Fire Sprinkler Design Manager (56938)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Fire Sprinkler Design Manager

Company: The Hiller Companies

Location: San Diego, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Management & Leadership / Construction / Trades

Date Posted: January 19, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Managerial)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads and manages the fire sprinkler system design department, ensuring operational efficiency and project success in a fast-paced construction and service environment.

• Oversees all design projects from conception to completion, focusing on timely delivery, cost-effectiveness, and strict adherence to industry regulations and safety standards.

• Drives the technical execution of fire sprinkler system designs, including detailed CAD drawings, hydraulic calculations, and coordination with various building components and trades.

• Ensures seamless collaboration with internal teams, external contractors, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) to facilitate permitting, inspections, and overall project compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for the operational integrity of The Hiller Companies' fire protection services. The manager is expected to not only lead a technical team but also to be a hands-on contributor, embodying a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and leadership. The emphasis on NFPA standards and AutoCAD proficiency suggests a need for deep technical knowledge within the fire protection engineering domain, coupled with strong management capabilities to drive team performance and project outcomes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive fire sprinkler system designs using AutoCAD and specialized CAD software, ensuring alignment with architectural, electrical, and mechanical drawings.

• Conduct precise hydraulic calculations to validate system performance and ensure compliance with NFPA, IFC, IBC, and NEC standards.

• Interpret and apply complex construction documents, including specifications, contracts, and drawings, to inform design decisions and project execution.

• Coordinate sprinkler system piping and layouts with other building components and trades to prevent conflicts and optimize installation efficiency.

• Liaise effectively with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), contractors, and other stakeholders to manage permitting processes and inspection requirements.

• Lead and mentor the design team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, accuracy, and adherence to company safety policies and procedures.

• Participate actively in pre-design and review meetings, providing expert input on system feasibility, design strategies, and potential challenges.

• Oversee the listing of required materials for sprinkler systems and ensure accurate documentation for procurement and project management.

• Provide exceptional customer service, acting as a key point of contact for technical design inquiries and project status updates.

• Maintain accurate and auditable records of all design activities, calculations, and communications.

• Ensure all designs meet or exceed industry codes and regulatory requirements, adapting to varying system types and manufacturer specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical design execution and team leadership. The emphasis on coordination with other trades, AHJs, and participation in pre-design meetings indicates a highly collaborative role that requires strong interpersonal skills in addition to technical proficiency. The expectation to "Act Responsibly" and "Make It Fun" suggests a company culture that values both accountability and a positive work environment, which candidates should reflect in their approach.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of dedicated experience in fire sprinkler system design.

Required Skills:

• Fire Sprinkler Design: Proven ability to design complex fire sprinkler systems from concept to detailed plans.

• AutoCAD Proficiency: Expert-level proficiency in AutoCAD for creating detailed 2D and 3D designs.

• Hydraulic Calculations: Demonstrated expertise in performing accurate hydraulic calculations for fire protection systems.

• NFPA Standards: In-depth knowledge and practical application of relevant NFPA standards (e.g., NFPA 13, 14, 20, 24, 25).

• Construction Document Interpretation: Ability to read, understand, and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.

• Leadership & Team Management: Experience leading, mentoring, and managing a team of designers, fostering collaboration and accountability.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication for effective interaction with employees, customers, contractors, and AHJs.

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to address design challenges and ensure project success.

Preferred Skills:

• NICET Certification: Level I-II certification is highly preferred, demonstrating a recognized standard of expertise.

• HydraCAD/AutoSPRINK: Proficiency with specialized fire sprinkler design software such as HydraCAD or AutoSPRINK.

• 3D Visualization: Ability to effectively visualize and work with 3D concepts in design.

• Mathematics: Solid understanding of geometry and algebra for problem-solving and calculations.

• Industry Codes: Familiarity with other relevant industry codes such as IFC, IBC, and NEC.

