Project Manager - Fire Protection

JV Recruitment Pty Ltd; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 150,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

JV Recruitment Pty Ltd is seeking an experienced Project Manager – Fire Protection to lead commercial wet fire projects in Melbourne and surrounds. You will oversee site teams, coordinate drawings, manage budgets and ensure on‑time, safe delivery in line with AS fire protection standards and NCC requirements.

The role requires hands‑on site leadership across multiple sites, close liaison with builders and consultants, and a strong focus on productivity and quality.

Qualifications

• Experience managing commercial wet fire protection projects.
• Strong knowledge of fire sprinkler systems and drawings.
• Proven budget, labour, and variation management.
• Excellent stakeholder relationships with Tier 1/2 builders.
• Familiarity with Australian Standards and WHS requirements.
• Trade or Construction Management qualifications or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Manage commercial wet fire projects from handover through construction, commissioning and final completion.
• Maintain strong onsite presence supervising site teams, charge hands, sprinkler fitters and apprentices.
• Conduct regular site inspections to assess installation quality and rectify defects early.
• Oversee budget monitoring, variations, cost‑to‑complete forecasts and progress claims.
• Develop and track delivery plans, labour forecasts, procurement schedules and milestones.
• Strictly manage high‑risk activities and ensure WHS compliance with AS/NZS standards.
• Coordinate material procurement and deliveries to minimise downtime.
• Act as liaison with Tier 1/2 builders, consultants and trade partners to resolve site issues.
• Oversee testing, commissioning and handover to the client.

Skills

Project management

Site leadership

Budget management

WHS compliance

Stakeholder mgmt

AS/NZS & NCC knowledge

Education

Construction/CM degree

Job description

Job Description

Project Manager – Fire Protection

Salary: $150,000 - $170,000 (Depending on Experience)

Location: North-West Suburbs Office & Melbourne Project Sites

Contract: Full-time

About the Role

We are seeking a driven and experienced Project Manager to lead the successful delivery of commercial wet fire projects across Melbourne. Reporting directly to the Director and overseeing site team leaders, sprinkler fitters, and project coordinators, you will take ownership of project delivery safely, efficiently, on programme, and within budget.

This role requires an active, hands‑on presence across project sites to supervise installation teams, drive labour productivity, review workmanship, and ensure strict compliance with Australian Standards. Acting as the primary liaison between Fireline, builders, and site stakeholders, you will build strong working relationships while actively protecting the company's commercial and operational interests.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage commercial wet fire projects from initial handover through to construction, commissioning, and final completion.
• Maintain a strong, regular onsite presence, supervising site teams, charge hands, sprinkler fitters, and apprentices to ensure high quality and productivity.
• Conduct regular site inspections to assess installation quality, monitor pipework/equipment, and rectify defects early.
• Oversee commercial and financial management, including budget monitoring, variation pricing/submission, cost‑to‑complete forecasts, and progress claims.
• Develop and track project delivery plans, labour forecasts, procurement schedules, and key construction milestones.
• Strictly manage high‑risk activities, workplace health & safety (WHS), safe work practices, and compliance with AS fire protection standards and NCC requirements.
• Coordinate material procurement, long‑lead items, and equipment deliveries to eliminate downtime and project delays.
• Act as the primary point of contact for Tier 1 and Tier 2 builders, consultants, and trade partners to build collaborative relationships and resolve site issues.
• Oversee testing, commissioning, as‑built documentation, and seamless final handover to the client.

Required Experience & Skills

• Demonstrated experience managing commercial construction projects, preferably within wet fire protection services (high‑rise residential, commercial, or industrial developments).
• Sound technical knowledge of fire sprinkler and associated wet fire system installations, including drawing interpretation and services coordination.
• Strong track record in site leadership, direct trade supervision, and managing directly employed trade teams.
• Proven commercial acumen with hands‑on experience in budget management, labour control, variations, and progress claims.
• Excellent ability to build and maintain strong relationships with Tier 1, Tier 2 builders, site managers, and consultants.
• Solid understanding of relevant Australian Standards, NCC requirements, and WHS compliance.
• Relevant trade qualifications, Construction Management qualifications, or equivalent industry experience.
• Valid driver’s licence and a proactive, accountable management style.

We are dedicated to offering career advancement to those who prove they want it. In return, we ask that you show commitment, honesty, and integrity while working on‑site for JV.