Fire Alarm Project Manager
Application
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Syracuse Time & Alarm is seeking an experienced, technically proficient, and highly organized Technical Fire Alarm Project Manager to lead fire alarm projects from award through final completion. This role combines traditional project management responsibilities with deep technical oversight of fire alarm systems, ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, profitably, and in full compliance with applicable codes and standards.
The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in fire alarm systems and project execution. Unlike a traditional construction project manager, this position requires the ability to identify design deficiencies, equipment compatibility issues, code concerns, scheduling conflicts, and installation challenges before they become costly field problems.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management & Execution
- Lead all phases of fire alarm projects, including planning, procurement, scheduling, installation coordination, commissioning, and project closeout.
- Ensure projects are completed on schedule, within scope, and within budget.
- Monitor project financial performance, labor utilization, and material expenditures.
- Manage project documentation, change orders, status updates, and client communications.
- Coordinate manpower requirements and adjust priorities to support multiple active projects simultaneously.
Technical Leadership
- Review project drawings, specifications, and submittals prior to installation.
- Identify design deficiencies, scope discrepancies, device application concerns, sequence-of-operation issues, and equipment compatibility problems.
- Interpret blueprints, schematics, single-line diagrams, and CAD drawings.
- Verify proper device applications and environmental suitability.
- Review notification appliance loading, circuit capacities, and manufacturer compatibility requirements.
- Provide technical guidance and support to engineering, installation, service, and programming teams.
Code Compliance & Quality Assurance
- Ensure all installations comply with NFPA 72, NEC, ADA, manufacturer requirements, and applicable local codes.
- Conduct site visits to verify installation quality, project progress, and compliance with specifications.
- Resolve technical and field issues before they impact project schedules or customer satisfaction.
Client & Contractor Coordination
- Serve as the primary liaison between clients, contractors, field personnel, sales teams, engineers, and executive leadership.
- Coordinate activities with general contractors, electrical contractors, AHJs, end users, and internal stakeholders.
- Deliver exceptional customer service through proactive communication and professional problem solving.
Technical Qualifications
Required
Experience with commercial fire alarm systems and project management.
Strong understanding of:
Fire alarm system architecture
SLC, NAC, and IDC circuits
Initiating devices and notification appliances
Emergency control functions
Device applications and environmental limitations
Construction drawings and specifications
NFPA 72 fundamentals
Basic electrical and electronic principles
Ability to review plans and identify technical, operational, and code-related issues before installation.
Experience coordinating installation, commissioning, testing, and acceptance activities.
Preferred
- NICET certification or progress toward certification.
- CTS certification.
- Experience with Gamewell FCI, Notifier, or equivalent fire alarm platforms.
- Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Engineering Technology, Construction Management, or a related field.
Organizational & Leadership Competencies
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Exceptional organization and attention to detail.
- Strong time management and prioritization skills.
- Professional verbal and written communication abilities.
- Sound judgment and accountability.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and competing deadlines.
- Resource allocation, scheduling, and cost control experience.
- Strong collaboration and contractor coordination skills.
- Service-oriented mindset with a commitment to customer satisfaction.
- Initiative and a commitment to continuous professional development.
Software & Administrative Skills
- Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
- PDF editing and document management software.
- Professional documentation and reporting.
- Project scheduling and coordination tools.
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off, sick leave, paid holidays, and floating holidays
- Health, dental, vision, life, and AD&D insurance
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Family leave
- Professional training and certification development opportunities, including manufacturer training and NICET advancement support.
Schedule & Location
- Full-time, Monday through Friday
- Based in Syracuse, NY
- Travel throughout Central and Upstate New York required
- Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
Why Join Syracuse Time & Alarm?
You will play a critical role in delivering life-safety systems that protect hospitals, schools, universities, industrial facilities, and commercial buildings throughout New York. This position offers the opportunity to combine technical expertise, project leadership, and customer engagement while contributing directly to the safety of the communities we serve.