Job Description

Practice Lead Fire Protection Engineer (Relocation Assistance Available)

Austin, Texas (Hybrid)

Overview

A nationally recognized, multidisciplinary engineering firm is seeking a Practice Lead – Fire Protection Engineering to establish and grow its fire protection presence in Austin.

This role is ideal for a senior fire protection professional who is looking to step into a visible leadership position with real influence. You will play a critical role in shaping the direction of the fire protection discipline locally—balancing technical excellence, project leadership, and team development within a collaborative, design-focused environment.

Position Summary

As the Practice Lead, you will serve as the go-to technical authority for fire protection and life safety systems while helping to build and expand the team. You will lead projects from concept through construction, interface directly with clients, and contribute to strategic growth initiatives in the Austin market.

This is an opportunity to move beyond a purely execution-focused role and take on a position where you can drive standards, mentor talent, and influence how projects are delivered .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of fire protection and life safety systems , including fire alarm, sprinkler, and special hazard systems across a diverse range of projects
• Perform and oversee hydraulic calculations, system sizing, and detailed code analysis in accordance with NFPA, IBC, and local AHJ requirements
• Manage projects through all phases, including schematic design, design development, construction documents, and construction administration
• Act as a technical leader and subject matter expert , providing guidance on fire and life safety strategies, including smoke control and performance-based design approaches
• Collaborate with clients, architects, and multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver integrated, high-quality solutions
• Mentor and develop junior engineers and designers, helping to build technical depth and consistency within the team
• Support business development efforts by contributing to client relationships, proposals, and pursuit strategies
• Play a central role in building, growing, and shaping the fire protection team in Austin, including involvement in hiring and long-term planning

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in fire protection engineering within a consulting environment
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required (or ability to obtain in Texas)
• Strong experience with fire alarm, sprinkler, and life safety system design
• In-depth knowledge of NFPA codes, IBC, and local jurisdictional requirements
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and related design tools
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects, manage priorities, and communicate effectively with clients and internal teams
• Experience mentoring staff and contributing to team growth or discipline development

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary: $160,000 – $190,000
• Performance-based bonus
• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, retirement)
• Relocation assistance available

Why This Opportunity

• Step into a true leadership role with the ability to shape a growing discipline
• Opportunity to build and develop a team in a high-demand market
• Work on a diverse portfolio of technically challenging projects across multiple sectors
• Join a collaborative, forward-thinking environment with strong national support and resources
• Clear path for continued growth into regional roles

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