Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: VSC Fire & Security

Location: Baltimore, Maryland, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Fire Protection Engineering

Date Posted: February 20, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage a team of design professionals within the fire protection and life safety sector, ensuring high-quality project execution.

• Oversee the technical design process from conception through closeout, including layout, hydraulic calculations, and submittal processes.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, local codes, and jurisdictional requirements.

• Foster a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and technical excellence within the design department.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including installation, service, and sales, to deliver integrated solutions and resolve inter-trade conflicts.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the responsibilities and requirements strongly indicate a specialized role within the fire protection engineering and design field, rather than a general design management position. The emphasis on NICET certifications, NFPA codes, and specific design software like AutoCAD and SprinkCAD points to a technical leadership role focused on fire safety systems.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage, supervise, and provide technical training and mentorship to the Design Department staff, including Layout Technicians.

• Oversee all phases of the design process: initial layout, field verification and checking, material and equipment submittals, comprehensive hydraulic calculations, and final closeout procedures.

• Critically review and interpret architectural, mechanical, site, and structural drawings to ensure accurate and compliant fire suppression system designs.

• Conduct thorough site surveys to gather essential information for design development and to identify potential conflicts or challenges.

• Integrate the fire suppression system design with other mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, proactively identifying and resolving potential conflicts with other trades.

• Ensure adherence to all VSC Fire & Security policies and procedures regarding Risk Management and Safety on all job sites.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of NFPA standards, local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements, and state/local fire and building codes.

• Exercise a high degree of autonomy in organizing, planning, and prioritizing multiple complex design projects to meet stringent deadlines.

• Monitor and enforce safety policies and procedures across all design-related activities and site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical design oversight, project management, and people management. The need to integrate with other mechanical systems and recognize potential conflicts highlights the importance of understanding broader construction project dynamics beyond just fire protection.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Drafting (AutoCAD), Fire Protection Engineering, or a related technical field is desirable.

Experience:

• Minimum of five to seven years of progressive experience in fire protection system design, with a strong emphasis on AutoCAD or SprinkCAD software.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in AutoCAD and/or SprinkCAD for fire protection system design.

• In-depth knowledge of NFPA standards (e.g., NFPA 13, 14, 20, 24, 72) and relevant national, state, and local fire and building codes.

• Ability to accurately interpret complex architectural, mechanical, structural, and site drawings.

• Strong understanding of hydraulic calculations for fire suppression systems.

• Excellent organizational skills with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.

• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective stakeholder interaction and team guidance.

• Proven leadership aptitude with strong negotiation and problem-resolution capabilities.

• Proficiency in conducting detailed site surveys and documenting findings.

Preferred Skills:

• NICET Level III or IV certification is required, making it a critical qualification.

• Experience with other fire alarm or security system design principles.

• Knowledge of specific jurisdictional requirements within the Baltimore/Maryland region.

• Familiarity with project management software and methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for NICET Level III or IV is a critical differentiator and indicates a need for a highly specialized and certified professional. The experience level requirement of 5-7 years, coupled with the NICET certification, suggests a mid-to-senior level management role with significant technical depth.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of successful fire protection system designs, showcasing complexity and adherence to codes.

• Case studies detailing the process of interpreting architectural drawings and translating them into functional system designs.

• Examples of hydraulic calculations and submittal packages for review by AHJs.

• Documentation of site survey findings and how they influenced design decisions.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow examples for managing design projects from initial client consultation through final closeout.

• Documentation of quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) processes for design accuracy and compliance.

• Examples of training materials or mentorship programs developed for junior design staff.

• Processes for risk assessment and safety protocol implementation during the design and field verification phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" might not be explicitly requested in all applications, candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, project management methodologies, and instances of successful problem-solving and team leadership. This is particularly important for a management role where demonstrating process efficiency and team development is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $98,000.00 - $108,000.00+ per year (based on experience)

Benefits:

• Competitive salary package.

• Company vehicle and fuel card (for applicable positions).

• Company cell phone and/or tablet (for applicable positions).

• Paid vacation and company holidays.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options.

• Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

• Company-paid life insurance for full-time employees.

• Employee apparel program.

• Company-paid long-term disability insurance.

• Employee referral bonus program.

• Parental leave for full-time employees.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Boot Allowance.

• Reimbursement for NICET certification tests.

• Opportunities for ongoing training and professional advancement.

• Provision of all necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a strong indicator of the role's seniority and the specialized technical expertise required. The comprehensive benefits package reflects standard industry offerings for full-time, experienced professionals in the construction and engineering sectors. The mention of a company vehicle and fuel card suggests that site visits and travel are integral to the role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fire Protection, Life Safety, and Security Solutions. VSC Fire & Security operates within the construction and building services sector, focusing on integrated systems that protect lives and property.

Company Size: VSC Fire & Security is a significant player in its industry, with a presence across the Southeast. While specific employee numbers aren't provided, the description suggests an established company with multiple locations and a substantial workforce, likely placing it in the mid-to-large size category for its sector.

