Principal Fire Systems Engineer
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
Design & Delivery
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Lead the design and design verification of Fire Detection systems.
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Ensure compliance with BS 5839-1 and client-specific standards (e.g., Network Rail, TfL).
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Review and manage MEP consultants' designs for: o Safety by design o Technical adequacy o Constructability & maintainability o Interface integration Documentation & Compliance
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Develop and author Fire Alarm Cause & Effects documents.
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Coordinate all third-party system interfaces (e.g., HVAC, BMS, life safety).
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Ensure design standards meet BRE Global / FM Global accreditation criteria.
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Manage the LPS1014 F353 form to maintain compliance. Stakeholder Coordination
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Work with Engineering Managers, Project Managers, and CREs to ensure design strategy meets cost, quality, and timeline targets.
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Provide technical responses, lead standardisation efforts, and promote value engineering.
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Represent the team during meetings with accreditation bodies and clients. Project & Line Management
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Oversee and support procurement, tendering, and installation phases.
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Mentor and develop junior, graduate, and intermediate engineers.
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Lead small engineering teams in project delivery.
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Actively participate in H&S management via the Notify system.
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Ensure mandatory training and information security compliance.
Requirements
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Degree/HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering or similar.
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LPCB Basic Sprinkler Design Certification (even though it's more suppression-related, it's listed here).
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Fire Detection Training: o BS 5839-1 Fundamentals - Units 1 & 2 o BS 5839-1 Fundamentals to Advanced
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Professional body membership (IFE, IMechE).
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Engineering Council registration encouraged (EngTech / IEng / CEng). Technical Skills & Knowledge (Essential)
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Deep understanding of: o BS 5839-1 (Fire Detection & Alarm design) o Network Rail / TfL standards o Passive and active fire safety systems
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Skilled in Fire Detection system design, BIM/CAD, and design assurance.
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Authoring complex Cause & Effect documentation.
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Familiarity with audit processes (BRE Global etc.).
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Experience (Essential)
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Significant experience designing Fire Detection and Suppression Systems in Rail sector projects.
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Strong track record of managing client expectations, stakeholder coordination, and design integration.