Associate Project Leader Jobs in Union, NJ (NOW HIRING)

DGA Security is seeking an Associate Project Manager – Fire Alarm to join our growing team. This is an excellent opportunity for an organized, motivated professional to develop a long-term career in fire and life safety project management with a well-established, industry-leading company.

The Role

As an Associate Project Manager, you will support the planning, coordination and execution of commercial fire alarm projects throughout the New York metropolitan area. Working closely with Project Managers, field teams, engineering/design, vendors, contractors, clients and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), you will help move projects from initial handoff through installation, inspection, final acceptance and closeout.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys coordinating multiple moving parts, solving problems and working in both construction and technical environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Support Fire Alarm Project Managers throughout the full project lifecycle, from project handoff and kickoff through installation, testing, inspection, final acceptance and closeout.
• Coordinate project schedules, field activities, materials, procurement and logistics to help ensure projects are completed safely, on time and within budget.
• Collaborate with clients, general contractors, subcontractors, vendors, field personnel and internal teams to communicate project requirements, resolve issues and keep work progressing.
• Review project drawings, specifications, scopes of work and submittals for accuracy and compliance with project requirements and applicable codes.
• Prepare, review and track permit applications, filings and documentation with AHJs, including approvals, comments, inspections and other requirements through final acceptance.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, including submittals, RFIs, change orders, permits, meeting notes, inspection records, as-builts and closeout documentation.
• Assist with project budgets, cost tracking, change orders, invoicing and billing documentation, and identify potential schedule or cost risks.
• Participate in project meetings and job site visits to monitor progress, quality, safety and coordination, and proactively escalate issues that could impact project delivery.
• Help ensure projects comply with NFPA 72, NEC, applicable local codes, AHJ requirements and DGA standards, while supporting continuous improvement of project management processes.

Required Education, Skills & Experience

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Construction Management, Engineering or a related field or equivalent relevant industry experience.
• 1–2 years of experience in project coordination, project management, construction, electrical contracting, low-voltage systems or a related field.
• Familiarity with fire alarm, fire and life safety, low-voltage or electrical systems preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications and project documentation.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines and priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Outlook and Word; experience with project management or construction management software is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of NFPA 72, NEC and New York City/local fire alarm requirements.
• Previous experience working with AHJs, permitting, filing, expediting or inspection processes.
• NICET Fire Alarm Systems certification or progress toward certification.
• FDNY Expeditor/Expediting credentials or relevant NYC filing experience.
• PMP, CAPM or other project management certification.
• Experience with commercial construction or fire alarm installation projects.

This role is designed to provide increasing responsibility and hands-on experience with the opportunity to develop into a Fire Alarm Project Manager.

Why DGA?

For over 50 years, DGA has been the trusted security provider for iconic brands, luxury businesses, and high-risk industries nationwide. We don’t just sell security systems, we provide customized, high-tech solutions to protect what matters most.

Our unparalleled full suite of Fire Systems Solutions includes:

• Design & Installation
• Testing & Inspection
• 24/7 UL Listed, FDNY-approved monitoring centers
• Contractor Support

We serve a prestigious client base, including luxury retailers, fine jewelry brands, top-tier hotels, cannabis businesses, high-end restaurants, financial institutions, and more.

What’s In It for You?

• Competitive Compensation: $80,000 – $95,000
• Career Progression
• Comprehensive insurance coverage (Health, Dental, Vision)
• 401(k) + employer match
• Company-paid life insurance

DGA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Here, we believe that embracing innovation is not just a core value, but a responsibility. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or any other characteristic, feels valued and supported. We provide equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and strive to foster a culture where differences are celebrated, and everyone's voice is heard. Your unique perspectives and experiences are what drive us forward.