Sprinkler Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sprinkler Design Manager

Company: Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co.

Location: Warrendale, Pennsylvania, USA

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Engineering / Operations Management

Date Posted: May 26, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage a team of sprinkler designers, ensuring efficient project execution and timely delivery of critical design documentation.

• Drive operational excellence within the design department by optimizing workflows, assigning projects, and closely coordinating with Sales and Project Management teams.

• Provide expert technical guidance on fire protection codes and design strategies, ensuring compliance and high-quality output for construction plans.

• Oversee the preparation of accurate fabrication lists and material stock requisitions, directly impacting project cost control and procurement efficiency.

• Contribute hands-on to the design process through drawing preparation and hydraulic calculations, particularly during peak demand or complex project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a management-level position within an engineering and operations context, requiring a blend of technical expertise in fire protection design and strong leadership capabilities to manage a team and cross-functional operations. The emphasis on coordination with Sales and Project Management highlights a GTM (Go-to-Market) operations function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Resource Allocation:

  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of sprinkler designers, fostering a high-performance culture.
  • Strategically manage and assign design projects to team members based on complexity, skill set, and project deadlines.
  • Monitor team performance and workload, proactively identifying and addressing potential bottlenecks or resource constraints.

• Cross-Functional Coordination:

  • Collaborate closely with the Sales Team to understand project requirements, timelines, and client expectations.
  • Liaise with the Project Management Team to ensure seamless integration of design deliverables into overall project schedules and execution plans.
  • Facilitate clear communication channels between design, sales, and project management to ensure alignment and mitigate risks.

• Technical Design & Compliance:

  • Provide expert guidance on NFPA codes, local regulations, and industry best practices for fire sprinkler system design.
  • Assist design team members in resolving complex code-related questions and design strategy challenges.
  • Review and approve fire sprinkler drawings, hydraulic calculations, and construction plans for accuracy and compliance.

• Operational Efficiency & Deliverables:

  • Oversee the timely preparation of accurate field install drawings and fabrication lists for client approval and internal use.
  • Manage the creation of precise stock listings for all required project materials and initiate the requisition process.
  • Implement and refine design processes to enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and improve project turnaround times.

• Hands-on Design Contribution:

  • Prepare fire sprinkler drawings and perform hydraulic calculations when required, especially for complex or critical projects.

  • Contribute to the overall design effort by applying technical expertise and problem-solving skills to specific project challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a management role focused on operational execution within a technical design department. The emphasis on "preparing field install drawings and fabrication lists" and "preparing an accurate stock listing of all materials" points to a critical link between design and procurement/project management operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

Experience:

• A minimum of 7+ years of progressive experience in fire sprinkler system design.

• Proven experience in a leadership or management role, overseeing design teams and projects.

Required Skills:

• Technical Proficiency:

  • Expert-level proficiency in AutoCAD for drafting and design.
  • Deep understanding and practical application of hydraulic piping calculations for fire sprinkler systems.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of NFPA codes and standards relevant to fire protection design.

• Software & Tools:

  • Demonstrated ability to work with design software (AutoCAD essential).
  • Experience with specialized fire sprinkler design software like HydraCAD and/or Autosprink is highly advantageous.

• Operational & Management Skills:

  • Strong analytical and mathematical aptitude for complex calculations and problem-solving.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills to effectively manage schedules and multiple projects.
  • Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a technical team.
  • Self-starter mentality with the ability to operate effectively in a team environment and independently.

• Certifications:

  • NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) certification is required, with a minimum of Level 2 in Sprinkler Design.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management software and methodologies.

• Familiarity with construction project lifecycles and interdependencies.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The educational and experience requirements are clearly defined, with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on design experience and recognized industry certifications (NICET). The mention of "team environment" and leadership responsibilities implies a need for strong collaboration and interpersonal skills beyond technical ability.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Showcase: A curated selection of fire sprinkler system designs, demonstrating proficiency in AutoCAD, hydraulic calculations, and adherence to NFPA codes.

• Code Compliance Examples: Specific examples illustrating how complex code requirements were met or navigated in past projects.

• System Application Diversity: Projects showcasing experience with various system types (e.g., wet pipe, dry pipe, pre-action, deluge) and system applications.

