Pre-Sales Engineer (Chicago)

Job Title: Sales Engineer
Location: Chicago
Reports to: Vice President, Engineering
About Us  
Zentro is one of the largest independent internet service providers focused exclusively on multi-dwelling units (MDUs) in the United States. Following our recent merger with BAI Connect, Zentro now serves over 100,000 subscribers across key markets including Chicago, Los Angeles, and Detroit.
We specialize in delivering bulk internet and managed Wi-Fi solutions purpose-built for apartment communities, high-rises, and mixed-use developments. Our fully owned network infrastructure, resident-first support model, and tailored technology stack enable us to offer a refreshingly different alternative to legacy providers—one rooted in simplicity, reliability, and satisfaction.
As we continue to scale, Zentro remains committed to product innovation, operational excellence, and strong partnerships with national REITs and regional property owners alike.
Role Overview
We are looking for a Sales Engineer (SE) who thrives at the intersection of technology and business development. In this role, you will partner with our Sales team to design scalable internet solutions for large MDU properties. You will be the technical voice in the room, translating complex network concepts into clear value propositions for Property Managers, Developers, and HOA Boards.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:  

• Site Surveys & Assessments: Conduct physical walk-throughs of prospective MDU properties to assess existing infrastructure (conduit availability, IDF/MDF closet space, riser capacity, and inside wiring types like Cat5e/6 or coax) and evaluate/identify potential rooftop Fixed Wireless build.
• Solution Design: Develop comprehensive network designs for "Bulk" or "Retail" deployment models. Create Bills of Materials (BOMs) and Scope of Work (SOW) documents. Work closely with Network Engineering team to compliance with Zentro network build standards.
• Technical Proposals: Assist sales teams in responding to RFPs (Requests for Proposals) and RFIs. Create network/infrastructure diagrams illustrating MDF/IDF builds and infrastructure cabling.
• Project Handoff: Collaborate with the Project Coordination and Post-Sales Engineering teams to ensure a smooth transition from signed contract to active construction to seamless deployment. Validate that the proposed engineering solution meets ROI requirements.

Qualifications:
Technical Skills

• Network Fundamentals : Strong understanding of the OSI model, TCP/IP, switching, and routing.
• Access Technologies: Familiarity with Fiber-to-the-Unit (FTTU) technologies (GPON, XGS-PON), Active Ethernet, DOCSIS or G.hn.
• In-Building Wiring: Knowledge of MDU infrastructure, including structured cabling, varying conduit types, and retrofitting techniques for older buildings.
• Wi-Fi Planning: Experience with heat mapping and managed Wi-Fi solutions (Ruckus, Ekahau, etc.) is a plus.

Professional Experience

• 3+ years in Sales Engineering, Network Engineering, or a technical implementation role within the Telecommunications/ISP industry.
• Experience specifically with Multi-Family/MDU real estate environments is highly preferred.

Soft Skills

• Ability to explain "Why Zentro?" to a non-technical property manager.
• Strong objection-handling skills regarding construction impact and aesthetics.
• Self-starter who is comfortable climbing ladders during surveys as well as wearing a suit in board meetings.

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary ($100K-$160K, depending on experience), with total on-target earnings of up to $120K-$200K, based on performance

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans. 

• Opportunity to work with a dynamic team in a growing industry. 

• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.