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 / Operations 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, ensuring efficient project workflow and timely delivery of design deliverables.

• Oversee the planning and assignment of design workload in close collaboration with Sales and Project Management teams.

• Provide technical guidance and expertise on fire sprinkler system design strategies and relevant code compliance (NFPA).

• Prepare detailed construction plans, hydraulic calculations, and accurate material stock lists for effective project execution.

• Drive process improvements within the design department to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and overall project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges technical design expertise with operational management. The focus on "revenue operations" in this context refers to optimizing the design process to directly impact sales conversion rates and project profitability, rather than traditional sales operations metrics. The managerial aspect requires a strong understanding of workflow design, resource allocation, and cross-functional team coordination.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Management: Direct, mentor, and develop a team of sprinkler designers, fostering a high-performance culture.

• Workload Planning & Allocation: Strategically manage the design department's schedule, assigning projects based on complexity, team member expertise, and client deadlines.

• Sales & Project Management Collaboration: Liaise with Sales and Project Management teams to align design timelines with overall project schedules and client expectations.

• Technical Design & Review: Assist in the detailed design and layout of fire sprinkler systems, providing expert review and guidance on complex design challenges and code interpretations.

• Code Compliance & Strategy: Ensure all designs adhere to current NFPA codes and industry best practices, advising the team on effective design strategies.

• Drawing & Calculation Production: Oversee the preparation of accurate field install drawings, fabrication lists, and hydraulic calculations.

• Material Requisition: Generate precise stock listings of all required materials upon completion of approved drawings and requisition same.

• Process Optimization: Identify opportunities to improve design processes, implement new technologies, and enhance overall departmental efficiency.

• Stakeholder Communication: Effectively communicate design progress, challenges, and solutions to internal teams and external stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical oversight and operational execution. The explicit mention of "preparing field install drawings and fabrication lists" and "preparing an accurate stock listing" highlights the critical link between design and downstream operational processes like procurement and installation, which is key for revenue enablement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

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

Required Skills:

• Sprinkler System Design Expertise: Comprehensive understanding of fire sprinkler system design principles and methodologies.

• AutoCAD Proficiency: Advanced skills in AutoCAD for creating detailed technical drawings.

• Hydraulic Calculations: Working knowledge and practical application of hydraulic piping calculations.

• NFPA Code Knowledge: Full and up-to-date knowledge of relevant NFPA codes and standards pertaining to fire sprinkler systems.

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

• Project Management Fundamentals: Understanding of project scheduling, resource allocation, and deadline management.

• Analytical & Mathematical Aptitude: Strong ability to analyze complex data and perform intricate calculations.

• Organizational Skills: Excellent ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain meticulous records.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify issues, analyze root causes, and implement effective solutions.

• Communication Skills: Clear and concise verbal and written communication skills for technical and managerial interactions.

Preferred Skills:

• HydraCAD/Autosprink Proficiency: Experience working with specialized sprinkler design software such as HydraCAD or Autosprink.

• NICET Certification: NICET Level 3 or Level 4 certification in sprinkler design is highly preferred, indicating advanced competency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a 4-year degree or 7+ years of experience, combined with NICET certification, signifies a role requiring deep technical expertise and a strong foundation in fire protection engineering principles. Proficiency in AutoCAD is standard, but the preference for HydraCAD/Autosprink indicates a desire for candidates familiar with industry-specific, advanced design tools that streamline the process from design to fabrication.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase a range of fire sprinkler system designs, demonstrating complexity, scale, and adherence to code.

• Workflow Optimization Case Studies: Present examples where you identified inefficiencies in a design process and implemented changes that led to measurable improvements in speed, accuracy, or cost.

• System Implementation Examples: Detail projects where you managed the transition from design to fabrication and installation, highlighting coordination with other operational teams.

• ROI Demonstration: Include examples of how your design strategies or process improvements have positively impacted project profitability, reduced material waste, or improved client satisfaction.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Provide examples of documented design workflows, including stages from initial client consultation or sales handoff through to final drawing submission.

• System Implementation: Showcase documentation related to the implementation of design specifications into fabrication and installation guides, emphasizing clarity and detail.

• Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how you have tracked and analyzed design team performance, using metrics related to project completion times, accuracy, and resource utilization.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a management role in a technical design field, a portfolio should not only showcase completed projects but also illustrate the candidate's ability to manage processes, optimize workflows, and lead teams to achieve operational excellence. The emphasis on ROI is crucial for demonstrating business acumen beyond pure technical design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Income Protection: Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability coverage.

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

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued PTO available from the first year of employment.

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

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

• Employee Referral Program: Bonus opportunities for successful referrals.

Working Hours:

• Standard business hours are typically 40 hours per week. The role operates in a business casual office environment, with potential for up to 25% travel to customer facilities or field sites.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on similar management roles in engineering and construction in the Warrendale, PA area, factoring in the specialized nature of fire protection design and the required NICET certification. The benefits package is comprehensive, offering standard protections and retirement planning, which are competitive in the industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fire Protection Systems & Services

Company Size: Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co. is a mid-sized company, likely employing between 50-250 individuals based on typical industry structures for such specialized service providers. This size often allows for a balance of established processes and a more personal, collaborative work environment.