• Travel: Willingness and ability to travel as needed for project coordination and site assessments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preference for NICET certification and specific CAD software like HydraCAD or AutoSPRINK indicates a desire for candidates who can hit the ground running with industry-standard tools and credentials. The emphasis on a minimum of 5 years in design and 2 years in leadership signifies a mid-to-senior level management role requiring both technical depth and proven leadership capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a minimum of 5 years of fire sprinkler system design projects, showcasing a variety of system types and complexities.

• Include detailed examples of AutoCAD drawings, highlighting design accuracy, coordination with other disciplines, and adherence to NFPA standards.

• Present case studies of hydraulic calculations performed, illustrating the methodology and the resulting system performance validation.

• Showcase experience with project management processes within a design context, including material listing, permitting coordination, and stakeholder communication.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your approach to designing fire sprinkler systems, from initial plan review to final design package submission.

• Detail your process for performing hydraulic calculations, including software used and validation steps.

• Describe your methods for coordinating designs with other trades (mechanical, electrical, architectural) and resolving conflicts.

• Outline your strategy for engaging with AHJs and managing the permitting and inspection process.

• Provide examples of how you have implemented or improved design processes to enhance efficiency, accuracy, or cost-effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a strong portfolio is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to present detailed design examples, demonstrating not only technical proficiency but also an understanding of the end-to-end project lifecycle within the fire protection industry. The ability to articulate process improvements and leadership impact will be key differentiators.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $110,000 - $143,909 annually

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Includes health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement Planning: Access to retirement plans.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Company-paid and voluntary life insurance, company-paid short-term disability, and voluntary long-term disability.

• Additional Insurance Options: Critical illness and accident insurance.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous paid time off.

• Professional Development: Competitive compensation package with pay advancement opportunities for industry certifications and continuing education.

• Work-Related Allowances: $150 annual boot allowance for employees required to wear safety boots.

• Company-Provided Resources: Training, tools, and equipment are provided.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (standard full-time).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a management role with specialized technical expertise in the San Diego area. The benefits package is robust, starting from the first day of employment, which is a significant advantage. The inclusion of pay advancement for certifications and continuing education strongly encourages professional growth within the fire protection engineering field.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fire Protection and Safety Solutions. The Hiller Companies is a significant player in safeguarding lives and property globally, operating across various domestic markets and internationally.

Company Size: The Hiller Companies is a large organization with offices across the United States and a global reach, indicating a structured corporate environment with opportunities for diverse project involvement.

Founded: With over 100 years in the industry, Hiller has a long-standing reputation for reliability, innovation, and commitment to safety.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will lead a team of fire sprinkler designers, likely reporting to a higher-level operations or engineering director within the San Diego branch.

• The role involves close collaboration with project managers, installation crews, sales teams, and potentially field technicians.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a data-driven approach, evident in the requirement for precise hydraulic calculations and adherence to NFPA standards.

• Workflow planning and optimization are key, as the manager is responsible for ensuring projects are completed on time and in a cost-efficient manner.

• Automation and efficiency are likely priorities, given the use of specialized CAD software and the need to coordinate complex systems.

Company Website: https://www.hillerfire.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Hiller's century-long history suggests a stable and experienced organization. The emphasis on "Passion to Perform, Trust to Act, Act Responsibly and Make It Fun" provides insight into their core values, indicating a culture that balances high performance with employee well-being and ethical conduct. Candidates should align with these values.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-to-senior level management position within the operations and engineering functions. It requires a blend of technical expertise in fire sprinkler design and proven leadership skills to manage a team and direct project outcomes.

Reporting Structure: The Fire Sprinkler Design Manager will likely report to a Branch Manager, Operations Manager, or Director of Engineering within the San Diego region. They will directly manage a team of fire sprinkler designers.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on project profitability, client satisfaction, and adherence to safety regulations. Effective design management is crucial for successful project execution, minimizing rework, and ensuring the company's reputation for quality and safety.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Potential to become a subject matter expert in specific fire protection system types or advanced design methodologies.

