Technology & Low Voltage Systems Designer

Salas O'Brien; Vista (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Salas O’Brien seeks a Technology & Low Voltage Systems Designer to plan and design low voltage systems for K–12 facilities and complex commercial projects. You will deliver compliant, scalable designs and collaborate with architects, engineers, school districts, and contractors to enhance learning environments and future-ready infrastructure.

The role requires AutoCAD/Revit proficiency, coordination across disciplines, and adherence to TIA/EIA, NEC, NFPA, BISCI standards.

Qualifications

• 3–10+ years of experience in low voltage systems design.
• Experience with K–12 or similar institutional projects.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD (Revit/BIM experience preferred).
• Strong understanding of structured cabling and network design, including legacy analog and digital IP systems.
• Familiarity with AV, security, and life safety systems.
• Working knowledge of TIA/EIA, NEC, NFPA and BICSI standards.

Responsibilities

• Design and document low voltage systems for K–12 projects (cabling, network, AV, security, fire alarms).
• Prepare construction documents using AutoCAD and/or Revit
• Develop system layouts, riser diagrams, and technical project specifications
• Coordinate designs with architects, MEP engineers, and other consultants
• Participate in OAC meetings and client presentations
• Perform construction administration: submittals, RFIs, site observations
• Ensure compliance with codes: TIA/EIA, NEC, NFPA, ADA, and BISCI, plus California DSA where applicable

Skills

Low voltage design

AutoCAD

Revit/BIM

Structured cabling

Network design

AV systems

Security & life safety

Coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering / Telecommunications

Professional Engineer (PE) license

RCDD (BICSI) certification

CTS/CTS‑D (AVIXA) certification

NICET certification (fire alarm or low voltage)

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

BIM

Cisco/Crestron/Extron

Ekahau (wireless)

Job description

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future. Building for the long‑term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people‑first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high‑impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee‑owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges. We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high‑rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more. Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled Technology & Low Voltage Systems Designer to support the planning and design of low voltage systems for K–12 educational facilities and specialized commercial/corporate projects. This role will focus on delivering high-quality, compliant, and scalable designs for new construction and modernization projects. You will collaborate with architects, engineers, school districts, and contractors to design integrated technology systems that enhance learning environments, improve campus safety, and support future‑ready infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and document low voltage systems for K–12 projects, including:
  • Structured cabling (copper and fiber optic systems)
  • Network infrastructure (LAN/WAN, wireless systems)
  • Audio‑visual systems (classrooms, auditoriums, intercom/paging)
  • Security systems (CCTV, access control, intrusion detection)
  • Complete Fire alarm system designs and coordination
  • Clock, bell, and emergency communication systems
• Prepare construction documents using AutoCAD and/or Revit
• Develop system layouts, riser diagrams, and technical project specifications
• Coordinate designs with architects, MEP engineers, and other consultants
• Participate in OAC meetings and client presentations
• Perform construction administration:
  • Submittal reviews
  • RFIs
  • Site observations and punch lists
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards:
  • TIA/EIA, NEC, NFPA, ADA and BISCI
  • State and local agency requirements (e.g., DSA for educational facilities in California)

Qualifications And Experience

Required Qualifications

• 3–10+ years of experience in low voltage systems design
• Experience with K–12 or similar institutional projects
• Proficiency in AutoCAD (Revit/BIM experience preferred)
• Strong understanding of structured cabling and network design, including legacy analog and digital IP systems.
• Familiarity with AV, security, and life safety systems
• Working knowledge of TIA/EIA, NEC, NFPA and BICSI standards

Preferred Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• RCDD (BICSI) certification
• CTS or CTS‑D (AVIXA) certification
• NICET certification (fire alarm or low voltage systems)
• Professional Engineer (PE) license
• Experience with E-Rate funding programs
• Wireless design experience (Ekahau or similar tools)
• Manufacturer certifications (e.g., Cisco, Crestron, Extron)

Key Skills & Competencies

Proficiency in using engineering tools and software for design of:

• Strong coordination and interdisciplinary collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Problem‑solving and critical thinking abilities
• Adaptability: Flexibility and willingness to work on various projects and tasks, embracing new challenges.
• Initiative: Demonstrated ability to work independently and take initiative to drive projects forward.

Location

Vista, CA

Travel

Up to 25% pending project demands

Compensation & Benefits

Salas O’Brien health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Team members have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount. Salas O'Brien has both U.S. and Canadian (PTO) plans for full-time salaried, exempt and non-team members, 10 paid holidays, and paid leave programs for military service and new parents. And certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.

The base salary range for this position is $75,000 to $100,000. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

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, colour, 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.