Upfit Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About Model 1 Commercial Vehicles: Since we got our start in 1980, Model 1 Commercial Vehicles has grown to become the nation's largest dealership, representing more than 20 top manufacturers across the U.S. And we did it all by listening to and investing in customers like you. Customers who want more than a dealer. Customers who want a partner in creative solutions to the challenges you face today, and visionary thinking for what's next. It's the strength of our relationships - both with customers and manufacturers - that allows us to keep a finger on the pulse of what our customers need and what's possible to not just source but create together. Whether it's custom-built vehicles or alternative fuel and electric vehicle (EV) options, customers have a partner from challenge all the way through solution and beyond.

Our Core Values: At Model 1, we are committed to living our core values:

• Solving Problems: Trust what you know. Work together to find solutions.  See every angle and figure it out.
• Setting the Tone: Establish the mood that puts others at ease. Be the person that you'd want to interact with - approachable and transparent.
• Drive Forward: Keep your eyes up to see what's ahead. Imagine better methods.  Seize opportunities.  Move the business and the market, meaningfully.
• Find Balance: Match your energy at work to your energy with family, friends, and community. Decide and align your priorities.  Pour into yourself and those around you.
• Own It: Take the extra step. Fix issues when they come up.  Care from start to finish.  Do the right thing, every time.

Job Summary: The Quoting & Upfit Configuration Specialist is responsible for transforming customer requirements, sales estimates, and conceptual vehicle specifications into complete and accurate quotations for cargo vans, commercial trucks, and specialty vehicle upfits. This role serves as the bridge between Sales, Engineering, Operations, and Production by ensuring all required labor, materials, electrical components, programming, installation requirements, and compliance considerations are properly identified and costed before a quote is released. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience with commercial vehicle upfitting, truck equipment installation, electrical systems, and OEM body builder requirements. This individual understands not only the visible equipment being quoted but also the supporting components and labor required to successfully install and integrate those systems.

• Competitive benefits including health insurance, paid holidays, and vacation pay
• Continuous training and development opportunities
• Access to a nationwide network of industry experts and mentors
• Industry-leading technology and systems
• Opportunity to directly influence profitability, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction

Quoting & Configuration

• Develop complete and accurate quotes for commercial vehicle upfits, cargo vans, work trucks, and specialty vehicle applications
• Review customer requirements, vehicle specifications, and sales requests to determine all labor, materials, and installation requirements
• Convert conceptual estimates into executable production quotes with accurate labor hours and material costs
• Identify all supporting components required for installation, including but not limited to:
  • Wiring harnesses
  • Circuit protection
  • Relays and solenoids
  • Auxiliary batteries
  • Battery isolation systems
  • Power distribution components
  • Connectors and mounting hardware
  • Vehicle programming requirements
  • OEM interface modules
  • Safety equipment and compliance items
• Validate installation feasibility and ensure quotes align with operational capabilities and manufacturing standards

• Review and interpret OEM Body Builder Guides and manufacturer upfit requirements
• Ensure vehicle modifications comply with OEM guidelines and warranty requirements
• Evaluate electrical loads and power requirements for aftermarket equipment installations
• Understand chassis limitations and integration requirements for:
  • Liftgates
  • Service bodies
  • Flatbeds
  • Utility bodies
  • Cargo management systems
  • Lighting packages
  • Inverters
  • Auxiliary power systems
  • Mobility equipment
  • Specialty commercial vehicle applications
• Coordinate with Engineering, Operations, Service, and Purchasing to validate quote assumptions and installation methods

• Create and maintain standard labor templates, canned jobs, and pricing structures within Excede
• Analyze actual labor performance and adjust standards as needed
• Maintain accurate pricing databases for labor and materials
• Support continuous improvement efforts to improve quote accuracy and profitability
• Assist Purchasing with sourcing specialty parts and identifying cost-effective alternatives
• Manage HubSpot quote requests and maintain timely response expectations

• 5+ years of commercial vehicle upfit, truck equipment, fleet, service body, or specialty vehicle industry experience
• Strong understanding of vehicle electrical systems and aftermarket equipment integration
• Experience developing labor estimates and installation standards
• Ability to interpret vehicle specifications, wiring diagrams, installation manuals, and technical documentation
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ERP/CRM systems

• Experience with Ford, GM, Ram, Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner, or commercial chassis platforms
• Familiarity with OEM Body Builder Guides and vehicle integration requirements
• Knowledge of FMVSS requirements and commercial vehicle compliance standards
• ASE certification or demonstrated understanding of automotive electrical and electronic systems
• Experience with multiplex electrical systems, CAN bus architecture, and vehicle programming requirements
• Experience with Excede, HubSpot, or similar ERP/CRM platforms
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a technical, automotive, engineering, or business-related field

• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer work
• Ability to occasionally inspect vehicles, equipment, and installations in production or service environments
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds