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: June 24, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage a team of sprinkler designers to ensure efficient workflow and timely project delivery.

• Oversee the preparation of field install drawings, fabrication lists, and construction plans.

• Collaborate closely with Sales and Project Management teams to align design schedules with project timelines.

• Provide technical expertise and guidance on fire sprinkler system design strategies and code compliance.

• Drive process improvements within the design department to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Sprinkler Design Manager," the core responsibilities and required skills (collaboration with Sales/Project Management, managing schedules, preparing fabrication lists and stock listings) indicate a strong operational component. This role bridges technical design with project execution and team management, aligning with GTM Operations and Project Operations functions, particularly in a specialized engineering sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Management:

  • Lead, mentor, and manage a team of sprinkler designers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
  • Assign projects and manage workloads for the design team to ensure optimal resource allocation and adherence to deadlines.
  • Conduct regular performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback to team members to support their professional development.

• Design Oversight & Quality Assurance:

  • Oversee the preparation of accurate and effective fire sprinkler system drawings, hydraulic calculations, and fabrication lists.
  • Ensure all designs comply with relevant NFPA codes, local regulations, and project specifications.
  • Review and approve design deliverables before submission to clients or project managers.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Coordination:

  • Liaise with the Sales Team to understand project requirements, scope, and client needs from initial bid stages.
  • Coordinate closely with the Project Management Team to align design timelines with overall project schedules and milestones.
  • Facilitate communication between the design team and other departments (e.g., fabrication, installation) to resolve issues and ensure smooth project execution.

• Technical Expertise & Support:

  • Provide expert guidance and assistance to the design team on complex design challenges, code interpretation, and design strategies.
  • Assist in preparing fire sprinkler drawings and performing hydraulic calculations when required.
  • Stay updated on the latest industry trends, technologies, and code changes relevant to fire protection systems.

• Process Optimization & Efficiency:

  • Identify opportunities for process improvements within the design department to enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and improve turnaround times.
  • Implement and refine design workflows, standards, and best practices.
  • Contribute to the development and maintenance of design templates and libraries.

• Material & Procurement Support:

  • Upon completion of drawings and receipt of approvals, prepare accurate stock listings of all materials required for the project.

  • Requisition materials based on approved stock listings to support fabrication and installation efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on managing schedules, coordinating with Sales and Project Management, preparing fabrication lists, and requisitioning materials points to a strong operational focus on the "order-to-cash" or "quote-to-install" process within the fire protection system lifecycle. This role requires not just technical design proficiency but also project execution and resource management skills, common in operations management roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection Design, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, OR

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

• Proven experience in managing design teams and overseeing project workflows.

• Demonstrated success in optimizing design processes and improving team efficiency.

• Experience in a fast-paced, project-driven environment, preferably within the fire protection or construction industry. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in AutoCAD: Advanced skills in using AutoCAD for creating detailed fire sprinkler system drawings and plans.

• Fire Sprinkler System Design: In-depth knowledge of designing various types of fire sprinkler systems.

• Hydraulic Piping Calculations: Strong understanding and practical application of hydraulic calculations for sprinkler systems.

• NFPA Codes: Comprehensive knowledge of all relevant NFPA codes and standards pertaining to fire protection systems.

• Team Leadership: Ability to effectively lead, motivate, and manage a team of technical professionals.

• Project Coordination: Skill in coordinating design activities with Sales, Project Management, and other relevant stakeholders.

• Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational abilities to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities effectively.

• Analytical & Mathematical Aptitude: Strong capability for problem-solving, data analysis, and performing complex calculations.

• Self-Starter Mentality: Proactive and driven, capable of operating independently and taking initiative within a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• HydraCAD Experience: Working knowledge or proficiency with HydraCAD software.

• Autosprink Experience: Working knowledge or proficiency with Autosprink software.

• NICET Certification: Minimum NICET Level 2 certification in sprinkler design; Level 3 or 4 certification is highly preferred.

• Construction Management Fundamentals: Basic understanding of construction project phases and management principles.

• Material Management: Experience with material requisitioning and stock listing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific design software (AutoCAD, HydraCAD, Autosprink) and certifications (NICET) is critical for operations roles in specialized engineering sectors. The requirement for leadership, coordination, and process optimization skills further aligns this role with operational management functions, focusing on the efficiency and effectiveness of the design department as a key GTM support function.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase a range of fire sprinkler system design projects, detailing the scope, challenges, and solutions implemented. Highlight your role and contributions.

