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 / Fire Protection Design Management

Date Posted: August 24, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Managerial/Senior Design)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

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

• Coordinate design workload effectively with Sales and Project Management teams to meet project deadlines and client expectations.

• Provide expert guidance and support to the design team on code compliance (NFPA) and effective design strategies.

• Contribute directly to the design process by preparing fire sprinkler drawings and performing hydraulic calculations.

• Ensure the accurate generation of material stock lists and procurement requisitions for all projects upon approval.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for bridging the gap between sales, project execution, and the technical design aspects of fire sprinkler systems. The emphasis on managing a team, coordinating with other departments, and ensuring adherence to stringent codes like NFPA positions this as a key leadership and operational role within the engineering department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of sprinkler designers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.

• Workload & Schedule Management: Effectively manage project schedules for the design team, assigning tasks and ensuring timely completion of all deliverables.

• Cross-Functional Coordination: Liaise closely with Sales and Project Management teams to align design timelines with overall project phases and client requirements.

• Technical Design Support: Provide direct assistance and technical expertise to designers on complex code interpretations, design strategies, and system layouts.

• Design & Calculation Oversight: Review and approve fire sprinkler system drawings and hydraulic calculations for accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.

• Material Procurement Support: Oversee the preparation of detailed stock lists and requisition materials to ensure seamless project execution and prevent delays.

• Code Compliance Assurance: Ensure all designs strictly adhere to current NFPA codes and relevant local building regulations.

• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to optimize design workflows, implement best practices, and enhance the overall efficiency of the design department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of people management, project coordination, and technical expertise. The expectation to "assist with the design and layout of sprinkler systems as needed" suggests that while managing, the individual will remain hands-on with complex design challenges, requiring deep technical knowledge of fire protection systems.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• Alternatively, a minimum of 7+ years of progressive experience in sprinkler system design. Experience:

• Proven experience in leading and managing a team of design professionals.

• Demonstrable experience in overseeing the design lifecycle from concept to fabrication.

• Strong track record of successful project delivery within the fire protection industry. Required Skills:

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

• Sprinkler System Design Expertise: Comprehensive understanding of fire sprinkler system types, layouts, and installation principles.

• Hydraulic Piping Calculations: Ability to perform and/or meticulously review complex hydraulic calculations to ensure system effectiveness.

• NFPA Codes Knowledge: In-depth working knowledge of all relevant National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes pertaining to sprinkler systems.

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

• Project Management Fundamentals: Understanding of project scheduling, resource allocation, and coordination with other departments.

• Analytical & Mathematical Aptitude: Strong problem-solving skills with a solid grasp of mathematical principles relevant to engineering design.

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

Preferred Skills:

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

• NICET Certification: Level 3 or 4 certification strongly preferred; Level 2 minimum required.

• Construction Planning: Familiarity with construction processes and how design integrates with site execution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for NICET certification, particularly at Level 3 or 4, indicates a high level of technical expertise and industry recognition expected for this role. Proficiency with HydraCAD or Autosprink would significantly streamline the design process and align with modern industry practices, making candidates with this experience highly desirable.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Showcase: Examples of completed fire sprinkler system designs, demonstrating complexity, scope, and adherence to NFPA standards.

• Calculation Examples: Demonstrations of accurate hydraulic piping calculations, highlighting the methodology and results for various system types.

• Team Management Case Studies: Evidence of successful team leadership, including examples of workload management, problem-solving within a team, and project delivery oversight.

• System Integration Examples: Documentation showcasing how designs were integrated with other construction plans and project management workflows.

• Code Compliance Documentation: Examples illustrating how NFPA codes were applied and documented within design projects.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Documentation of established or proposed workflows for the sprinkler design process, from initial sales handoff to final drawing submission.

• System Implementation: Outlines of processes for implementing new design software or updating existing design methodologies.

• Performance Analysis: Methods used to measure and analyze the performance of the design team, including on-time delivery, accuracy, and client satisfaction.

