Sprinkler Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sprinkler Design Manager

Company: Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co.

Location: Warrendale, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Engineering / Fire Protection Design Management

Date Posted: April 29, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage a team of sprinkler designers to ensure timely and accurate preparation of field installation drawings and fabrication lists.

• Coordinate design workload and project timelines with Sales and Project Management teams to maintain operational efficiency and client satisfaction.

• Provide expert guidance on fire sprinkler design strategies, code compliance (NFPA), and hydraulic calculations to support the design team.

• Directly contribute to the design effort by preparing fire sprinkler drawings and calculations, ensuring accuracy and effectiveness for construction approval.

• Oversee the creation of precise stock listings for materials and manage requisitions upon final drawing approval.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Manager" within a specialized engineering discipline (Fire Protection Design). The responsibilities clearly indicate a blend of technical expertise, team leadership, and cross-functional coordination, aligning it with a senior operational management function within the construction and engineering sector. The focus on "design workload," "timely preparation," and "coordination with Sales & Project Management" points towards a critical role in the GTM (Go-To-Market) and project delivery pipeline.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and manage the sprinkler design team, fostering a high-performance and collaborative environment.

• Develop and implement effective project scheduling and resource allocation strategies for the design department to meet business objectives.

• Act as a key liaison between the design team, Sales, and Project Management, ensuring seamless communication and alignment on project requirements and deadlines.

• Provide direct technical assistance and problem-solving support to designers on complex code interpretations, design strategies, and system layouts.

• Review and approve fire sprinkler drawings, hydraulic calculations, and material lists to ensure compliance with industry standards and project specifications.

• Prepare accurate fabrication lists and material requisitions, ensuring efficient procurement and inventory management.

• Stay abreast of evolving NFPA codes, industry best practices, and new design technologies to continuously improve departmental output and compliance.

• Assist in the preparation of accurate and effective construction plans for client and authority approval.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core responsibilities mention "assist with the design and layout of sprinkler systems as needed," the "Lead the design team" and "Manage schedules and assign projects" points strongly suggest this is a managerial role. The emphasis on coordination with Sales and Project Management highlights its crucial function within the broader Go-To-Market and project execution lifecycle, requiring strong operational oversight.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection Design, Engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience:

• A proven track record in fire sprinkler system design, with a minimum of 7 years of experience.

• Demonstrated experience in leading or managing a design team or technical department.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in AutoCAD: Essential for creating and manipulating complex technical drawings.

• Fire Protection Design Expertise: Comprehensive understanding of sprinkler system design principles and methodologies.

• Hydraulic Piping Calculations: Ability to perform and validate hydraulic calculations for system performance.

• NFPA Codes Knowledge: Full and current understanding of National Fire Protection Association codes relevant to fire sprinkler systems.

• Team Leadership & Management: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and manage a team of technical professionals.

• Project Scheduling & Resource Management: Skills in planning, assigning, and tracking design projects effectively.

• Analytical and Mathematical Aptitude: Strong capacity for problem-solving using quantitative methods.

• Organizational Skills: Excellent ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and documentation.

• Self-Starter Mentality: Ability to work independently and proactively within a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• HydraCAD/Autosprink Proficiency: Experience with specialized fire sprinkler design software is a significant advantage.

• NICET Certification: Level 3 or 4 preferred; Level 2 minimum required. This demonstrates a recognized standard of competence in fire protection engineering and design.

• Construction Plan Review: Experience in reviewing and approving construction documents for accuracy and compliance.

• Material Requisition & Inventory Management: Familiarity with procurement processes for construction materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for NICET certification (Level 2 minimum, Level 3 or 4 preferred) is a strong indicator of the expected technical depth and professional standing. The preference for HydraCAD/Autosprink highlights the importance of specific, industry-standard design software proficiency, which is critical for efficient operational output.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Showcase: A collection of past fire sprinkler design projects, demonstrating a range of complexity and system types. Each project should highlight the challenges faced, the design solutions implemented, and the final outcomes.

• Process Optimization Examples: Evidence of how you have improved design workflows, reduced design cycle times, or enhanced the accuracy of drawings and calculations in previous roles. Quantifiable improvements are highly valued.

