Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Fire Alarm & Low Voltage Designer with a strong background in fire alarm system design and proficiency in AutoCAD. This role is responsible for designing, coordinating, and documenting fire alarm and low voltage systems for a variety of commercial, industrial, and institutional projects. Candidates with extensive fire alarm design experience will be prioritized, while low voltage design experience is considered a strong advantage.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop fire alarm and low voltage systems for various building types.
- Prepare fire alarm system layouts including:
- Standard notification systems
- Voice evacuation systems
- Class A and Class B SLC circuits
- Two-Way Communication Systems for Areas of Refuge
- Design low voltage systems including:
- Access Control
- CCTV
- Vehicular Gate Control
- Wi-Fi Networks
- Audio/Visual Systems
- Security Systems
- Voice, Data, and Video Infrastructure
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal codes, standards, and regulations.
- Coordinate designs with architects, engineers, consultants, and contractors.
- Develop detailed drawings, plans, and specifications using AutoCAD.
- Provide technical support during installation, commissioning, and project execution.
- Review and update system designs to maintain compliance and operational effectiveness.
Required Experience & Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience in Fire Alarm Design; low voltage design experience is a plus.
- Strong understanding of:
- NFPA Codes and Standards
- International Building Code (IBC)
- International Fire Code (IFC)
- Local and municipal code amendments
- Knowledge of fire alarm manufacturers, devices, and system applications.
- Ability to perform:
- Battery load calculations
- Voltage drop calculations
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and coordination abilities.
AutoCAD Proficiency Requirements
- Creating and modifying technical drawings and blueprints.
- Working with external references (Xrefs), including nested references.
- Creating and managing dynamic blocks and block attributes.
- Utilizing annotative objects and scaling features.
- Layer management and drawing organization.
- Creating layouts, viewports, and sheet sets using Paper Space.
- Integrating fire alarm and low voltage systems with architectural and engineering plans.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams using AutoCAD interoperability features.
Preferred Certifications
- AutoCAD Certified User (ACU)
- AutoCAD Certified Professional (ACP)
- NICET Certification in Fire Alarm Systems
- Continuing education or specialized training in fire safety systems and code compliance
The Successful Candidate Will
- Identify and resolve design conflicts proactively.
- Create cost-effective, code-compliant designs.
- Adapt designs to unique project requirements and building constraints.
- Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies.
- Support project teams throughout design, installation, inspection, and commissioning phases.
Professional Collaboration
- Internal sales, design, and installation teams.
- Architects and consulting engineers.
- Contractors and field installation personnel.
- Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs).
- Clients and project stakeholders.
The ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and professionally is essential.
Benefits Include
- 401(k) Plan
- 401(k) Matching
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Retirement Plan