• Collaboration Evidence: Examples of how design work was integrated with project management and sales efforts, potentially through project summaries or case studies.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Optimization Case Studies: Documented instances where design processes were analyzed, improved, and led to measurable efficiency gains (e.g., reduced turnaround times, fewer revisions).

• Material Take-off & Requisition Procedures: Clear documentation of how accurate material lists are generated and how the requisition process is managed to ensure timely procurement.

• Design Review & Approval Protocols: Examples of established procedures for internal design reviews and client approval processes.

• System Implementation Support: Documentation of how the design team supports field installation and project execution, including problem-solving during the construction phase.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal "portfolio requirement," the role's responsibilities strongly imply that candidates will be evaluated on their ability to demonstrate past success in design, project coordination, and process improvement. A strong portfolio showcasing these aspects will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Sprinkler Design Manager with 7+ years of experience and NICET Level 2+ certification in the Warrendale, PA area, the estimated salary range is $90,000 - $130,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness:

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
  • Company-paid Life insurance policy.
  • Company-paid Long-Term Disability coverage.
  • Access to optional supplemental benefits for enhanced personal coverage.

• Financial Security:

  • 401K Retirement Plan with a generous Safe Harbor match.
  • Traditional and Roth 401K options available.

• Work-Life Balance:

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) accrued during the first year of employment.
  • Seven (7) paid holidays annually.

• Professional Development & Engagement:

  • Employee Referral program offering bonus opportunities.

Working Hours:

• Standard Full-Time; typically 40 hours per week.

• Office environment with potential for up to 25% travel, indicating some flexibility may be required to meet project demands or client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on national averages for similar roles and adjusted for the specific location. The provided benefits are comprehensive and align with industry standards for full-time engineering management positions. Travel up to 25% suggests a need for flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fire Protection Systems Installation & Service

Company Size: The provided LinkedIn data is not available, but the description suggests a company with dedicated Sales, Project Management, and Design departments, implying an organization of at least 50-200 employees.

Founded: Not specified, but the company appears to be established with a structured operational framework.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: This role directly manages a team of Sprinkler Designers.

• Reporting Structure: The Design Manager likely reports to a Director of Operations, Engineering, or a VP of Operations/General Manager.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Frequent interaction with Sales, Project Management, Field Installation teams, and potentially Procurement.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on accurate hydraulic calculations and adherence to NFPA codes, indicating a reliance on precise engineering data.

• Process Optimization: The role's core function involves managing schedules and workloads, suggesting a focus on efficient workflow design and execution.

• Customer-Centric Approach: Coordination with Sales and Project Management implies a commitment to meeting client needs and project timelines effectively.

Company Website: firefighter-pgh.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company operates in a critical safety sector, which often fosters a culture of precision, reliability, and accountability. The management structure implies clear lines of authority and responsibility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level management position within operations, specifically focused on the technical design aspect of fire protection systems. It requires a blend of technical expertise and leadership skills.

Reporting Structure: The Sprinkler Design Manager will report to a higher-level operations or engineering executive. They will, in turn, manage a team of individual contributor designers. This structure allows for clear delegation and oversight.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is critical to the company's operational efficiency and project success. By ensuring accurate, timely, and code-compliant designs, they directly influence:

• Project Profitability: Accurate material take-offs and efficient designs reduce waste and rework, directly impacting project margins.

• Project Timeliness: Meeting design deadlines is crucial for keeping projects on schedule, avoiding penalties, and ensuring client satisfaction.

• Company Reputation: High-quality designs and reliable systems contribute to the company's reputation for excellence and safety.

• Risk Mitigation: Adherence to NFPA codes and best practices minimizes the risk of design errors, installation issues, and potential liability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership: Potential advancement to Director of Engineering, Director of Operations, or VP of Operations, overseeing broader operational functions.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas of fire protection design or project management.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Leading company-wide initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and technology adoption.

• Business Development Support: Leveraging design expertise to support sales efforts and bid on more complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within operations management, especially within specialized industries like fire protection. The combination of technical and leadership demands prepares individuals for broader operational responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role with potential for on-site visits. The description mentions a "Business casual office environment."