• Collaboration Protocols: Established protocols for inter-departmental communication and collaboration, particularly with Sales and Project Management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to showcase a portfolio that not only displays technical design proficiency but also leadership capabilities. Demonstrating a structured approach to managing design processes, ensuring code compliance, and facilitating cross-functional collaboration will be key. The inclusion of HydraCAD/Autosprink in the portfolio would be a strong differentiator.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Sprinkler Design Manager role with 7+ years of experience and NICET Level 2+ certification in the Warrendale, PA area, the estimated salary range is $85,000 - $115,000 annually. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, NICET level, and proficiency with specialized software like HydraCAD/Autosprink. 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 voluntary 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 Savings: 401K retirement plan with a safe harbor match, offering both traditional and Roth contribution options.

• Work Environment: Business casual office setting.

• Team Culture: Supportive, team-oriented culture that prioritizes collaboration and professional growth.

• Referral Program: Employee referral program offering bonus opportunities for successful candidate referrals.

Working Hours:

• Standard business hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for occasional overtime depending on project demands. The role is primarily office-based with up to 25% travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from national averages for similar roles, adjusted for the Pittsburgh metropolitan area's cost of living and the specific requirements of the position (management, technical expertise, NICET certification). The benefits package is comprehensive, with a notable inclusion of a 401K safe harbor match, which is a significant draw for long-term financial planning.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fire Protection Systems & Services. Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co. operates within a critical sector focused on life safety, requiring a high degree of precision, reliability, and adherence to strict safety regulations.

Company Size: The provided data does not specify company size, but the structure suggests a well-established organization with dedicated departments for Sales, Project Management, and Engineering/Design.

Founded: Information not provided, but the company's operational scope implies established expertise in fire suppression systems.

Team Structure:

• Engineering/Design Department: This role leads the Sprinkler Design team, which likely comprises multiple sprinkler designers.

• Reporting Structure: The Sprinkler Design Manager reports to a higher-level engineering or operations executive, coordinating closely with the heads of Sales and Project Management.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expect robust collaboration with Sales (for project requirements and scope), Project Management (for scheduling and resource allocation), and potentially field installation teams (for design clarity and site-specific adjustments).

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasizes accurate hydraulic calculations and adherence to NFPA codes as the foundation for all designs.

• Process Optimization: Focus on refining design workflows to improve efficiency, accuracy, and timely delivery.

• Client-Centric Approach: Designs are developed to meet specific client needs, project requirements, and regulatory standards, ensuring effective fire suppression.

Company Website: fire-fighter.com (inferred from domain_derived: firefighter-pgh.com)

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Direct Applicants Only - No Third-Party Recruiters" note and the Equal Opportunity Employer statement suggest a company that values direct engagement with candidates and is committed to diversity and inclusion. The business casual environment and team-oriented culture point towards a professional yet approachable workplace.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a management-level position within the engineering/design function. It requires a blend of technical expertise, project coordination skills, and leadership capabilities. The role is pivotal in ensuring the efficiency and accuracy of the company's core design services.

Reporting Structure: The Sprinkler Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Engineering or VP of Operations. They will directly manage a team of designers and collaborate extensively with Sales Managers and Project Managers.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the company's revenue and profitability by ensuring that designs are accurate, cost-effective, and completed on schedule, which minimizes project delays and rework. Efficient design processes reduce material waste and labor costs associated with installation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced fire protection technologies, specific system types (e.g., high-pressure systems, foam suppression), or specialized software.

• Senior Management: Advance into roles such as Director of Engineering, VP of Operations, or a senior project director, overseeing broader operational functions.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead initiatives to implement new design technologies, automation tools, or company-wide process enhancements.

• Business Development Support: Contribute technical expertise to sales efforts, proposal development, and client consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within operations and engineering management. The emphasis on leadership and cross-functional collaboration prepares individuals for broader operational responsibilities. Growth opportunities are tied to both technical depth and managerial scope.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based in an office environment located in Warrendale, PA. This setting is described as "business casual."

