Lutron and Lightolier make some top of the line dimmers with a built in
"soft start" and a memory dim level. Family would treat it like a
switch, but it just goes to the set level. BTW any dimmer will drop
your voltage slightly.

If your system is using a transformer you'll need to find out if it's
electronic or magnetic. (Is is a small light weight plastic box or a
metal, shoe box sized one that would really hurt you foot if you
dropped it?)

Also ask your electrican! You paid him for a quality job it's his job
to deliver.

RickR