Full Job Description
Due to continued growth, we are looking for a Sprinkler Design Manager to join our team in Corning, NY. As a Sprinkler Design Manager, you will lead the design and engineering of fire sprinkler systems from concept through permit and construction support. This role manages internal and/or subcontract design resources, ensures code-compliant and cost-effective designs, coordinates with project stakeholders, and drives schedule, quality, and continuous improvement across the design function.
Key Responsibilities:
Design Leadership & Delivery
• Lead the development of fire sprinkler system designs for new construction, tenant improvements, and retrofit projects.
• Manage design workload planning, prioritization, and on-time delivery of drawings, calculations, and submittals.
• Review and approve design packages including shop drawings, hydraulic calculations, product data, seismic bracing layouts, hanger details, and valve/alarm riser configurations.
• Provide constructability input and value engineering recommendations to improve installation efficiency and reduce cost.
Code Compliance & Technical Standards
• Ensure designs comply with applicable codes and standards (e.g., NFPA 13, NFPA 13R/13D as applicable, NFPA 14, NFPA 20, NFPA 24, local AHJ requirements, FM Global/insurance criteria where required).
• Interpret project specifications, building plans, water supply data, and fire protection criteria to produce compliant system layouts.
• Maintain and enforce department standards for drafting practices, calculation methodology, and documentation.
Project Coordination & Stakeholder Management
• Coordinate with Project Managers, estimators, field operations, GCs, owners, architects, and other trades (mechanical, electrical, structural).
• Serve as the primary design point of contact for RFIs, design clarifications, clash coordination, and plan review comments.
• Support permitting and AHJ submittal processes; attend plan review meetings when needed.
Team Management & Development
• Lead, mentor, and develop designers/drafters/engineers (direct reports and/or outsourced resources).
• Set goals, conduct performance reviews, and identify training needs (codes, tools, detailing standards, coordination of best practices).
• Build a scalable design workflow, including templates, checklists, and QA/QC processes.
Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QA/QC)
• Implement and maintain a structured QA/QC review process for all deliverables prior to release.
• Conduct root-cause analysis on design-related field issues and implement corrective actions.
• Track and report key metrics (on-time submittals, rework rates, permit turnaround, revision cycles).
Tools, Technology & Process Improvement
• Oversee use of design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit/BIM as applicable, hydraulic calculation software such as HASS/AutoSPRINK/Elite Fire or equivalent).
• Drive standardization and continuous improvement for BIM coordination, detailing, and documentation practices.
• Maintain drawing and document control procedures.
Required Qualifications
• 5+ years of fire sprinkler design experience, including project leadership responsibility.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders simultaneously.
• Strong working knowledge of NFPA standards and AHJ permitting practices.
• Demonstrated experience producing and reviewing shop drawings and hydraulic calculations.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD and hydraulic calculation software; BIM/Revit experience preferred where applicable. St
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain technical requirements clearly.
Preferred Qualifications
• NICET certification in Water-Based Systems (Level III or IV).
• Experience with BIM/VDC coordination in Revit/Navisworks (or similar).
• Experience designing across multiple occupancies (healthcare, industrial, high-rise, warehouses, multifamily, etc.).
• Familiarity with performance-based design approaches and special hazards (where applicable).
Key Competencies
• Technical leadership and attention to detail
• Planning, prioritization, and accountability
• Collaborative coordination across trades and project teams
• Coaching and developing design talent
• Continuous improvement mindset
Work Environment / Physical Requirements
• Office-based with periodic jobsite visits and plan review meetings.
• Ability to read construction documents for extended periods and work at a computer.
Competitive Compensation: We offer competitive pay rates for experienced professionals, ensuring your skills are recognized and rewarded appropriately.
Comprehensive Benefits Package: Enjoy an industry-leading benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and additional perks, ensuring your health and well-being are taken care of.
Strength of the Family: The Davis-Ulmer Family of Companies, with over 30 locations across the East Coast and Midwest, epitomizes the strength of a team-first mindset. Embracing a culture of collaboration, we unite to share knowledge, resources, and best practices across our network of branches. This collective approach strengthens us as a cohesive group, amplifying our impact far beyond what any individual business unit could achieve alone.
Backed by APi Group: As a subsidiary of APi Group, a publicly traded, multi-billion-dollar corporation headquartered in Minnesota, we provide the financial stability and support needed for success. Benefit from world-class training and leadership development opportunities, backed by a powerhouse in the Fire Life Safety & Security industry.
Long-Term Career Relationships: Many of our employees have been with us for 20+ years! We believe in investing in the right people, fostering enduring professional relationships that benefit both individuals and the company alike. Join us and become part of a community where your dedication is recognized and valued for the long term.
Values Match: We prioritize hiring individuals whose values align with ours. Our commitment to value-driven recruitment is a cornerstone of our People/Talent Development Operating Code.