• Process Improvement Case Studies: Provide examples of how you have identified and implemented process improvements within a design team, detailing the methodology, changes made, and measurable outcomes (e.g., reduced turnaround time, improved accuracy).

• System Implementation Examples: If applicable, include examples demonstrating your involvement in the implementation phases of design projects, showcasing coordination with fabrication or installation teams.

• Metrics & Reporting Samples: Present samples of reports or dashboards you have used or created to track design team performance, project status, or key operational metrics.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in documenting and optimizing design workflows, from initial client request to final drawing submission. This includes mapping current processes and proposing efficient future states.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase any experience in implementing new design tools, software, or automation techniques to streamline the design process.

• Measurement & Analysis: Provide examples of how you measure the effectiveness of design processes and team performance, including the analysis of key performance indicators (KPIs) and the use of data to drive decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-centric design management role, a portfolio should emphasize not just technical design output but also the candidate's ability to manage processes, lead teams, and drive operational efficiency. Case studies focusing on workflow optimization, team performance management, and successful cross-functional collaboration are crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Sprinkler Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the Warrendale, PA area, the estimated annual salary range is $85,000 - $115,000. This estimate considers the technical expertise required, leadership responsibilities, and the cost of living in the region.

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 for financial security.
  • Access to optional supplemental benefits for enhanced coverage.

• Paid Time Off & Holidays:

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual starting from the first year of employment.
  • 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 environment.
  • Supportive, team-oriented culture that values collaboration and professional growth.

• Employee Growth & Rewards:

  • Employee Referral program with bonus opportunities. Working Hours:

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

• Office environment with potential for travel up to 25% to customer facilities or field sites.

• Flexible work hours may be available, but primary focus is on ensuring design department operations meet project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research of similar management roles in engineering and construction in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, factoring in the specified NICET certifications and software proficiencies as indicators of specialized skill. The benefits package is comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on health, financial security, and retirement planning, which are key attractors for experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fire Protection Systems & Services. Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co. operates within a critical sector that demands precision, reliability, and adherence to stringent safety standards. The company likely serves commercial, industrial, and potentially residential clients requiring sophisticated fire suppression solutions.

Company Size: The provided data does not specify company size directly, but the mention of a "Sales Team," "Project Management Team," and a "Design Department" suggests a well-structured organization with multiple functional areas. It is likely a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME) or a division of a larger entity, capable of handling significant projects.

Founded: The founding date is not provided. However, the nature of the business implies a company with established expertise and a track record in the fire protection industry.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: Directly managed by the Sprinkler Design Manager, this team is responsible for all technical aspects of sprinkler system design, including CAD drawings, hydraulic calculations, and material specifications.

• Sales Team: Responsible for client acquisition, bidding, and defining project scope. Will collaborate with the Design Manager on project requirements and timelines.

• Project Management Team: Oversees the execution of projects from start to finish, coordinating with design, fabrication, installation, and clients. Will work closely with the Design Manager to ensure design deliverables align with project milestones.

• Cross-Functional Integration: The Design Manager will interface with other departments such as fabrication, installation, and potentially service/maintenance teams to ensure seamless project handoffs and operational continuity.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on accurate hydraulic calculations and adherence to NFPA codes to ensure system effectiveness and compliance.

• Process-Oriented Workflow: Structured approach to design, from initial concept to final drawings and material lists, managed through defined project phases.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: Encouragement of team members to assist each other and contribute to solutions for complex design challenges and code compliance issues.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that likely values feedback and seeks opportunities to refine processes for greater efficiency and accuracy.

Company Website: firefighter-pgh.com (Derived from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding that Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co. is in a regulated and safety-critical industry (fire protection) is key. This implies a culture that highly values accuracy, compliance, and meticulousness. The operational aspects of this role are directly tied to ensuring client safety and regulatory adherence, making efficiency and quality paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level management position within the operations and engineering functions. It requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and operational process management. The Sprinkler Design Manager is a key contributor to the company's ability to deliver projects efficiently and effectively.