• System Implementation Standards: Documentation or examples that illustrate your understanding of implementing design specifications within a construction environment, including coordination with fabrication and installation teams.

• Code Compliance Documentation: Examples of how you ensure and document adherence to NFPA codes and other relevant regulations throughout the design process.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Ability to document and map existing design workflows, identify bottlenecks, and propose optimized processes for increased efficiency and accuracy.

• Implementation and Automation: Experience in implementing new design processes or leveraging software capabilities (like HydraCAD/Autosprink) to automate repetitive tasks and improve design output.

• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Skills in defining key performance indicators (KPIs) for the design team (e.g., turnaround time, accuracy rates, budget adherence) and reporting on performance against these metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a managerial role overseeing design, a portfolio demonstrating process improvement and team management is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to showcase how they've optimized workflows, improved efficiency, and ensured quality through structured processes, not just individual design capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Sprinkler Design Manager with 7+ years of experience, NICET Level 2+, and proficiency in AutoCAD/Hydraulic calculations in the Warrendale, PA area, the estimated annual salary range is $95,000 - $130,000. This estimate considers the specialized nature of fire protection engineering, management responsibilities, and the cost of living in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to support employee well-being.

• Income Protection: Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability coverage, providing financial security.

• Flexible Coverage Options: Access to optional supplemental benefits for enhanced personal coverage.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of PTO starting from the first year of employment, allowing for work-life balance.

• Paid Holidays: Seven (7) designated paid holidays annually.

• Retirement Savings: 401K retirement plan with a safe harbor match, offering both traditional and Roth contribution options.

• Work Environment: Business casual office setting that promotes comfort and professionalism.

• Supportive Culture: A team-oriented culture that values collaboration, professional growth, and employee development.

• Employee Referral Program: Bonus opportunities for referring successful candidates, promoting internal networking.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.

• Business casual office environment.

• Occasional travel up to 25% may be required, including site visits to customer facilities or field sites.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on the role's seniority, technical specialization (Fire Protection Engineering), geographic location (Warrendale, PA), and the inclusion of management responsibilities. Data from industry salary surveys for engineering managers and specialized design roles in similar regions were considered.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fire Protection Systems / Construction Services. Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co. operates within a critical sector focused on safety and compliance, serving commercial, industrial, and residential clients.

Company Size: The provided data does not specify the exact company size; however, operating multiple locations and offering a comprehensive range of services suggests a medium to large-sized enterprise within its niche.

Founded: Information on the founding date is not provided.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: This role leads the Sprinkler Design team, which is a core operational unit responsible for the technical output that drives project execution.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The manager will work closely with the Sales Team (pre-sales technical consultation, bid support) and the Project Management Team (post-sales project execution, client liaison, timeline adherence).

• Reporting: Likely reports to a Director of Engineering, Operations Manager, or a senior executive overseeing all technical departments.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on accurate hydraulic calculations and adherence to NFPA codes for system integrity.

• Workflow Optimization: Focus on efficient processes for preparing drawings, fabrication lists, and material requisitions to meet project deadlines.

• Collaboration and Communication: Strong requirement for seamless interaction with sales, project management, and field teams to ensure project success.

Company Website: firefighter-pgh.com (derived from domain)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on fire protection implies a culture deeply rooted in safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance. This translates into a demand for precision, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of technical specifications within the operations team.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a significant step into management within the Fire Protection Design field. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise and leadership capabilities, positioning the individual as a key contributor to the company's operational success and project delivery.

Reporting Structure: The Sprinkler Design Manager will likely report to a senior operations or engineering leader, managing a team of designers. This position acts as a critical bridge between technical design and broader business objectives.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts revenue by ensuring that designs are accurate, efficient, and delivered on time, which is crucial for securing bids, managing project costs, and maintaining client satisfaction. Effective design management is foundational to project profitability and company reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Potential to become a subject matter expert in advanced fire suppression systems or specific industry codes.

• Leadership Advancement: Opportunity to move into higher-level management roles such as Director of Engineering, VP of Operations, or similar executive positions.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead initiatives to implement new technologies or methodologies that enhance the entire design and project lifecycle.