Founded: While the founding date isn't specified, Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co. has established itself as a provider in the Pittsburgh region, suggesting a history of reliable service and growth within the local market.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: This role directly leads the Sprinkler Design team, which is a critical component of the company's service delivery.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The manager will work closely with the Sales Team (for project acquisition and scope definition) and the Project Management Team (for project execution, scheduling, and client communication).

• Reporting: Typically, a Design Manager would report to a Director of Engineering, Operations Manager, or a VP of Operations, depending on the company's organizational hierarchy.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: The emphasis on hydraulic calculations, code compliance, and material lists suggests a methodology grounded in technical accuracy and adherence to established standards.

• Process-Oriented Workflow: The need to manage schedules and assign projects points to a structured approach to design delivery, aiming for efficiency and predictability.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: The expectation to assist the team with code and design strategy questions indicates a culture that values shared knowledge and collaborative problem-solving.

Company Website: firefighter-pgh.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on fire protection implies a culture deeply rooted in safety, responsibility, and technical precision. A mid-sized company often fosters a close-knit team environment where individual contributions are visible, and collaboration is essential for success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-to-senior level management position. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in fire sprinkler design and demonstrated ability to lead a team, manage processes, and collaborate with other departments. It's a key operational role that directly influences project profitability and client satisfaction.

Reporting Structure: The Sprinkler Design Manager will likely report to a higher-level operations or engineering executive, such as a Director of Engineering, Operations Director, or VP of Operations. They will directly manage a team of designers.

Operations Impact: The Sprinkler Design Manager has a significant impact on the company's revenue and operational efficiency.

• Revenue Enablement: Accurate and timely designs are crucial for sales to close deals and for projects to proceed smoothly, minimizing delays and cost overruns.

• Profitability: Efficient design processes and minimized material waste directly contribute to project profitability.

• Client Satisfaction: High-quality, code-compliant designs lead to successful installations and satisfied clients, fostering repeat business and positive referrals.

• Risk Mitigation: Ensuring adherence to NFPA codes and best practices minimizes design-related risks and potential liabilities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Management: Potential to advance into roles such as Director of Engineering, Director of Operations, or VP of Operations, overseeing larger teams or broader operational functions.

• Specialized Technical Leadership: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in advanced fire protection technologies or complex design challenges.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead company-wide initiatives focused on optimizing operational workflows and implementing new design technologies.

• Business Development Support: Contribute technical expertise to sales efforts, assisting in bid proposals and client consultations for complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Sprinkler Design Manager in an operations-focused company typically leads to broader management responsibilities or deeper technical specialization. The emphasis on process and team leadership indicates a clear trajectory towards senior operational roles.

🌐 Work Environment

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

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at 791 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086. This location is within the Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office serves as a central point for design team coordination, inter-departmental meetings with Sales and Project Management, and technical problem-solving sessions.

• Technology & Tools: Access to industry-standard design software (AutoCAD, potentially HydraCAD/Autosprink), calculation tools, and communication platforms will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with the design team, project managers, sales representatives, and potentially senior leadership to discuss project status, operational challenges, and strategic initiatives.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, with an expected commitment of 40 hours per week. While the core hours are in the office, the "up to 25% travel" indicates flexibility might be required to visit customer sites or field locations for project assessments or client meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "clean/unclean conditions, hot/cold conditions" for offsite work suggests that while the primary role is office-based, there's an expectation of adaptability and willingness to engage with varied site environments when necessary for project success.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the core requirements (degree, years of experience, AutoCAD, NFPA knowledge, NICET).

• Technical & Leadership Interview: This stage will likely involve in-depth questions about your sprinkler design experience, project management methodologies, and leadership style. Expect scenarios testing your knowledge of NFPA codes, hydraulic calculations, and team management.

• Portfolio Review: You will be asked to present and discuss specific projects from your portfolio, highlighting your design process, problem-solving approaches, and the impact of your work on project outcomes. Be prepared to articulate your role in optimizing workflows and leading teams.

• Cross-functional Team Interaction: You may meet with members of the Sales and Project Management teams to assess your collaboration style and ability to work effectively across departments.

• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to evaluate overall fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential within the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Leadership: Highlight projects where you managed a design team, coordinated with other departments, or implemented process improvements.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the positive outcomes of your work (e.g., "reduced design time by 15%", "improved material accuracy by 10%", "successfully managed X number of concurrent projects").

• Process Focus: Clearly articulate your design process, from initial scope definition to final drawing submission and material requisition. Explain how you ensure accuracy and efficiency.

• Problem/Solution/Result: Structure your project discussions using a clear problem-solution-result framework, detailing challenges encountered and how you overcame them.

• Code & Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss specific NFPA code requirements and technical design considerations for various project types.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You might be presented with a hypothetical design challenge or a complex project scenario and asked to outline your approach and key considerations.