Reporting Structure: The Sprinkler Design Manager likely reports to a Director of Engineering, Operations Manager, or a senior executive overseeing project delivery. They will have direct reports within the design department.

Operations Impact: The design department's efficiency and accuracy directly impact project timelines, costs, and profitability. Effective management by the Sprinkler Design Manager ensures that projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to the required technical and safety standards. This role is critical for maintaining the company's reputation for quality and reliability.

Growth Opportunities:

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

• Specialized Expertise: Deepening expertise in fire protection engineering, potentially leading to roles in R&D, advanced system design, or consulting.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Transitioning into a dedicated process improvement or operational excellence role, focusing on optimizing workflows across multiple departments.

• Business Development/Sales Support: Leveraging technical knowledge to support sales efforts, estimate complex projects, or manage key client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Sprinkler Design Manager in an operations context often involves moving into broader project management, operations leadership, or even business unit management. The role provides a solid foundation in managing technical teams, project lifecycles, and operational efficiency, which are transferable skills across many industries.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based in an office environment at the Warrendale, PA location. This setting is expected to be professional, equipped with the necessary design software and resources.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at 791 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close collaboration with internal teams (Sales, Project Management, other designers), suggesting an open or semi-open office layout that facilitates communication.

• Technology & Tools: Access to powerful workstations equipped with AutoCAD, potentially HydraCAD/Autosprink, hydraulic calculation software, and other relevant design and project management tools.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with direct reports, project managers, and sales representatives to discuss project status, technical challenges, and coordination needs.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule (approximately 40 hours per week) is expected. While the core hours are likely fixed, the nature of project deadlines may require occasional flexibility to ensure all design deliverables are met. Travel up to 25% to customer facilities or field sites is anticipated, which may require adjustments to the daily schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "office environment" description is standard. The key operational aspect here is the balance between office-based design work and necessary travel to client sites or field locations. This blend requires strong time management and adaptability from the operations manager.

📄 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.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: This stage will likely involve a deep dive into your design portfolio. You may be asked to present specific projects, discuss your design process, and explain how you managed your team and projects. Expect questions on your approach to AutoCAD, hydraulic calculations, and code compliance.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Interviews with hiring managers and potentially key stakeholders (e.g., Sales Manager, Project Management Lead). Questions will focus on your leadership style, problem-solving abilities, conflict resolution skills, and how you handle pressure and manage teams.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive, focusing on strategic fit, long-term vision for the department, and overall cultural alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your design capabilities, leadership, and operational contributions.

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the design challenge, your approach to managing the design process, the specific tools and codes used, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, successful project completion).

• Emphasize Leadership: Detail your role in leading the design team, how you assigned tasks, mentored junior designers, and facilitated collaboration.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Be prepared to discuss any design or operational challenges you encountered and how you successfully resolved them.

• Demonstrate Code Knowledge: Be ready to discuss your understanding and application of NFPA codes and other relevant standards.

• Prepare for Software Demos (if applicable): If you are proficient in HydraCAD or Autosprink, be prepared to walk through specific features or design elements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You might be given a hypothetical design scenario and asked to outline your approach, including key considerations, calculation methods, and potential challenges.

• Team Management Scenario: Expect questions about how you would handle common team management issues, such as performance issues, inter-team conflicts, or motivating your staff during a high-pressure period.

• Process Improvement Exercise: You might be asked to identify potential inefficiencies in a given design process and propose solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review for this role is critical. It needs to demonstrate not just technical design skill but also managerial competence in process execution, team leadership, and operational efficiency. Candidates should prepare to speak extensively about their project management and team leadership experiences within the context of design delivery.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for creating detailed fire sprinkler system drawings and plans. Proficiency in advanced features, layers, blocks, and plotting is expected.

• Hydraulic Calculation Software: Tools used to perform complex hydraulic calculations to ensure system effectiveness and compliance with NFPA standards.

• Project Management Software: Potentially used for task assignment, schedule tracking, and team coordination (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, or company-specific solutions).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software (e.g., Microsoft Excel): Crucial for data analysis, creating stock listings, tracking project metrics, and generating reports. Advanced functions like VLOOKUP, pivot tables, and charting will be beneficial.

• Reporting Tools: Potentially internal reporting systems or custom dashboards for monitoring design department performance, project progress, and key operational KPIs.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot): While not directly used for design, understanding how design requirements feed into CRM for sales and project tracking is valuable.