• Business Development Support: Contribute technical expertise to sales strategies and new market exploration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a manager in this specialized field typically involves expanding responsibilities within operations, potentially leading larger teams, overseeing multiple disciplines, or moving into broader operational leadership roles that influence company strategy and profitability.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based in an office environment, described as "Business casual." This suggests a professional yet comfortable setting conducive to focused work and collaboration.

Office Location(s): Warrendale, PA (791 Commonwealth Drive, 15086). This location is part of the greater Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The "Supportive, team-oriented culture that values collaboration and growth" indicates an environment where teamwork and shared problem-solving are encouraged.

• Tools and Technology: Access to necessary design software (AutoCAD, potentially HydraCAD/Autosprink), calculation tools, and standard office technology.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with direct reports, sales teams, project managers, and potentially other engineering disciplines.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours, expected to be around 40 hours per week.

• Up to 25% travel is anticipated, which may involve working in various conditions at customer facilities or field sites, including potentially "clean/unclean conditions, hot/cold conditions," and requiring safety equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of working "offsite at customer facilities" and "field sites" with potential for varied conditions underscores the need for adaptability and a practical understanding of on-site construction realities, even for a primarily office-based role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess qualifications against essential requirements (degree/experience, AutoCAD, NFPA, NICET).

• Technical Assessment: Likely a technical interview or a case study focusing on fire sprinkler design principles, hydraulic calculations, code knowledge, and problem-solving scenarios.

• Managerial & Behavioral Interview: Evaluation of leadership style, team management experience, conflict resolution, and collaboration skills. This may involve questions about past team successes and challenges.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of design projects, workflow improvements, and instances of code compliance or efficiency gains. Emphasis will be on how your management style and technical contributions have driven positive operational outcomes.

• Final Interview: Meeting with senior leadership to discuss strategic fit, long-term vision for the design department, and overall cultural alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Leadership: Highlight instances where you led a team to successfully complete complex projects, managed timelines, and resolved design challenges.

• Quantify Impact: Present case studies with measurable results. For example, "Reduced design turnaround time by X% by implementing Y process," or "Achieved Z% accuracy in hydraulic calculations, minimizing rework."

• Demonstrate Process Thinking: Explain your approach to workflow optimization, team training, and quality control within the design department.

• Code Expertise: Be prepared to discuss specific NFPA code requirements and how you ensure compliance.

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with AutoCAD and any specialized software like HydraCAD/Autosprink, including how you leverage them for efficiency.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You might be presented with a hypothetical design scenario and asked to outline your approach, key considerations, and potential challenges.

• Team Management Question: Prepare to discuss how you would handle a underperforming team member, manage conflicting priorities between projects, or motivate your team during high-pressure periods.

• Process Improvement Proposal: Be ready to discuss a process you would implement or improve within the design department to enhance efficiency or quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Sprinkler Design Manager" title implies that interviewers will be looking for evidence of leadership and strategic thinking, not just individual technical prowess. Candidates should prepare to articulate their management philosophy and how they drive operational excellence through their team.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for drafting and creating 2D and 3D technical drawings. Proficiency is a baseline requirement.

• HydraCAD / Autosprink (Preferred): Specialized software for fire sprinkler system design, which automates many aspects of layout, hydraulic calculations, and material takeoff. Experience here is a significant plus.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Including Word for documentation, Excel for calculations and data analysis, and PowerPoint for presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Hydraulic Calculation Software: Integrated within design packages or standalone tools used to determine system performance under various conditions.

• Reporting Tools: Capabilities to generate reports on project status, design progress, and material requirements. This may utilize features within design software or integrated business systems.

• Dashboarding (Potential): While not explicitly stated, a forward-thinking manager might use or advocate for dashboards to visualize team performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System (Indirect Use): While not directly managing CRM, understanding how design outputs feed into the sales pipeline and project management systems is crucial.

• Project Management Software (Indirect Use): Familiarity with how design tasks integrate with overall project schedules managed in systems like MS Project, Procore, or similar.

