Designer - Fire Alarm and/or Special Hazard Systems

Job Purpose

• Develop design packages:
  • Meet customer specifications
  • Follow applicable codes & standards
  • Adhere to AFP best practices
  • Conduct internal design reviews (as required)
• Update & revise design documents:
  • Incorporate AHJ review comments
  • Address client review comments
  • Collaborate with Sales & Marketing to estimate projects

Essential Functions

• Technical Expertise
  • Proficient in fire protection system codes, standards, and design requirements.
  • Knowledgeable of electrical, electronic, and mechanical systems.
• Design & Documentation
  • Develop design packages based on client needs, codes, and best practices.
  • Manage design budgets and consider cost impacts.
  • Build and maintain design package templates.
  • Conduct design reviews before submissions.
  • Update and revise designs based on feedback.
• Project Management
  • Collaborate with field technicians and Project Manager to continuously improve designs.
  • Proactively identify and bid on potential projects with Sales & Marketing.
  • Determine project requirements through research and communication.
  • Develop layout drawings for bidding purposes.
  • Estimate project costs including equipment, materials, and labor.
  • Review estimates with salesperson(s) for accuracy and completeness.
  • Meet bid deadlines and provide deliverables to Sales & Marketing.
• Overnight travel may be required on occasion for site visits/surveys, conferences, training, etc.

Education & Responsibilities

• Required Qualifications
  • Education:
    • Bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field (e.g., electrical, mechanical, fire protection) OR
    • Associate's degree in a relevant field with significant experience
  • Experience:
    • 3 to 5 Years Experience in fire protection systems design or related field
  • Technical Skills:
    • In-depth knowledge of fire protection system codes and standards (NFPA, IBC, etc.)
    • Proficiency in AutoCAD software for fire protection systems
    • Knowledge of electrical, electronic, and mechanical systems
    • Understanding of hydraulic calculations for suppression systems
  • Qualities:
    • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
    • Excellent attention to detail
    • Effective communication skills (written and verbal)
    • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
    • Time management skills and ability to meet deadlines
• **Desired Qualifications
  • Certifications:
    • NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) certifications (Level I - IV)
    • CFSE (Certified Fire Safety Engineer) designation
  • Experience:
    • Experience in special hazard fire protection systems
    • Project management experience
    • Experience working with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
  • Software Skills:
    • Proficiency in Building Information Modeling (BIM) software
    • Proficiency in 3D Modeling
    • Proficiency in AutoCAD extensions (e.g., ACAD Electrical, MEP)
  • Qualities:
    • Customer service orientation
    • Strong understanding of construction practices
    • Sales & estimation experience

Work Environment: Work is in a shared office setting. Communication and work are done with a variety of people, including other administrative assistants, executives, other department leaders and staff, clients, and vendors. The work environment may be fast-paced and demanding at times, with the need to multitask and prioritize tasks.

Physical Demands

The physical demands are typically minimal. However, there may be some lifting and carrying of light objects, such as files and office supplies. There may also be some sitting for extended periods.