• Leadership Advancement: Opportunities to move into higher management roles, such as Director of Engineering, Regional Operations Manager, or VP of Operations, depending on performance and company growth.

• Professional Development: The company supports career advancement through certifications and continuing education, offering pathways for salary increases and expanded responsibilities.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Potential to move into project management, estimating, or even sales engineering roles leveraging design expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on career advancement potential within a growing company, coupled with support for continuing education and certifications, indicates a strong commitment to employee development. Candidates seeking long-term career growth in the fire protection industry will find this role attractive.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Hiller San Diego office, a dedicated branch providing fire protection and safety solutions. This suggests a professional office environment that likely includes design workstations and collaborative meeting spaces.

Office Location(s): 7130 Convoy Court, San Diego, CA 92111. This location is in a commercial/industrial area of San Diego, likely offering accessibility via major roadways.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close collaboration with other design staff, project managers, and field personnel, necessitating an environment that supports teamwork and communication.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard CAD software (AutoCAD, potentially HydraCAD/AutoSPRINK), hydraulic calculation tools, and standard office productivity software (Microsoft Office Suite).

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, project reviews, and informal interactions with colleagues are expected.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. While primarily office-based, the role may require occasional travel for site visits, client meetings, or industry events, as indicated by the "Ability to travel as needed" requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The San Diego office location suggests an environment focused on serving the Southern California market. The requirement for on-site work emphasizes the need for strong in-person collaboration, team building, and direct oversight of the design department's operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter screens applications for basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview: An interview with a hiring manager or senior engineering personnel to assess technical proficiency in fire sprinkler design, AutoCAD, hydraulic calculations, and NFPA standards.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to review the candidate's portfolio, focusing on design quality, project complexity, problem-solving examples, and leadership contributions.

• Leadership/Behavioral Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management approach, communication skills, and alignment with company core values (Passion to Perform, Trust to Act, Act Responsibly, Make It Fun).

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or regional manager for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Effectively: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase a range of skills, from complex system designs to successful leadership initiatives.

• Highlight Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, compliance achieved).

• Demonstrate Leadership: Include examples of how you've managed teams, mentored junior designers, improved processes, or resolved team conflicts.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to walk through design drawings, explain hydraulic calculations, and discuss your interpretation of NFPA standards and other codes.

• Company Alignment: Frame your experience and approach in the context of Hiller's core values and mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge, which might involve analyzing a building layout and outlining the initial design approach and considerations.

• Code Interpretation: Expect questions testing your knowledge and application of NFPA standards and other relevant building codes.

• Leadership Case Study: You may be asked to describe how you would handle a specific team management situation or a project conflict.

• Process Improvement: Prepare to discuss how you would analyze and improve existing design processes within the department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to evaluate both technical competence and leadership potential. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates achievements and demonstrates a proactive, results-oriented approach, aligned with Hiller's values, will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for creating detailed fire sprinkler system designs. Proficiency is a hard requirement.

• Specialized CAD Software: HydraCAD and/or AutoSPRINK are preferred, indicating a need for expertise in industry-specific design tools that streamline the process and enhance accuracy.

• Hydraulic Calculation Software: Tools for performing and validating hydraulic calculations, often integrated within specialized CAD packages or standalone.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is expected for reporting, documentation, and presentations. Excel is particularly important for data analysis and potentially managing project metrics.

• Project Management Software: While not explicitly mentioned, experience with project management or tracking software is beneficial for overseeing design project timelines and resource allocation.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Systems: The company likely uses internal systems for project tracking, client management, and workflow management. Familiarity with such systems and an ability to adapt quickly is key.

• Communication Platforms: Standard business communication tools (e.g., email, instant messaging) and potentially collaboration platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with AutoCAD is non-negotiable. Experience with HydraCAD or AutoSPRINK will significantly strengthen a candidate's application. The ability to leverage technology for efficiency and accuracy in design and project management is a core expectation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Passion to Perform: A drive for excellence in design quality, project execution, and client satisfaction.

