Sprinkler Designer

Fire-Fighter-Sales-and-Service-Company; Warrendale (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 65,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co. in Warrendale, PA is seeking a Sprinkler Designer I to plan and layout fire sprinkler systems using HydraCAD, interpret drawings, and ensure code-compliant designs under NFPA standards.

You will perform hydraulic calculations, coordinate with building systems, conduct field checks, prepare material lists, and support project management from design through O&M handover.

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in engineering, Drafting, Fire Protection Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2–5 years of hands-on fire sprinkler design experience preferred.
• NICET Level II certification in Water-Based Systems Layout preferred.
• Proficiency with HydraCAD and 3D design tools (AutoCAD, Revit) preferred.
• Strong knowledge of NFPA 13, 14, and 20 codes and standards.

Responsibilities

• Design and lay out fire sprinkler systems using HydraCAD and related software.
• Read construction drawings and apply NFPA codes for compliant designs.
• Coordinate piping layouts with structural, architectural, mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems.
• Perform hydraulic calculations and hydrostatic tests for system adequacy.
• Conduct on-site field checks to verify dimensions and installation adherence.
• Prepare material lists and manage procurement for timely installations.
• Participate in project management and client turnover with O&M manuals.

Skills

HydraCAD

NFPA knowledge

Hydraulic calculations

Reading drawings

Project coordination

Education

Associate or Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

HydraCAD

Job description

Job DetailsJob Location: Fire Fighter Sales and Svcs Co - Warrendale, PA 15086Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: 2 Year DegreeTravel Percentage: Up to 25%Job Shift: DayJob Category: EngineeringJob Summary: The Sprinkler Designer I is responsible for planning and laying out fire sprinkler systems in accordance with applicable codes and standards. Utilizing architectural and constructions drawings, the designer develops detailed and accurate fire sprinkler system designs and hydraulic calculations. These plans are prepared for submission and approval by relevant authorities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The following list is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. The employer reserves the right to change or assign other duties to this position. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

• Design and layout fire sprinkler systems using HydraCAD and related design software.
• Read and interpret construction drawings while applying relevant NFPA codes and local standards to ensure code-compliant designs.
• Coordinate sprinkler system piping layouts with structural, architectural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems to ensure seamless integration and avoid design conflicts.
• Perform hydraulic piping calculations to confirm proper system functionality and regulatory compliance.
• Conduct hydrostatic flow tests to validate available water supply and system adequacy.
• Perform on-site field checks to verify dimensions, installation conditions, and adherence to design specifications.
• Prepare detailed material stock listings and manage procurement to support efficient and timely system installations.
• Participate in project management activities, including attending job site meetings, collaborating with superintendents, monitoring project schedules, and ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery.
• Upon project completion, compile as-built drawings and prepare a comprehensive Operations & Maintenance (O&M) manual for client turnover.

QualificationsJob Requirements:

• Education: Associate or bachelor’s degree in engineering, Drafting, Fire Protection Technology, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Experience: 2-5 years of hands-on experience in fire sprinkler design preferred.
• Certifications: NICET Level II certification in Water-Based Systems Layout is preferred.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency with HydraCAD and 3D design tools (AutoCAD, Revit, or similar) preferred.
  • Strong working knowledge of NFPA codes and standards, particularly NFPA 13, 14, and 20.
  • Solid understanding of hydraulic calculations and water supply design principles.
• Analytical Skills: Strong mathematical and problem-solving abilities to perform accurate system calculations.
• Organizational Skills: Excellent time management, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Teamwork and Independence: Demonstrated ability to work independently as a self-started, as well as collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.

Work Environment/Physical Requirements:

• The primary work setting is an office environment, involving regular use of computers, design software, and standard office equipment.
• Occasional travel to customer facilities or active construction job sites is required. Site visits may expose employees to clean or unclean environments, fluctuating temperatures, or physically active job sites.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) – such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and steel toed boots-is required when on site.
• The role may involve prolonged periods of standing or walking, particularly during field checks, inspections, or site coordination activities.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Company paid life insurance and long-term disability coverage.
• Access to optional supplemental benefits to enhance coverage.
• Paid time off (PTO) available during your first year of employment.
• Seven (7) paid holidays annually
• 401K retirement plan with safe harbor match, including both traditional and Roth options.
• Business casual office environment.
• Supportive, team-oriented culture that values collaboration and growth.
• Employee Referral program with bonus opportunities.

Fire Fighter Sales and Service Co. is an Equal Opportunity andAffirmative Action Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran, or military status.