Senior Fire Alarm Designer

Associated Fire Protection, Inc.; Clayton (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Associated Fire Protection, Inc. is seeking an experienced Senior Fire Alarm Designer to join our growing Fire Alarm Division in North Carolina.

You will design fire alarm systems for a range of commercial and industrial projects, ensuring code compliance and collaboration with project teams from design through installation. You will lead design efforts using AutoCAD, develop layouts, calculations, and equipment schedules, and support estimating and preconstruction activities as the division

Qualifications

• NICET Level III Certification in Fire Alarm Systems preferred.
• Five+ years of fire alarm system design or related experience preferred.
• Strong AutoCAD skills and fire alarm design software experience.
• Thorough understanding of NFPA 72 and NFPA 70 and applicable codes.
• Experience with addressable systems, networked panels, and emergency comms.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• CAD-related certification or degree desired.
• Experience with estimating, project coordination, or customer relationships a plus.
• Willingness to learn and take on additional responsibilities.
• Safety-conscious with valid driver's license preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design fire alarm systems for commercial and industrial projects using AutoCAD.
• Prepare fire alarm layouts, shop drawings, riser diagrams, equipment schedules, and calculations.
• Perform battery capacity, voltage drop, and other fire alarm calculations.
• Ensure designs comply with NFPA 72, NFPA 70, and applicable codes.
• Prepare and submit plans for permitting and approvals.
• Coordinate interfaces with sprinkler, HVAC, elevators, and other systems.
• Assist with onsite field surveys, trade coordination, and resolve installation challenges.
• Provide technical guidance, drawing reviews, and support to developing designers.
• Support Preconstruction with estimating, material takeoffs, and design solutions.
• Develop experience in estimating, customer relationships, and business development as the division grows.

Skills

AutoCAD

NFPA standards

Fire alarm design

Communication

Organizational skills

Field coordination

Education

NICET Level III Certification

CAD/Engineering Technology credential

Tools

AutoCAD

Fire alarm design software

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Fire Alarm Designer to join our growing Fire Alarm Division at Associated Fire Protection (AFP). In this role, you will be responsible for designing fire alarm systems for a wide range of commercial and industrial projects, ensuring code compliance, and working closely with our project teams from design through installation. Strong AutoCAD skills and experience with fire alarm system design are essential.

This is a great career opportunity for an experienced designer looking to take the next step professionally. As AFP continues to grow our Fire Alarm Division, this position offers a unique pathway into our Preconstruction Department, with opportunities to become involved in estimating, customer relationships, business development, and eventually Fire Alarm Sales.

What You’ll Do

Provide design of fire alarm systems for a wide range of commercial and industrial projects using AutoCAD.

Prepare fire alarm layouts, shop drawings, riser diagrams, equipment schedules, and supporting calculations.

Perform battery capacity, voltage-drop, and other required fire alarm system calculations.

Ensure designs comply with NFPA 72, NFPA 70, and applicable building and fire codes.

Prepare and submit plans for permitting and obtain necessary approvals for projects.

Coordinate fire alarm system interfaces with sprinkler, HVAC, elevators, and other building systems.

Assist with onsite field surveys, trade coordination, and resolving installation challenges.

Work closely with Project Managers and field personnel throughout the project from design to completion.

Provide technical guidance, drawing reviews, and support to developing designers.

Support our Preconstruction Department with estimating, material takeoffs, and cost-effective design solutions.

Develop experience in estimating, customer relationships, and business development as our Fire Alarm Division continues to grow.

What You Bring

NICET Level III Certification in Fire Alarm Systems strongly preferred.

Five or more years of fire alarm system design or related technical experience preferred.

Strong AutoCAD skills and experience with fire alarm design software.

Thorough understanding of NFPA 72, NFPA 70, and applicable building and fire codes.

Experience with addressable fire alarm systems, networked panels, and emergency communication systems.

Must possess good organizational and communication skills and a strong work ethic.

Certification, diploma, or degree in CAD, Engineering Technology, or a related field is desired.

Experience with estimating, project coordination, or customer relationships is a plus.

Willingness to learn, grow professionally, and take on additional responsibilities.

Safety-conscious and able to adhere to company safety protocols.

Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred.

Why AFP

• A respected, family-oriented company built on Integrity, Courteousness, Accountability, and Commitment to Excellence.
• A rare opportunity to build and lead a new division within an established company.
• Profit Sharing Program
• Long-term career growth and leadership development.
• Support for licensing, certification, and professional development.
• Meaningful work that directly supports our mission of Protecting What Matters Most.

Job Type: Full-time

Work with One of North Carolina’s Most Trusted Fire Protection Teams