• Potential for Design Automation Tools: Experience with or openness to using tools that automate repetitive design tasks or generate standard components.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD is a must. Experience with specialized fire protection design software like HydraCAD or Autosprink is a significant advantage. The ability to leverage Excel for data analysis and reporting is also key for operational management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accuracy & Precision: A fundamental value in the fire protection industry, ensuring designs are correct and safe.

• Reliability & Dependability: Delivering on commitments to clients and internal teams is crucial for project success.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving to optimize processes and workflows to deliver high-quality designs in a timely manner.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together to achieve common goals.

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to learning, adapting, and refining processes to enhance performance.

• Safety & Compliance: Upholding the highest standards of safety and adherence to all relevant codes and regulations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Active engagement with Sales and Project Management to ensure design efforts are aligned with business objectives and project timelines.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear and direct communication channels within the design team and with other departments to quickly address challenges and share information.

• Proactive Support: Providing timely technical support and guidance to the design team, as well as collaborating with other departments to resolve issues that may arise during project execution.

• Feedback Culture: Creating an environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and used for continuous improvement of both individual performance and team processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely emphasizes precision, safety, and client satisfaction, all underpinned by efficient operational execution. A candidate who values these principles and can foster them within their team will be successful.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Workload & Deadlines: Managing the competing demands of multiple projects and ensuring timely delivery without compromising quality.

• Staying Current with Codes & Technology: Keeping abreast of evolving NFPA codes, industry standards, and advancements in design software.

• Managing Diverse Team Needs: Effectively leading and motivating a team with varying skill levels and experience, while addressing individual development needs.

• Resolving Complex Design Issues: Tackling intricate technical challenges that require creative problem-solving and deep code knowledge.

• Interdepartmental Coordination: Navigating potential communication gaps or conflicts between design, sales, and project management to ensure seamless workflow.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Certifications: Pursuing higher-level NICET certifications (Level 3 or 4) or specialized industry training.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participating in management and leadership training to enhance team management and strategic planning skills.

• New Software Adoption: Gaining proficiency in emerging design or project management technologies.

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

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leadership or to mentor junior designers, fostering skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity to impact operational efficiency in a critical safety sector. The challenges are typical of a management position in a project-driven environment, requiring strong organizational and leadership skills. The growth opportunities are well-defined for individuals looking to advance in engineering management or operations leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Strategy: "How would you approach optimizing the design workflow for a team of five designers to reduce project turnaround time by 15% within the next six months?" (Focus on process mapping, identifying bottlenecks, implementing new tools/techniques, and measurement.)

• Team Leadership: "Describe a time you had to manage a underperforming team member. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" (Assess your approach to performance management, coaching, and accountability.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a critical project deadline is approaching, but a key designer is unexpectedly out sick, and there's a complex code interpretation issue. How would you manage this situation?" (Evaluate your crisis management, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co. and the fire protection industry?" (Show you've done your research and understand the business context.)

• "How do you foster a culture of accuracy and safety within a design team?" (Align with industry values.)

• "Describe your experience working with sales and project management teams. What is your approach to ensuring effective collaboration?" (Highlight your cross-functional operational skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Clearly define the problem, your role, the actions you took (especially regarding process and team management), and the positive outcomes.

• Quantify Your Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate results. Instead of saying "improved efficiency," say "reduced design time by 10% by implementing standardized templates."

• Focus on Leadership & Process: While technical designs are important, emphasize your management of the design process, your leadership of the team, and how you ensured quality and timeliness.

• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Prepare to answer detailed questions about specific design challenges, code applications, and software usage.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical design competence but also strong operational management skills: leadership, process optimization, cross-functional collaboration, and problem-solving within a project delivery framework.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sprinkler Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Paycom.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience in team leadership, project coordination, process optimization, and proficiency with AutoCAD and relevant fire protection design software. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest design projects, focusing on demonstrating leadership, process management, and quantifiable results. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail.

• Research the Company: Understand Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co.'s services, projects, and reputation in the industry. Familiarize yourself with their website and any recent news.

• Practice Interview Answers: Prepare for behavioral, situational, and technical questions, focusing on your management style, problem-solving approach, and operational contributions.

⚠️ 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.

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