Business Development Specialist

Business Development Specialist  Location: Remote (Central Region: WI, OH, MI, IL, TX, IA, IN, WV, KY, MO, KS, MN, NE, ND, & SD) Base Salary Rate: $104,690.00 - $123,165.00 Job type: Full-time   About This Role The Business Development “Specification Sales” is responsible for building strong, consultative relationships with electrical engineers, fire protection consultants, design firms, general contractors (GCs), and electrical contractors (ECs) to ensure Kidde fire alarm systems are written into project specifications and preferred on non‑specified projects. This role blends technical expertise with strategic outreach, helping engineering and construction partners design safer, code‑compliant buildings while positioning Kidde as the go‑to fire alarm solution across all project types.   Key Responsibilities Develop and maintain relationships with engineering and construction partners Build trust with electrical engineering firms, fire protection consultants, design teams, GCs, and ECs through regular visits, presentations, and technical support. Target non‑specified projects with GCs and ECs Proactively engage GCs and ECs on projects that may not include formal engineering specifications. Work with their in‑house electrical engineers, low‑voltage teams, or special‑systems departments to introduce Kidde early and influence product preference. Promote Kidde fire alarm products and technologies Deliver compelling product demonstrations, lunch‑and‑learns, and code‑driven discussions that highlight system capabilities and value. Influence project specifications Work directly with engineers and specifiers to ensure Kidde systems are included in written specifications for new construction and retrofit projects. Provide technical guidance during design phases Support engineering, GC’s and EC teams with system layout considerations, code compliance questions, and product selection. Note: This role does not perform system layouts; instead, you will connect engineering teams with qualified dealers early for budgeting and design support. Act as a strategic connector Serve as the matchmaker between engineering firms, ECs, and GCs to ensure alignment, clarity, and smooth project progression. Identify upcoming projects early in the design cycle Track engineering activity, monitor bid platforms, and maintain a strong pipeline of specification‑driven and contractor‑driven opportunities. Collaborate with internal sales and distribution teams Ensure a seamless handoff from specification or contractor influence to quoting, bidding, and fulfillment. Represent Kidde at industry events Attend trade shows, engineering association meetings, and training events to expand brand visibility and strengthen industry relationships.  Basic Qualifications    High School Diploma or Equivalent 5+ Years of specification/OEM sales Experience in fire alarm, low‑voltage, or life‑safety systems   Preferred Qualifications    Bachelor’s degree in business administration, engineering, or related field preferred; relevant industry experience will be considered in lieu of a degree Full understanding of IFC, NFPA, and general fire alarm codes Strong understanding of electrical engineering workflows and overall construction processes Ability to read and interpret technical specifications and drawings Excellent communication and presentation skills Self‑motivated, organized, and comfortable with field‑based work Overnight domestic travel of up to 60% may be required Increased number of projects specifying Kidde fire alarm systems Greater adoption of Kidde on non‑specified GC/EC‑driven projects Expanded network of engineering and construction partners who rely on you as a trusted resource Consistent pipeline of spec‑driven and contractor‑driven opportunities handed off to sales teams