Founded: 1958. The company's long history emphasizes stability, experience, and a foundational commitment to quality craftsmanship, exceptional customer service, integrity, and reliability.

Team Structure:

• The Design Department is led by the Design Manager and includes Layout Technicians.

• The manager is responsible for supervision, management, and training of this team.

Methodology:

• Focus on quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service, core to the company's founding principles.

• Data-driven design through accurate interpretation of drawings, site surveys, and hydraulic calculations.

• Emphasis on integrated solutions, requiring coordination with various mechanical and building systems.

• Strict adherence to safety policies and risk management procedures.

• Commitment to continuous improvement through training and advancement opportunities.

Company Website: www.vscfire.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long-standing history and stated core values (quality, integrity, reliability, customer service) suggest a culture that values experience, professionalism, and a commitment to long-term client relationships. The "drug-free workplace" and "Equal Opportunity Employer" statements are standard but important indicators of company policy.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the technical design and engineering function of a specialized construction/service company. It requires a combination of deep technical expertise in fire protection design and proven leadership capabilities. The scope includes departmental management, technical oversight, and ensuring compliance with critical industry standards.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Engineering, Operations Manager, or a similar senior leadership role within the company's operational structure. They will manage a team of designers and technicians.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly impacts project profitability, client satisfaction, and, most importantly, life safety. Accurate and compliant designs prevent costly rework, ensure project timelines are met, and guarantee that systems function as intended during emergencies, thereby protecting lives and property. Successful coordination with other trades also minimizes construction delays and disputes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to higher leadership roles within the engineering or operations departments (e.g., Director of Engineering, VP of Operations).

• Specialization in specific types of fire protection systems or complex project management.

• Opportunities for further professional development, including advanced training and certifications relevant to fire protection and engineering management.

• Potential to contribute to company-wide process improvements and strategic planning related to design and technical services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Opportunities for training and advancement" benefit explicitly points to a company that invests in its employees' professional development, which is crucial for career growth in specialized technical fields like fire protection engineering.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based in Baltimore, Maryland, and is an on-site role. The work environment will likely involve a professional office setting for design tasks, complemented by frequent site visits to project locations.

Office Location(s): Baltimore, Maryland, United States. The specific office address is not provided but is implied to be a functional workspace for the design team.

Workspace Context:

• The design team likely works in a collaborative office environment where designers can consult with each other and the manager.

• Access to necessary design software (AutoCAD, SprinkCAD) and hardware will be provided.

• The role requires regular interaction with project managers, field supervisors, sales representatives, and potentially clients or general contractors during site visits.

• A professional atmosphere is expected, aligning with the company's long-standing reputation.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. Given the nature of project deadlines and site requirements, some flexibility or occasional extended hours might be necessary, though not explicitly stated. The role emphasizes autonomy in planning and prioritizing, suggesting a degree of control over daily task management within the 40-hour framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "company vehicle" and "boot allowance" strongly suggests that on-site work, including site surveys and project inspections, is a significant component of the role, beyond typical office-based design tasks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to ensure minimum qualifications (experience, NICET level) are met.

• Technical Assessment: Potential for a technical interview or discussion focused on fire protection codes (NFPA), design software proficiency (AutoCAD/SprinkCAD), and problem-solving scenarios related to design integration and site challenges.

• Managerial/Leadership Interview: Evaluation of leadership style, team management experience, conflict resolution skills, and ability to motivate a design team.

• Site Survey/Design Case Study: Candidates may be asked to discuss past projects, walk through their design process for a hypothetical or real scenario, or present elements from their portfolio.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior management to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and alignment with company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Technical Expertise: Showcase specific projects where you demonstrated deep knowledge of NFPA standards and code compliance.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Include examples of how you managed design teams, mentored junior staff, or resolved design-related conflicts.

• Showcase Process Improvement: Present case studies where your design decisions or process optimizations led to cost savings, efficiency gains, or improved safety outcomes.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Reduced design rework by X%", "Successfully managed Y projects simultaneously").

• Prepare to Discuss Drawings: Be ready to explain your interpretation of architectural/mechanical drawings and how you translated them into fire protection designs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Code Knowledge: Refresh your understanding of key NFPA standards relevant to fire suppression and alarm systems.

• Software Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience and proficiency with AutoCAD and SprinkCAD.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about common challenges in fire protection design, such as integrating systems, dealing with difficult site conditions, or coordinating with other trades.

• Leadership Examples: Prepare specific examples of situations where you led a team, managed difficult stakeholders, or made critical decisions under pressure.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the NICET certification requirement, interviewers will likely probe deeply into the candidate's understanding and application of specific code requirements and design principles. The management aspect means behavioral questions about leadership, team development, and conflict resolution will be prominent.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for creating detailed fire protection system layouts, schematics, and plans. Proficiency expected for both the manager and the team.

