Design Manager

Our fast-growing fire sprinkler protection and life safety system company has a full-time career opportunity for a Design Manager to work with us in Austin, TX. We are growing rapidly and are recruiting top talent to join our team.

Honesty, hard work, safety and quality workmanship provide the foundation for our six decades of success. Investment in and support of our more than 1800 employees, with more than 50 professionals who hold NICET Certifications is essential to our growth and success.

VSC Fire & Security, Inc. recruits and retains outstanding fire protection and life safety professionals by offering:

• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience
• A challenging work environment with endless opportunities
• Top-tier benefit package:
• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account(s)
• Life insurance and voluntary life insurance
• Short term and long term disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• 401(k) retirement plan with generous company match
• Paid holiday and vacation days
• Cutting-edge technological expertise in fire protection and life safety solutions
• A strong safety record

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Responsible for management and supervision of Design Department. Functions as a working manager performing as highly skilled senior Layout Technician. Assigns and monitors work of Layout Technicians. Oversees all aspects of the design layout, field checking, material equipment submittals, hydraulic calculations, applicable installation requirements, and close out procedures performed by the Layout Technicians.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervision of Design Department personnel.
• Reviews all documents and available information to determine scope of the assigned project.
• Assigns project to designated layout technician, providing appropriate level of supervision based on technical demands and scope of the project, and experience level of the technician.
• Monitors work in progress to assure drawings, submittals, and approval process remain within project and construction schedules.
• As needed, insures that change orders are approved, documented, and are managed to the satisfaction of the customer and for the benefit of the company.
• Monitors activity, productivity, and accuracy of Layout Technicians to ensure effective use of manpower.
• Plans and monitors design hours, including necessary overtime, to maintain design costs within estimated costs to meet department's financial goals.
• Ensures compliance with NFPA standards.
• Is responsible for selection, hiring, training, discipline, and termination of design department employees. Seeks assistance from Human Resources Director or Division Manager as appropriate.
• Documents employee actions with assistance of Office Manager.
• Responsible for safety and training programs for department. Ensures company policies are observed adhered to.
• Ensures delivery of quality service to the customer while maintaining scope of the company's obligations as defined by the contract and/or approved change orders.
• Works closely with Sales staff, Division Manager and field supervisors and technicians during all phases of contract.
• Interacts and communicates in a professional and positive manner with customers, county officials, water purveyors, general contractor or project manager throughout design and installation process.
• Able to resolve problems or conflicts using negotiation and problem resolution skills, and through appropriate interpretations of architect drawings and specifications.
• Is responsible for training, utilization and troubleshooting of AutoCAD software. Directs file management of department-created design information sheets in accordance with prescribed standards.

EXPERIENCE:

• Five to seven (5-7) years of experience with AutoCAD or SprinkCAD or background in fire protection.
• NICET Level III or IV.
• Understanding of NFPA and local Authorities Having Jurisdiction, fire and building code requirements, as well as state and local code requirements.
• Ability to interpret architect drawings and specifications.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills with attention to detail.
• Strong negotiation and problem resolution, with an aptitude for leadership.
• Review architectural drawings, mechanical, site, structural and completes site surveys, and research essential information as required for structural and mechanical elements.
• Integrate other mechanical systems to ensure successful coordination with the fire suppression system and must be able to recognize potential conflicts with other trades.
• Exercises a high level of autonomy in organizing, planning, and prioritizing multiple projects to meet individual deadlines with exceptional attention to detail and communication skills.
• Monitor and enforce safety policies and procedures.
• Ability to pass various background checks.
• Reliable transportation, valid State Driver's License with acceptable driving record for use of company vehicle.
• Desirable (but not required!): Associate or bachelor’s degree in drafting (AutoCAD).