Fire Alarm Designer

Job Title: Fire Alarm Designer

Location: Akron, OH

Department: Design

Employment Type: Full-time

Design the systems that warn people when seconds count. Bring your NFPA 72 know-how to a growing design team that supports projects across seven markets.

Why Silco

• Unlimited access to training at our James A. Fraser Training Center in Columbus, plus company-paid certifications.
• Eight-time Top Workplaces winner and an Inc. 5000 fastest-growing private company.
• Family-owned since 1931, with approachable leadership and real advancement across branches and departments.
• Veteran-friendly: about 30% of our team has served in the military.

About Silco

Silco Fire & Security protects lives and property for more than 45,000 businesses across Ohio, Kentucky and surrounding states. We design, install, inspect, service and monitor fire protection and security systems, from fire alarms, sprinklers and kitchen suppression to video surveillance and access control. Founded in 1931 and still family-owned and operated, Silco has more than 500 team members across seven branches: Cincinnati (headquarters), Akron, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Toledo and Louisville.

The Role

As a Fire Alarm Designer, you will design code-compliant fire alarm systems for new construction, retrofit and upgrade projects. You will produce drawings and submittals, run system calculations, and partner with sales, project management and field teams so that every design is accurate and buildable.

What You'll Do (Essential Functions)

• Design fire alarm systems for commercial and industrial projects in accordance with NFPA 72, IBC/OBC, local codes and project specifications.
• Produce detailed drawings, schematics and submittal packages using FireCAD, AutoCAD or similar software.
• Conduct site surveys to assess existing conditions and design requirements.
• Perform battery, voltage drop and other system calculations.
• Interpret and apply code, standard and AHJ requirements to every design.
• Collaborate with sales, project management and field teams; support estimating and pre-construction.
• Complete QA/QC reviews of design packages for accuracy and completeness.
• Provide technical support through construction and project closeout.

What You Bring

Required

• Experience in fire alarm system design, drafting or a related field.
• Proficiency with FireCAD, AutoCAD or similar design software.
• Strong understanding of NFPA 72 and fire alarm system principles.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Valid driver's license and the ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Preferred

• NICET Fire Alarm Systems certification (Level III or higher strongly preferred).
• State fire alarm designer license where applicable.
• Experience with multiple fire alarm platforms (e.g., Edwards, Potter, Honeywell).
• Knowledge of permitting and AHJ processes.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to climb ladders, use lifts, and work at various heights.
• Able to lift, carry, and move up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and crouching throughout the workday.
• Must have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for handling small components and tools.
• Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, and testing equipment.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces or outdoor environments as needed.
• Requires occasional pushing, pulling, and reaching overhead.
• Must be able to wear and properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Capable of driving company vehicles and transporting equipment or materials when needed.
• Ability to remain alert and focused while performing detailed or repetitive tasks.

Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision insurance; accident and illness insurance; Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Company-paid short-term disability and life insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid holidays and generous paid time off.
• Tuition reimbursement and company-paid training and certifications.
• Up to 8 paid volunteer hours per year, plus dollar-for-dollar matching of your charitable gifts.
• Company events and recognition programs that celebrate success.

Equal Opportunity

Silco Fire & Security is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Reasonable accommodation: Silco provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants and employees with known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions. If you need an accommodation to apply or interview, contact Human Resources at (513) 733-5655 or aschmitz@silcofs.com.

Offers of employment are contingent on successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug screen, conducted in accordance with applicable law, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Positions that drive for work also require a motor vehicle record review. Criminal history is evaluated individually in light of the position's duties.

This description outlines the essential functions, qualifications and physical demands of the position. It is not an exhaustive list of duties; other duties may be assigned. It does not create a contract of employment. Employment with Silco is at will.