• SprinkCAD: Specialized software for fire sprinkler system design, often used for hydraulic calculations and layout.

• Hydraulic Calculation Software: Tools used to perform necessary calculations for system performance and water supply requirements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Software: Likely used for tracking project progress, deadlines, and resource allocation (e.g., Procore, MS Project, or similar).

• Internal Reporting Tools: For tracking departmental performance, budget adherence, and key design metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System: While not directly a design tool, understanding how designs feed into sales quotes and project management within a CRM might be beneficial for cross-functional awareness.

• Document Management Systems: For organizing and sharing project files, drawings, and submittals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical tools are AutoCAD and SprinkCAD, with a strong emphasis on hydraulic calculations. The manager must not only be proficient but also capable of overseeing and ensuring the quality of work produced using these tools by their team.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality Craftsmanship: A foundational value since 1958, emphasizing precision and excellence in design.

• Exceptional Customer Service: Commitment to meeting and exceeding client expectations throughout the design and project lifecycle.

• Integrity and Reliability: Operating with honesty, transparency, and dependability in all dealings.

• Safety First: Prioritizing the well-being of employees, clients, and the public through rigorous safety protocols.

• Teamwork and Collaboration: Fostering an environment where individuals work together effectively across departments to achieve common goals.

• Continuous Improvement: Encouraging learning, professional development, and process optimization to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with installation crews, service technicians, sales teams, and potentially general contractors and other building trades to ensure designs are practical, coordinated, and efficiently implemented.

• Process-Oriented: Emphasis on well-defined design processes, quality control checks, and clear communication channels to prevent errors and delays.

• Mentorship and Development: The manager is expected to actively train, guide, and develop the skills of their design team, fostering a culture of shared learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and stated values suggest a stable, professional, and results-oriented work environment. The "Equal Opportunity Employer" and "drug-free workplace" policies are standard but reinforce a commitment to a professional and safe operational environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Code Interpretation: Navigating evolving NFPA standards and diverse local AHJ requirements can be challenging.

• Inter-Trade Coordination: Effectively integrating fire protection designs with other building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing) requires constant vigilance and communication to avoid conflicts.

• Site-Specific Constraints: Adapting designs to unique site conditions, existing structures, and client specifications demands creative problem-solving.

• Managing Diverse Skill Sets: Leading a team with varying levels of experience and technical proficiency requires tailored management approaches.

• Maintaining Timeliness: Balancing the need for meticulous design accuracy with project deadlines in a fast-paced construction environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced NICET Certification: Pursuing higher levels of NICET certification or specialized certifications in fire alarm systems or specific suppression technologies.

• Leadership Training: Developing management and leadership skills through company-provided programs or external courses.

• Industry Conferences and Seminars: Staying current with the latest trends, technologies, and code changes in fire protection and life safety.

• Cross-Training: Gaining exposure to other aspects of VSC Fire & Security's operations, such as installation best practices or service protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges listed are typical for senior roles in specialized engineering and design fields within construction. The growth opportunities align with career progression within VSC and the broader fire protection industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex fire protection design project you managed. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Focus: Project management, problem-solving, technical depth)

• "How do you ensure your team stays up-to-date with the latest NFPA codes and local jurisdictional requirements?" (Focus: Continuous learning, process management)

• "Walk me through your process for interpreting architectural drawings and conducting a site survey to inform a fire suppression system design." (Focus: Technical process, attention to detail)

• "How would you handle a situation where a conflict arises between your design and another trade's installation on a job site?" (Focus: Collaboration, conflict resolution)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about VSC Fire & Security's history and core values?" (Focus: Research, cultural alignment)

• "How do you align your team's work with the company's commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer service?" (Focus: Understanding company mission)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or complexity. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the challenges, your solutions (highlighting design choices and code compliance), and the results (e.g., successful installation, client satisfaction).

• Technical Detail: Be prepared to discuss specific NFPA codes, hydraulic calculations, and AutoCAD/SprinkCAD features used.

• Leadership Examples: Integrate examples of team management, mentorship, and problem-solving within the project narratives.

• Visuals: Use clear drawings, schematics, or photos where possible to illustrate your work.

• Conciseness: Focus on the most impactful projects and tailor your presentation to the requirements of the Design Manager role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be ready to discuss both their technical design skills and their managerial capabilities. Demonstrating a proactive approach to code compliance, safety, and team development will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the greenhouse.io job board.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 5-7+ years of experience in fire protection design, specifically mentioning AutoCAD, SprinkCAD, NICET Level III/IV certification, and your experience with NFPA codes. Quantify achievements in project management and team leadership where possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Be ready to discuss specific projects that showcase your design expertise, problem-solving skills, and leadership abilities. Prepare to articulate your design process and how you ensure code compliance and safety.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with VSC Fire & Security's services, history, mission, and values. Understand their position in the fire protection industry.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering behavioral and technical questions related to fire protection design, code compliance, site surveys, system integration, and team management.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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