• Process Improvement Exercise: Be prepared to analyze a given design process and suggest areas for improvement, efficiency gains, or technology adoption.

• Team Management Question: Anticipate questions about how you would handle underperforming team members, resolve conflicts, or motivate your design staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential design challenges indicates a practical, skills-based assessment. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just theoretical knowledge but also their ability to apply it in a real-world operational context and manage the associated processes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for drafting and creating construction plans. Proficiency is a firm requirement.

• HydraCAD / Autosprink: Highly desirable for advanced 3D modeling, BIM integration, and automated fabrication list generation. Experience with these tools significantly streamlines the design-to-fabrication process.

• Hydraulic Calculation Software: Software specific to performing pipe network calculations to ensure adequate water flow and pressure.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Reporting Tools: The company likely uses internal systems or spreadsheets for tracking project progress, design team productivity, and material usage.

• Project Management Software: Tools like Procore, MS Project, or similar platforms may be used for overall project scheduling and resource management, requiring the Design Manager to interface with them.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing a CRM, understanding how design inputs feed into sales and project management systems is important. Familiarity with how design data integrates with broader company systems can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD is a baseline. The preference for HydraCAD/Autosprink signifies a push towards modern, efficient design workflows that integrate seamlessly with fabrication and installation, a key aspect of operational efficiency in this industry.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: As a fire protection company, safety is paramount. This translates to rigorous adherence to codes and meticulous design practices to ensure public safety.

• Integrity & Reliability: Delivering on promises, providing accurate designs on time, and maintaining high ethical standards are crucial for building trust with clients and partners.

• Customer Focus: Understanding client needs and delivering solutions that meet their specific requirements and budget.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for streamlined processes that deliver high-quality, code-compliant designs without unnecessary delays or costs.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively across departments (Sales, Project Management, Field Installation) to ensure seamless project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role demands strong collaboration with Sales (for understanding project scope and client expectations) and Project Management (for scheduling, resource allocation, and execution).

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on design processes and team performance to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fostering an environment where designers can share best practices, technical insights, and solutions to complex design challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's culture will likely reflect the high-stakes nature of fire protection, emphasizing diligence, accuracy, and a strong sense of responsibility. Collaboration is key to bridging the gap between initial sales efforts and successful project completion.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Demands: Managing the workload of the design team while meeting tight deadlines from Sales and Project Management, often with limited resources.

• Evolving Codes & Technologies: Staying current with frequently updated NFPA codes and new design technologies requires continuous learning and adaptation.

• Technical Complexity: Addressing unique design challenges presented by complex building structures, specialized occupancies, or challenging site conditions.

• Team Motivation & Performance: Leading a team of technical professionals, ensuring consistent performance, and fostering a positive work environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to gain expertise in advanced tools like HydraCAD/Autosprink, BIM integration, or other specialized design software.

• NICET Certification Advancement: Support for achieving higher levels of NICET certification (Level 3 or 4), demonstrating advanced technical mastery.

• Management & Leadership Training: Development programs focused on enhancing leadership, project management, and operational efficiency skills.

• Industry Seminars & Conferences: Attending industry events to stay abreast of new trends, technologies, and regulatory changes in fire protection design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is tied to both deepening technical expertise and broadening managerial scope. Addressing challenges proactively through continuous learning and strategic team management will be crucial for success and advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing and prioritizing a design team's workload when multiple projects have competing deadlines." (Focus on workflow, delegation, and communication strategies.)

• "How do you ensure that your team consistently adheres to NFPA codes and best practices in their designs?" (Discuss quality control, review processes, and training.)

• "Walk me through a challenging sprinkler design project you managed. What were the key obstacles, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a specific case study highlighting your problem-solving and leadership.)

Company & Culture Questions:

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

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and quality within a design team?" (Connect your leadership style to the company's core values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio to clearly showcase leadership, process optimization, and quantifiable results. Use a problem-solution-result framework for each project.

• Focus on Process: Clearly articulate your design methodology, workflow management, and how you ensure efficiency and accuracy.

• Quantify Achievements: Present metrics demonstrating improvements in design time, accuracy, material efficiency, or project profitability.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: Use examples that show how you worked effectively with sales, project management, and field teams.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your designs, including code compliance and hydraulic calculations, with confidence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical competence but also strong leadership, process management, and cross-functional collaboration skills, as these are critical for a managerial role impacting operational efficiency.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sprinkler Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Utilize the provided link on Paycom to submit your resume and cover letter.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience in team leadership, project management, AutoCAD, hydraulic calculations, NFPA codes, and any relevant software like HydraCAD/Autosprink. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest design projects, focusing on those that demonstrate your management capabilities, process optimization efforts, and successful project outcomes. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co.'s services, history, and values to articulate your fit during interviews.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer technical, behavioral, and situational questions, particularly those related to team leadership, process management, and problem-solving in a design context. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

⚠️ 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.