Design Manager - Sprinkler Department

Davis-Ulmer Sprinkler Co.

$75K — $95K *
Real Estate & Construction
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years of fire sprinkler design experience with project leadership responsibility.
  • Strong working knowledge of NFPA standards and AHJ permitting practices.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and hydraulic calculation software; BIM/Revit experience preferred.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders simultaneously.
  • Experience in producing and reviewing shop drawings and hydraulic calculations.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development of fire sprinkler designs for various project types.
  • Manage design workload planning and ensure timely delivery of project drawings.
  • Review and approve technical design packages and related documentation.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards for fire protection.
  • Coordinate with various project stakeholders for design clarifications and RFI processing.
  • Mentor and develop design talent, setting performance goals and identifying training needs.
  • Implement a structured QA/QC process for all design deliverables.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance packages.
  • A culture that emphasizes teamwork and collaboration across locations.
  • Financial stability backed by a large corporation (APi Group) with growth opportunities.
  • Long-term career relationships fostering dedication and value in employees.
  • Value-driven recruitment to ensure alignment with organizational values.
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.

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