Systems Designer - Smoke Control & Fire Detection Systems

Fire Design Solutions; Dartford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fire safety solutions provider in Dartford is seeking a Systems Designer to develop design solutions from concept through to installation support. Candidates should have experience in fire safety systems and a technical background. This role offers competitive salary and opportunities for career development in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Bonus scheme linked to company performance

Private healthcare

Life insurance and income protection

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in fire safety systems and smoke ventilation.
• Ability to produce technical documentation, including design specs.
• Working knowledge of HVAC and electrical/building services.

Responsibilities

• Develop system designs based on fire strategies and client specifications.
• Produce technical documentation, including design specs.
• Support project teams during installation and commissioning.

Skills

Technical report/documentation writing

Clear, concise technical communication (written and verbal)

Strong time management and self-organisation

Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)

Education

GCSEs in English, Maths & Science (Grade C/4 or above)

Further education in an Engineering subject (A Levels, NVQ Level 3, BTEC, HND/HNC, or degree)

Tools

AutoCAD (2D design experience)

ACC (Autodesk Construction Cloud)

Job description

FDS Contracting is a specialist provider of smoke control and fire detection systems, delivering fully integrated fire safety solutions for the UK construction industry. We support residential and commercial developments through every stage of fire system design and delivery.

We’re looking for a Systems Designer to join our expanding technical team. You’ll play a key role in developing design solutions from concept through to installation support and final handover. If you’re a detail-driven designer with experience in fire safety systems, this is your opportunity to help shape lifesaving infrastructure.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Develop system designs based on fire strategies and client specifications
• Produce technical documentation, including design specs and supporting material
• Perform system calculations to validate designs
• Translate designs into 2D CAD drawings
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant codes and industry standards
• Maintain accurate project design schedules and documentation
• Respond to client design queries professionally and promptly
• Attend internal handovers and client design meetings
• Support project teams during installation, commissioning, and client handover
• Assist with the creation of O&M (Operation & Maintenance) manuals

What You’ll Need

Technical Knowledge:

• Mechanical & natural smoke ventilation systems
• Car park smoke clearance systems
• Fire alarm and detection systems
• HVAC and electrical/building services
• Control systems and building management systems (BMS)
• AutoCAD (2D design experience required)

Skills & Competencies:

• Clear, concise technical communication (written and verbal)
• Technical report/documentation writing
• Working knowledge of ACC (Autodesk Construction Cloud)
• Strong time management and self-organisation
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Comfortable in a Windows 10/11 environment

Qualifications (Preferred):

• GCSEs in English, Maths & Science (Grade C/4 or above, or equivalent)
• Further education such as A Levels, NVQ Level 3, BTEC, HND/HNC, or degree (or equivalent experience) in an Engineering subject
• Engineering apprenticeship

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (negotiable depending on experience)
• Bonus scheme linked to company performance, awarded at Director discretion
• Private healthcare on successful completion of probation
• Life insurance and income protection (Long term sickness benefit)
• Career development opportunities
• Collaborative, team-first working environment
• Immediate start available (subject to notice period)

Why Join Us?

• This isn’t just another Systems Designer role. We work on some of the most exciting developments in London and beyond.