Sr. Plumbing Fire Protection Engineer

Salas O'Brien; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 87,360 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

5 weeks of paid time off

Wellness programs and employee assistance resources

Professional development support

Job summary

Salas O'Brien in Buffalo, New York is seeking a Senior Plumbing / Fire Protection Engineer to lead design projects, mentor junior engineers, and ensure compliance with quality standards. Responsibilities include designing and detailing plumbing and fire protection systems, as well as performing engineering calculations. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree, 8+ years of experience, and strong skills in AutoCAD and Revit. This role offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical insurance and 401(k) matching.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in plumbing and fire protection system design.
• Professional Engineering (P.E.) license preferred or ability to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and detailing of plumbing and fire protection systems.
• Perform and review engineering calculations according to office standards.
• Design fire protection and plumbing systems.
• Listen to client needs and develop value-driven solutions.
• Maintain regular contact with clients to support long-term partnerships.

Skills

Independent leadership

Hydraulic and plumbing calculations

AutoCAD

Revit

Client communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Fire Protection Engineering

Tools

Hydraulic modeling tools

Job description

Expected base salary range: $87,360 – $120,000 per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• 5 weeks of paid time off and company holidays
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
• Professional development support

Job Summary

The Senior Plumbing / Fire Protection Engineer is a key technical leader responsible for directing the design of plumbing and fire protection systems across all phases of building projects—from concept through construction completion. This role independently drives engineering solutions, supports project teams, partners with clients, and upholds the firm’s standards for technical excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and detailing of plumbing and fire protection systems, ensuring accuracy, coordination, and compliance with QA/QC standards.
• Perform and review engineering calculations in accordance with office standards, including hydraulic calculations for fire protection systems.
• Design systems including:
  • Fire protection systems (wet, dry, pre-action, deluge)
  • Plumbing systems and equipment
  • Medical and laboratory gas systems
• Listen to client needs and develop value‑driven solutions considering performance requirements, first cost, and life‑cycle cost.
• Communicate design recommendations through meetings, presentations, written correspondence, and technical discussions.
• Maintain regular contact with clients to support long‑term partnerships and repeat business.
• Conduct site observations, gather field data, and interact with contractors during design and construction phases.
• Collaborate within integrated multidisciplinary teams and coordinate with mechanical, electrical, structural, architectural, and other disciplines.
• Evaluate design alternatives and support development of technical deliverables.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies, materials, and design methods through continuing education.
• Mentor junior engineers and designers, providing technical guidance and oversight.

Skills

• Demonstrated ability to independently lead engineering tasks and mentor others.
• Strong proficiency performing and reviewing hydraulic and plumbing calculations.
• Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, and hydraulic modeling tools.
• Excellent communication, organization, and client‑facing skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Professional Engineering (P.E.) license preferred or ability to obtain.
• 8+ years of experience in plumbing and fire protection system design.

Travel to project sites may be required on an occasional basis. 25–50%.

Location: Buffalo, New York & Rochester, New York.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement: Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability‑related needs of applicants as required by law.