Fire Protection Designer

Fire Protection Designer

Davis-Ulmer (DU) Family of Companies is a network of fire protection, life safety, and security service companies, protecting people and property across 30+ locations and 11 states. Grunau Fire, a division of the DU Family of Companies with roots dating back to 1920, provides fire sprinkler, fire alarm, suppression, inspection, and maintenance services across Wisconsin, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. As a proud member of the DU Family of Companies, powered by APi Group, we combine the strength of a leading life safety network with the responsiveness and relationships of a local partner. Living our motto, "we protect what you value most," Grunau Fire offers a challenging and rewarding work environment for those passionate about keeping communities safe.

Due to continued growth, we are looking to add a Fire Protection Designer to our Coraopolis, PA team. In this role, you will design and lay out fire protection systems—including water-based sprinkler and special hazards suppression systems—preparing accurate, code-compliant drawings and hydraulic calculations that keep projects on schedule and communities protected. Your success will be measured by the quality, accuracy, and timeliness of your designs and your ability to collaborate effectively with project teams, contractors, and authorities having jurisdiction.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and lay out fire protection systems, including water-based sprinkler systems and special hazards suppression systems, in accordance with applicable codes and standards.
• Prepare detailed shop drawings, fabrication details, and hydraulic calculations using AutoCAD and related design software.
• Perform field measurements and site surveys to verify existing conditions and ensure accurate designs.
• Review project specifications, plans, and contract documents to determine scope and design requirements.
• Coordinate designs with other trades, project managers, and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) to obtain permits and approvals.
• Generate accurate material lists and bills of material to support procurement and fabrication.
• Provide technical support to field installation teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Maintain organized project documentation and revise designs as needed to address changes or comments.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical certification in a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Prior experience designing fire protection systems (water-based sprinkler and/or special hazards suppression) preferred.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD; experience with fire protection design software (e.g., HydraCAD, AutoSPRINK, or similar) preferred.
• Working knowledge of NFPA standards (including NFPA 13) and applicable local codes.
• NICET certification (Water-Based Systems Layout) or the ability to obtain it preferred.
• Strong math, analytical, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to perform hydraulic calculations.
• Excellent attention to detail, organization, and communication skills.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Primarily works in an office environment with periodic visits to job sites.
• Must be able to sit for extended periods while performing computer-based design work.
• Occasionally required to walk job sites, climb ladders, and navigate construction environments.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds as needed.

The wage for this role is at least $70,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications.

As part of the DU Family of Companies, you will join a team that values safety, integrity, and continuous growth. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and meaningful opportunities for career development.

Why Choose DU Family of Companies?

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Career development and advancement opportunities within a growing national network.
• A supportive, safety-first culture built on strong local relationships.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

DAVIS-ULMER'S ENDURING PURPOSE: "To protect what people value most."

All offers of employment are expressly contingent upon the satisfactory completion, in accordance with Company policy, of a pre-employment drug screening and background check.