• Trust to Act: Empowering individuals to take initiative and make decisions responsibly within their scope.

• Act Responsibly: Commitment to safety, ethical conduct, regulatory compliance, and delivering high-quality work.

• Make It Fun: Fostering a positive, engaging, and supportive work environment that encourages teamwork and morale.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expected to work closely with project managers, estimators, sales, and field teams to ensure designs are practical, cost-effective, and meet project requirements.

• Process Review & Feedback: An environment that encourages constructive feedback on designs and processes to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture where team members share expertise, best practices, and lessons learned to elevate the entire design department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's overtly stated core values provide a strong framework for understanding the expected workplace culture. Candidates who can demonstrate how they embody these values in their professional conduct and leadership approach will resonate well with Hiller's hiring philosophy.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Projects: Overseeing a portfolio of projects with varying complexities, client requirements, and timelines requires strong prioritization and resource allocation skills.

• Regulatory Compliance: Staying current with evolving NFPA standards, building codes, and local regulations, and ensuring all designs meet these stringent requirements.

• Team Development: Leading and motivating a team of designers, fostering skill development, and ensuring consistent performance and quality.

• Interdepartmental Coordination: Effectively bridging the gap between design, sales, project management, and field installation teams to ensure seamless project execution.

• Technological Adaptation: Keeping pace with advancements in CAD software and design technologies to maintain efficiency and competitive advantage.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Certifications: Pursuing higher levels of NICET certification or specialized training in fire protection engineering.

• Leadership Training: Access to management and leadership development programs offered by Hiller or external providers.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend industry events, such as NFPA conferences, to stay updated on best practices and network.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within The Hiller Companies or to mentor junior team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth in both technical and leadership capacities. The challenges are typical of a management position in a complex technical field, offering ample scope for skill development and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a team of designers to ensure quality and timely project delivery." (Focus on your leadership style, delegation strategies, performance management, and process oversight.)

• "Walk us through a complex fire sprinkler system design project you managed. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Highlight your technical problem-solving, coordination efforts, and client communication.)

• "How do you ensure designs comply with NFPA standards and other relevant codes, especially when facing conflicting requirements or new building designs?" (Discuss your methodology for code research, application, and documentation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you align your leadership and team management approach with Hiller's core values: Passion to Perform, Trust to Act, Act Responsibly, and Make It Fun?" (Provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated these values.)

• "What do you see as the biggest challenges in the fire sprinkler design industry today, and how does Hiller address them?" (Demonstrate your understanding of the industry and the company's position.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio presentation logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating key responsibilities. Start with an overview, dive into specific examples, and conclude with your overall impact.

• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics wherever possible to illustrate the success and impact of your designs and leadership.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, high-resolution images of your CAD work, hydraulic calculations, and any relevant project documentation.

• Storytelling: Frame your projects as narratives – problem, solution, result – to make them engaging and memorable.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your design choices, leadership decisions, and challenges faced. Be prepared to elaborate on any aspect of your portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their leadership philosophy, technical methodologies, and how they embody Hiller's core values. A well-prepared and insightful portfolio presentation is paramount for demonstrating both technical expertise and management capability.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Fire Sprinkler Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Paycom.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 5+ years of fire sprinkler design experience and 2+ years of leadership experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "AutoCAD," "Hydraulic Calculations," "NFPA Standards," and "Design Management."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a strong portfolio showcasing your best design projects, demonstrating technical skill, project scope, and problem-solving. Be ready to discuss your leadership experiences and how you implemented process improvements.

• Research The Hiller Companies: Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, services, and recent projects. Understand their commitment to safety and innovation.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions related to technical design, leadership, problem-solving, and company values. Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides a comprehensive overview based on the provided information and industry standards. Candidates are encouraged to conduct their own research and prepare thoroughly for all stages of the hiring process. The specific details of the interview process and portfolio requirements may vary.