Fire Alarm Systems Designer

Position Fire Alarm Systems Designer

Department Commercial, Institutional and Architecture

Reporting Relationship Director, Commercial Electrical Engineering

COMPANY BACKGROUND

KFI Engineers is a recognized industry leader in facility infrastructure design and performance. Since 1996, our culture of collaboration and unique capabilities have allowed us to make a difference in the way infrastructure and processing projects are delivered.

Headquartered in St. Paul, MN, with eight regional offices and a team of over 250 professionals, we have a people-first culture that offers opportunities to continue your career with mentorship programs, career growth support, and continued education. With KFI, we find a way to provide creative solutions to unique projects while providing the same care we would expect if we were the client. For more information about KFI Engineers and our culture, please visit www.kfi-eng.com.

POSITION OVERVIEW & RESPONSIBILITIES

Building codes and technologies are rapidly evolving. We are seeking professionals with expert knowledge of applicable codes and regulations; extensive knowledge of standard engineering practices, techniques, and procedures; excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to work with both internal and external clients to solve problems on KFI’s projects across the country. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fire alarm system design with a passion for delivering high-quality solutions that prioritize safety, reliability, and compliance with relevant codes and standards.

Specific responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Responsible for the design and review of fire alarm systems.
• Participation in design review meetings and workshops.
• Work independently and make technical decisions based on building code interpretation, company standard practice, and professional experience.
• Coordination with all applicable local authority departments to obtain approval at all stages of the project.
• Coordination with other discipline engineers and architects as applicable.
• Responsible for hosting coordination meetings with the contractors to ensure that the intended design is implemented.
• Perform work which involves conventional engineering practice but may include a variety of complex features such as conflicting design requirements, unsuitability of conventional materials, and difficult coordination requirements.
• Perform construction administration duties, such as shop drawing review, RFI response, construction inspection, and respond to client questions.
• Responsible for regular site visits to ensure installation standard is satisfactory.
• Preparation of meeting records, design review and design progress reports.
• Liaise with Local suppliers / Contractors to ensure adherence to standards and scope of works required by client.
• Provide guidance and advice to the team for alternative proposals by the contractor.
• Take necessary actions to ensure the project proceeds on schedule and within budget limitations.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Four or more years of consulting engineering experience with emphasis on Fire Alarm System design tasks on commercial, municipal, institutional, healthcare, and/or government facilities

• Revit/BIM and Microsoft Office skills
• Knowledge of Fire Alarm System design tasks including:
  • Design Fire Alarm Systems including division 8, 21, and 23 interfaces and special hazard systems.
  • Preparation of Division 28 fire alarm specifications.
  • Expert knowledge of applicable codes and regulations.
  • Code consulting reviews and analyses based on Building and fire codes, and NFPA standards.
  • Fire alarm system installation and commissioning experience.
  • Ability to manage multiple reviews and deadlines.
  • Ability to evaluate new approaches, systems, and design solutions
  • Detail oriented and strong analytical skills.
  • Broad knowledge of precedents in the specialty area and practices of related specialties.
  • Ability to perform calculations relevant to fire alarm system designs (battery, voltage drop, etc.)
  • Ability to conduct and document work such as fire alarm systems.
  • Ability to conduct and document work such as basic building code and life safety analyses.
  • Developing performance-based strategies in a project design environment.
  • Excellent report writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Represent the company in a professional matter.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with others.
  • Knowledge of computer technology and specific areas of application.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field from an ABET accredited program. Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering preferred.
• Professional Engineer (PE) OR NICET I or II certification highly preferred.
• Knowledge of fire and smoke modeling. I.e. Using Contam and FDS
• Successful completion of the fire protection engineering written exam administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveys (NCEES).
• CBO or CFPS is nice to have.

If Applicable:

• Travel: May include up to 25% domestic travel.
• Working Conditions: Some work locations will feature the rough terrain typical of construction sites or require lifting or moving field testing equipment.

CORE BEHAVIORS

Accountable

• Demonstrates persistence in the achievement of goals.
• Acts with a sense of urgency.
• Takes responsibility for own actions.

Business Focus

• Demonstrates agility, adapts well to changes.
• Works well under pressure.
• Meets commitments to internal/external customers.

Project Execution

• Plans projects well, managing last-minute rushes and disruptions.
• Balances Speed and Quality.
• Looks for improvement in our delivery, tools, and processes.

Demonstrates Respect for Others

• Keeps others adequately informed.
• Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views.
• Adapts communication style and method based on audience and situation.

Team Player

• Balances team and individual responsibilities.
• Shares expertise with others.
• Inspires respect and trust.

KFI Engineers is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.