
- Collaborate with purchasing and logistics teams to ensure seamless deliveries to job sites.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
- 5 years experience in power distribution, switchgear, or electrical distribution.
- Strong knowledge of switchgear, panelboards, transformers, and related equipment.
- Experience managing quotations and/or large construction projects.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency with ERP systems, gear configuration tools, and construction documentation.
Preferred:
- Experience with independent, regional, or national electrical distributors.
- Prior leadership of technical and/or sales driven teams.
- Knowledge of Chicago-area contractors, engineers, and rep agencies.
- Experience with major gear manufacturers (e.g., Eaton, Siemens, Square D, ABB).
SUCCESS TRAITS
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
- Strong technical mindset with excellent commercial decision-making skills.
- Customer-focused attitude with strong urgency and follow-through.
- A collaborative leader who develops and elevates team performance.
Pay: $60,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $60,000 - $120,000