Design Engineer

Summary of Role

Reporting to the Design Manager, the Main Contracts Design Engineer is responsible for the design, coordination, and technical delivery of automatic sprinkler systems for major construction projects across commercial, industrial, logistics, pharmaceutical, data centre, aviation, and high-rise developments.

The role requires close collaboration with clients, consultants, architects, contractors, suppliers, and internal project teams to ensure compliant, cost-effective, and coordinated sprinkler system designs are delivered in line with project programmes and relevant industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Engineering

• Develop detailed sprinkler system designs from concept through to construction and commissioning.
• Produce hydraulic calculations and ensure system performance meets applicable standards and client requirements.
• Prepare and review detailed working drawings using AutoCAD, Revit, BIM and associated design software.
• Ensure compliance with LPC Rules, BS EN 12845, FM Global, NFPA and project specifications where applicable.
• Coordinate sprinkler designs with other building services disciplines and construction teams.

Project Delivery

• Support project teams throughout the project lifecycle, from design through installation and handover.
• Attend site surveys, design review meetings, coordination workshops and progress meetings.
• Monitor design programmes to ensure deliverables align with project schedules.
• Provide technical support to Project Managers, Contracts Managers and installation teams.
• Assist with resolving technical issues and design queries during construction.

Commercial & Procurement Support

• Support procurement activities through technical evaluations and supplier engagement.
• Assist with evaluating design variations and value engineering opportunities.
• Contribute to project cost control by identifying efficient design solutions.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure all design documentation is complete, accurate and issued in accordance with company procedures.
• Prepare and manage design records, calculations, certification and handover documentation.
• Maintain awareness of industry standards, legislation and best practice.
• Support internal and external audits relating to design compliance.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience designing automatic sprinkler systems within the fire protection industry.
• Strong knowledge of LPC Rules and BS EN 12845 requirements.
• Experience producing hydraulic calculations.
• Proficient in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable

• LPCB Basic, Intermediate or Advanced Design qualifications.
• Experience of FM Global and NFPA standards.
• Revit/BIM experience.
• HNC/HND or degree qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Building Services Engineering or a related discipline.

Key Competencies

• Technical excellence
• Attention to detail
• Commercial awareness
• Problem solving
• Planning and organisation
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Client focus
• Continuous improvement

What Success Looks Like

• Designs delivered on time and within budget.
• High level of compliance with applicable standards and specifications.
• Effective coordination with clients and project teams.
• Minimal design-related site issues and rework.
• Positive client and internal stakeholder feedback.