Office Location(s): Warrendale, PA 15086. This is an on-site position.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Space: The design department likely operates in an environment that encourages collaboration among designers, with access to necessary workstations and software.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to powerful CAD software, hydraulic calculation tools, and potentially project management systems.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Opportunities to interact with sales, project managers, and other operational teams within the company's Warrendale office.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours, typically 40 hours per week.

• While primarily office-based, the "Up to 25% travel" indicates a need for flexibility to visit customer facilities or project sites as required for design clarification or problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The environment is characterized by a balance between focused individual work (design and calculations) and collaborative team efforts, typical for engineering departments that support larger project execution teams.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the core requirements, with a particular focus on NICET certification and AutoCAD proficiency.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be presented with a design challenge or a hypothetical scenario requiring them to outline their approach to a complex sprinkler system design problem, including code considerations and team management strategies. This may involve preparing preliminary drawings or calculations.

• Managerial Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management experience, conflict resolution skills, and ability to coordinate with other departments. Expect questions about how you would manage workload, motivate a team, and handle performance issues.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with members of the Sales and Project Management teams to evaluate communication, collaboration, and understanding of the broader project lifecycle.

• Final Interview: Typically with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, strategic vision for the design department, and long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Key Projects: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your design skills, leadership, and impact.

• Demonstrate Technical Prowess: Clearly present your AutoCAD drawings, hydraulic calculations, and any specialized software outputs. Annotate them to explain design choices and challenges.

• Showcase Code Navigation: If applicable, include examples of how you successfully navigated complex NFPA code requirements or obtained approvals for non-standard designs.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the positive outcomes of your work or your team's work. This could include reductions in design time, material waste, or errors.

• Explain Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, especially in leadership or team management capacities.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by skill demonstrated. Be prepared to walk through it concisely.

Challenge Preparation:

• NFPA Code Review: Refresh your knowledge of key NFPA codes, particularly NFPA 13 (Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems).

• Hydraulic Calculation Practice: Be ready to discuss or perform basic hydraulic calculations. Understand the formulas and inputs required.

• AutoCAD Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience and potentially demonstrate skills in AutoCAD.

• Team Management Scenarios: Think about how you would handle common team management issues, such as underperformance, conflict resolution, or workload balancing.

• Cross-Functional Problem Solving: Consider how you would address a situation where design needs conflict with sales deadlines or project constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both technical depth and managerial capability. A strong portfolio that vividly illustrates past achievements in design and leadership will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for creating detailed fire sprinkler system drawings and layouts. Proficiency is a mandatory requirement.

• HydraCAD / Autosprink: Highly preferred software for advanced fire sprinkler system design, including 3D modeling, hydraulic calculations, and automatic drawing generation. Experience with one or both is a significant plus.

• Microsoft Office Suite: For general business operations, documentation, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Hydraulic Calculation Software: Integrated within specialized design tools or standalone applications to perform complex water flow and pressure calculations.

• Performance Tracking Tools: Potentially internal systems or spreadsheets to monitor project progress, design team output, and adherence to schedules.

• Reporting Dashboards: To visualize key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design throughput, project timelines, and code compliance rates.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot): While not directly used by designers, the Design Manager will interact with sales data and project pipelines managed within CRM systems. Understanding how design impacts the sales cycle is beneficial.

• Project Management Software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Procore): Tools used for task assignment, scheduling, progress tracking, and team coordination. The Design Manager will likely use these to manage the design team's workload.

• Integration Tools: Potential for integration between design software and project management or ERP systems for seamless data flow.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD is non-negotiable. Experience with specialized fire sprinkler design software (HydraCAD/Autosprink) will significantly differentiate candidates. The role also requires an understanding of how design integrates with broader project management and sales operations tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Accuracy: A core value in fire protection, emphasizing the importance of exact calculations, detailed drawings, and strict adherence to codes.

• Reliability & Dependability: Ensuring that designs are robust and that the design team consistently meets deadlines and commitments.