Office Location(s): 791 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086. This location is noted as the primary base for the design team.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The culture is described as supportive and team-oriented, encouraging collaboration. Expect interaction with fellow designers, sales representatives, and project managers.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard office equipment, computers equipped with necessary design software (AutoCAD, potentially HydraCAD/Autosprink), and communication tools.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, project reviews, and opportunities for direct mentorship and knowledge sharing with team members and management.

Work Schedule:

• Primarily standard business hours, Monday through Friday, totaling approximately 40 hours per week.

• The role involves up to 25% travel, which may include visiting customer facilities or field sites. This requires flexibility to accommodate site-specific needs, which could involve varying environmental conditions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While primarily an office-based role, the requirement for up to 25% travel indicates that candidates must be comfortable working in diverse environments, including customer sites that may have "clean/unclean conditions, hot/cold conditions." This necessitates adaptability and a preparedness for varied work settings beyond the typical office.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application, focusing on your experience in sprinkler design, team leadership, and qualifications (degree, NICET, software proficiency).

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve discussing your experience with AutoCAD, hydraulic calculations, NFPA codes, and any experience with HydraCAD/Autosprink. You may be asked to walk through specific design challenges you've overcome.

• Managerial/Team Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team management experience, and ability to coordinate with sales and project management. Behavioral questions will likely be used to gauge your approach to problem-solving and team motivation.

• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio. Be prepared to discuss your role, the design process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved. Focus on demonstrating impact and efficiency.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership to discuss your strategic vision for the design department and cultural fit within Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 diverse projects that best showcase your design skills, leadership capabilities, and problem-solving abilities. Include examples that highlight your experience with NFPA codes and hydraulic calculations.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs and management. This could include on-time delivery rates, cost savings, reduction in errors, or efficiency improvements achieved through process optimization.

• Detail Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, especially if presenting team projects. Differentiate between your direct work and the work managed by you.

• Showcase Process: Explain your design methodology, how you ensure code compliance, and your approach to managing team workflows.

• Software Proficiency: If you have experience with HydraCAD or Autosprink, highlight specific projects where these tools were used and the benefits they provided.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical design challenges related to complex building layouts, unusual water supply conditions, or specific occupancy types.

• Code Interpretation: Anticipate questions requiring interpretation of specific NFPA code sections.

• Management Scenarios: Prepare for questions about managing underperforming team members, resolving conflicts between departments, or prioritizing competing project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review suggests that Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co. values tangible evidence of a candidate's capabilities. Prepare to articulate not just what you've done, but how you did it, and the measurable results achieved. Demonstrating an understanding of operational efficiency within the design process will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for drafting 2D and 3D sprinkler system layouts and construction plans. Proficiency is a core requirement.

• HydraCAD/Autosprink: Highly preferred specialized software for fire sprinkler system design. Experience with these tools can significantly enhance efficiency and accuracy in hydraulic calculations and drawing generation.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard tools for documentation, communication, and basic data analysis (Word, Excel, Outlook). Excel will be critical for data manipulation related to calculations and stock lists.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Hydraulic Calculation Software: Integrated within HydraCAD/Autosprink or standalone programs used to perform and verify flow and pressure calculations.

• Project Management Software: While not explicitly mentioned, the coordination with the Project Management team implies the use of some project tracking system. Candidates may be expected to interface with or even utilize elements of this system.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System (Sales/Project Management): While not directly used by the design manager, understanding how design data feeds into CRM for sales and project tracking is beneficial.

• Potential for Workflow Automation: Opportunities may exist to automate certain aspects of drawing generation, material listing, or reporting using scripts or advanced features within design software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of HydraCAD and Autosprink as "a Plus" suggests that candidates with experience in these specific fire protection design software packages will have a competitive advantage. Demonstrating proficiency in these tools, beyond basic AutoCAD, will signal a higher level of readiness and efficiency for the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in the fire protection industry, driving meticulous attention to detail in all designs to ensure system effectiveness.