• ERP/MRP Systems (Indirect Use): Understanding how fabrication lists and material requisitions generated by the design team interface with Enterprise Resource Planning or Material Requirements Planning systems for procurement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on HydraCAD/Autosprink indicates a desire for advanced design capabilities that streamline the process, directly impacting operational efficiency and accuracy. Understanding how design outputs integrate with broader business systems (CRM, PM, ERP) is also key for a managerial role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety & Compliance: Paramount in fire protection; a deep commitment to adhering to NFPA codes and ensuring the safety of occupants.

• Accuracy & Precision: Designs must be meticulously accurate to ensure system effectiveness and prevent costly errors in fabrication and installation.

• Efficiency & Timeliness: Delivering designs and calculations within project timelines is critical for project success and client satisfaction.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with sales, project management, and the design team to achieve common goals.

• Continuous Improvement: An openness to learning new technologies, codes, and methodologies to enhance design processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires proactive engagement with Sales and Project Management to align design efforts with business objectives and project realities.

• Process Review Culture: Encouraging feedback loops within the design team to identify areas for workflow improvement and knowledge sharing.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fostering an environment where designers can share expertise, learn from each other's projects, and collectively elevate the team's capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture for a company like Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co. will heavily emphasize reliability and trust. Operations professionals here must demonstrate a commitment to quality and accuracy that directly impacts client safety and the company's reputation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Workload and Deadlines: Managing multiple complex projects with tight deadlines from Sales and Project Management requires robust prioritization and resource allocation skills.

• Staying Current with Codes: NFPA codes are updated periodically, requiring continuous learning and adaptation to ensure designs remain compliant.

• Technical Complexity: Fire sprinkler system design can involve intricate hydraulic calculations and understanding of various building types and occupancy hazards.

• Team Motivation and Development: Leading a team of technical specialists requires effective communication, performance management, and professional development support.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced NICET Certification: Pursuing Level 3 or 4 NICET certification can further validate expertise and career progression.

• Software Proficiency: Deepening skills in specialized design software like HydraCAD/Autosprink or exploring new CAD/BIM tools.

• Industry Seminars & Training: Attending workshops on new fire protection technologies, code updates, and management best practices.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participating in courses or mentorships focused on enhancing management and leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges will revolve around the operational demands of managing a critical technical function within a deadline-driven industry. Growth will come from mastering these challenges and expanding into broader operational or strategic leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a design team's workload to ensure deadlines are met while maintaining high-quality output." (Focus on prioritization, resource allocation, and process management.)

• "How do you ensure your team stays up-to-date with evolving NFPA codes and incorporates them into their designs?" (Highlight continuous learning strategies and code review processes.)

• "Walk me through a time you had to resolve a conflict or disagreement between your design team and the Sales or Project Management team." (Demonstrate communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co. and our role in the fire protection industry?" (Research the company's services, history, and market position.)

• "How would you contribute to our team-oriented and collaborative culture?" (Align your management style with the company's stated values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Case Study: Select 1-2 significant projects where you led the design effort. Detail the scope, challenges, your team's solution, and the successful outcome, including any quantifiable improvements.

• Process Improvement Example: Present a specific instance where you identified a workflow inefficiency and implemented a change that resulted in better performance (e.g., faster turnaround, fewer errors).

• Technical Expertise Demonstration: Be prepared to discuss complex design challenges, code interpretations, or hydraulic calculations you've encountered and how they were resolved.

• Leadership Narrative: Frame your experience around leading, mentoring, and developing your team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess both technical acumen and management effectiveness. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their leadership philosophy and demonstrate how they drive operational excellence through their team and processes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sprinkler Design Manager position:

• Submit your application directly through the provided Paycom link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in fire protection design, team leadership, AutoCAD proficiency, NFPA code knowledge, and any NICET certifications. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., managed a team of X designers, reduced design time by Y%).

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate examples of past design projects, focusing on your leadership role, problem-solving approaches, and any process improvements you implemented. Be ready to discuss these in detail during an interview.

• Research the Company: Understand Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co.'s services, industry standing, and commitment to safety and compliance. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions related to technical design, team management, and operational efficiency, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

⚠️ 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.