Fire Alarm Designer- Houston

Gilder Search Group; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Advantage Interests Inc. in Houston seeks a Fire Alarm Designer to design, document, and support fire alarm systems per codes and customer specs. You will prepare drawings, calculations, material lists, and project documentation for ongoing projects.

The ideal candidate has NFPA 72 knowledge, AutoCAD proficiency, NICET II certification or ability to obtain, and strong coordinating skills with field teams and AHJ. This role is based on site in Houston.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 7+ years experience in fire alarm systems or related life safety discipline.
• NICET Level II Fire Alarm Systems certification required or obtainable within management timeframe.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Develop fire alarm system designs in accordance with NFPA standards and codes.
• Create design drawings and submittal packages using AutoCAD.
• Prepare material and equipment lists from system designs.
• Perform fire alarm system calculations and verify compliance.
• Support field personnel with technical guidance during project execution.
• Review requirements and customer needs to develop effective solutions.
• Communicate project status and design concerns to management.

Skills

Fire alarm design

NFPA 72 knowledge

Project coordination

Reading plans

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

NICET Level II Fire Alarm Systems certification

Tools

AutoCAD

Microsoft Office

Job description

Advantage Interests Inc. is a leading provider of fire protection, life safety, and security solutions. We are committed to delivering high-quality installations, exceptional customer service, and safe, code-compliant systems for commercial, industrial, government, and institutional clients.

As we continue to grow, we are seeking dedicated professionals who are passionate about delivering exceptional service and helping protect lives and property.

Position Summary

Eagle Fire is seeking a Fire Alarm Designer to join our growing team. This position is responsible for the design, layout, and documentation of fire alarm systems in accordance with applicable codes, standards, manufacturer requirements, and customer specifications.

The Fire Alarm Designer serves as a critical member of the Operations team and is responsible for producing accurate design drawings, calculations, material lists, and project documentation while supporting field operations throughout project execution. This role requires strong technical knowledge of fire alarm systems, applicable codes, and design software, as well as the ability to collaborate effectively with customers, project teams, authorities having jurisdiction, and field personnel.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop fire alarm system designs in accordance with NFPA standards, local codes, manufacturer requirements, and customer specifications.
• Create design drawings, installation documents, and project submittal packages using AutoCAD and other applicable design software.
• Prepare material and equipment lists based on completed system designs.
• Perform fire alarm system calculations and verify design compliance.
• Review project requirements, plans, specifications, and customer needs to develop effective system solutions.
• Support field personnel and subcontractors by providing technical guidance and resolving design-related issues.
• Modify designs as required to accommodate field conditions, customer requests, or project changes.
• Prepare documentation for customers, authorities having jurisdiction, and company records.
• Participate in project review meetings, pre-submittal meetings, and job cost discussions.
• Communicate project status, design concerns, schedule impacts, and technical issues to management and project teams.
• Assist with estimating and project planning activities as needed.
• Maintain required certifications and continuing education.
• Adhere to all Eagle Fire policies, procedures, and safety standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of seven years of experience in fire alarm systems, fire protection, or a related life safety discipline preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Technical Requirements

• Strong understanding of fire alarm systems, applicable codes, and industry standards.
• Working knowledge of NFPA 72 and applicable building and fire codes.
• Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, construction documents, and shop drawings.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD and related design software.
• Ability to perform system calculations and technical analysis.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and applicable business software.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Licenses & Certifications

• NICET Level II Fire Alarm Systems certification required, or the ability to obtain within a timeframe established by management.
• Additional manufacturer certifications and industry credentials are preferred.
• Candidates must maintain all certifications and licenses required to perform assigned responsibilities.

What Differentiates a Fire Alarm Designer?

A Fire Alarm Designer is expected to:

• Independently develop fire alarm system designs and project documentation.
• Produce accurate, code-compliant drawings, calculations, and submittal packages.
• Support field operations by resolving design-related challenges and coordinating project changes.
• Demonstrate strong technical knowledge of fire alarm systems and applicable codes.
• Manage multiple projects while maintaining quality, accuracy, and schedule commitments.
• Serve as a professional resource for customers, project teams, and field personnel.
• Contribute to successful project execution through proactive communication and technical expertise.

Preferred Qualifications for Future Advancement

Designers interested in future advancement opportunities should continue pursuing:

• NICET Level III or IV Fire Alarm Systems certification.
• Advanced manufacturer certifications and system-specific training.
• Expanded project management and estimating experience.
• Mentoring and technical leadership responsibilities.
• Expertise in large-scale, complex, and integrated life safety systems.
• Readiness for positions such as Senior Fire Alarm Designer, Design Manager, or Operations leadership roles.

Advantage Interests Inc, an Eagle Fire Owned company. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug Free Workplace.