• Integrity & Reliability: Upholding high ethical standards and ensuring the dependable performance of designed systems.

• Customer Focus: Commitment to meeting client needs and delivering solutions that provide robust fire safety.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive environment where individuals work together to achieve common goals and support each other's success.

• Continuous Improvement: Encouraging innovation and proactive efforts to enhance processes, skills, and system designs.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Emphasis on seamless communication and workflow integration between Design, Sales, and Project Management teams to ensure project success.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages designers to share best practices, code interpretations, and technical insights.

• Feedback Loop: Openness to constructive feedback on designs and processes, aiming for collective improvement.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A collaborative approach to tackling technical challenges and finding effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's commitment to a "Supportive, team-oriented culture that values collaboration and growth" is a key indicator. Candidates should highlight their ability to work effectively within a team, communicate clearly, and contribute positively to a collaborative problem-solving environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Effectively managing the competing demands of various projects, ensuring all deadlines are met without compromising quality.

• Staying Current with Codes: Keeping abreast of evolving NFPA codes and industry standards, which are frequently updated and can be complex.

• Team Motivation & Development: Leading a team of designers, potentially with varying levels of experience, and fostering their professional growth.

• Interdepartmental Coordination: Navigating potential communication gaps or priority conflicts between the design team and sales or project management.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing complex design issues that may arise from unique site conditions or specific client requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced NICET Certification: Pursuing Level 3 or 4 NICET certification to deepen technical expertise and career standing.

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

• Project Management Skills: Developing stronger project management capabilities to enhance coordination and oversight.

• Leadership Development: Participating in management training programs to refine leadership, team-building, and strategic planning skills.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending relevant industry events to network, learn about new trends, and stay updated on best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a management role in a technical field. The growth opportunities are well-defined, offering clear paths for both technical specialization and broader operational leadership. Candidates should consider which growth areas align with their career aspirations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a team of designers and ensuring project deadlines are met." (Focus on your leadership style, delegation, and prioritization methods.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with NFPA codes in complex design scenarios?" (Highlight your understanding of code interpretation, review processes, and problem-solving for code-related issues.)

• "Walk us through a challenging sprinkler design project you managed. What were the obstacles, and how did you overcome them?" (Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Quantify outcomes where possible.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co. and our role in the fire protection industry?" (Research their website, recent projects, and company mission.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within your design team and with other departments like Sales and Project Management?" (Provide specific examples of communication strategies and team-building initiatives.)

• "How do you measure the success and efficiency of a design department?" (Discuss KPIs related to on-time delivery, accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and team performance.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the client's needs, the scope of work, your specific role and responsibilities, the design process followed, challenges encountered, solutions implemented, and the final outcome or impact.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Explicitly mention your proficiency with AutoCAD, hydraulic calculations, and any experience with HydraCAD/Autosprink.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Showcase how you guided your team, managed workloads, and resolved any internal or external conflicts.

• Focus on Results: Emphasize quantifiable achievements such as cost savings, efficiency gains, successful project completion, or positive client feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've used design software to improve efficiency and accuracy. Be ready to articulate your understanding of the business impact of effective sprinkler design, linking it to client satisfaction, project profitability, and overall company success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sprinkler Design Manager position:

• Submit your application directly through the provided Paycom link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords from the job description, such as "Sprinkler Design," "AutoCAD," "NFPA codes," "Hydraulic Calculations," "Team Leadership," and "NICET certification." Quantify your achievements with numbers wherever possible (e.g., managed a team of X designers, oversaw projects valued at $Y).

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select relevant projects that showcase your technical design skills, leadership experience, and problem-solving abilities. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail during an interview.

• Research the Company: Visit the Fire Fighter Sales & Service Co. website to understand their mission, values, and market position. Familiarize yourself with their services and any recent news or projects.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your skills in leadership, technical design, code compliance, and cross-functional collaboration.

⚠️ 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.