• Safety & Compliance: Upholding the highest standards of safety through rigorous code compliance and best practices in design.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where designers work together, share knowledge, and contribute to collective success.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging the optimization of design processes and workflows to enhance productivity and reduce waste.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The team must actively collaborate with Sales to understand project scope and with Project Management to ensure designs align with construction realities and schedules.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging designers to share technical insights, code interpretations, and best practices to elevate the entire team's capability.

• Feedback Loops: Establishing mechanisms for feedback from field teams and project managers on design effectiveness and areas for improvement.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A culture that encourages proactive identification and collaborative resolution of design and installation challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is likely driven by the critical nature of its services, emphasizing meticulous work and a strong sense of responsibility. Effective collaboration is key to bridging the gap between initial sales and successful project installation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Workload & Deadlines: Managing multiple complex projects simultaneously while ensuring timely delivery to meet sales commitments and project schedules.

• Staying Current with Codes: Keeping abreast of evolving NFPA codes and regulations, which can change annually or biannually.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing unique site conditions, complex building layouts, or challenging hydraulic requirements that deviate from standard designs.

• Cross-Departmental Alignment: Ensuring seamless communication and coordination with Sales and Project Management, who may have differing priorities or perspectives.

• Team Development & Motivation: Leading a team of skilled designers, potentially with varying levels of experience and motivation, to consistently perform at a high level.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced NICET Certification: Pursuing NICET Level 3 or 4 to deepen technical expertise and enhance professional credentials.

• Specialized Software Training: Mastering advanced features of HydraCAD, Autosprink, or other emerging design technologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participating in company-sponsored or external training to hone management and leadership skills.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending fire protection industry events to stay updated on new technologies, codes, and best practices.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced senior management within the company regarding operational strategy and business development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities for significant professional growth by tackling complex technical and managerial challenges, with clear pathways toward senior operational leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a team of sprinkler designers to ensure all projects are delivered on time and in compliance with NFPA codes." (Focus on workload management, performance monitoring, delegation, and quality control.)

• "How do you ensure effective coordination between the design department, sales team, and project management to achieve project success?" (Highlight communication strategies, proactive problem-solving, and understanding of departmental interdependencies.)

• "Walk me through a time you had to resolve a complex technical design challenge or a dispute regarding code interpretation. What was your process and the outcome?" (Demonstrate analytical skills, problem-solving methodology, and ability to leverage technical knowledge.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co. and our role in the fire protection industry?" (Research their services, history, and any recent news.)

• "Based on your understanding, what do you believe are the biggest operational challenges facing a company like ours, and how would you address them from a design management perspective?" (Connect your expertise to their business context.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Begin with a brief overview of your career and the key highlights you'll present.

• Project Selection: Choose 2-3 impactful projects that best represent your design capabilities, leadership, and operational efficiency improvements.

• Structure Each Project: For each project, clearly outline:

  • The Challenge: What were the specific requirements or difficulties?
  • Your Role/Approach: What was your strategy for design, team management, and cross-functional collaboration?
  • The Solution: Detail the design, calculations, and materials.
  • The Results/Impact: Quantify achievements (e.g., time saved, cost reduction, successful code approval).

• Highlight Process Improvements: If you have examples of optimizing design workflows or material requisition processes, present these as distinct case studies.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design choices, hydraulic calculations, or code interpretations.

• Enthusiasm for the Role: Clearly articulate why you are interested in this specific opportunity and how your skills align with the company's needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical competence but also strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills, all within the context of operational efficiency and project success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sprinkler Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Resume: Apply through the provided Paycom link, ensuring your resume clearly highlights your years of design experience, CAD proficiency, NICET certifications, and any management experience.

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize keywords such as "Sprinkler Design," "AutoCAD," "Hydraulic Calculations," "NFPA Codes," "NICET Level [X]," "Team Leadership," "Project Management Coordination," and "Fabrication Lists."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of your best design work, focusing on clarity, technical accuracy, and any documented process improvements or successful code navigation. Be ready to present this during the interview process.

• Research the Company: Visit firefighter-pgh.com to understand their services, history, and values. Familiarize yourself with their market position and recent projects if possible.

• Practice Interview Questions: Review the suggested strategy and company questions, preparing concise and impactful answers that showcase your expertise and leadership potential.

⚠️ 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.