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Fire Alarm Design Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most recognizable ... The Fire Alarm Technician 2 provides high quality customer support through on-site service, complex ...

C. Dean, Inc. is seeking a Fire Alarm Project Leader 1 with experience in design and implementation experience in technology applications. The ideal candidate will have experience in fire alarm ...

C. Dean, Inc. is seeking a Fire Alarm Project Leader 2 with experience with design and implementation experience in technology applications. The ideal candidate will have experience in fire alarm ...

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Fire Alarm Design information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$28

$41

How much do fire alarm design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire alarm design in Virginia is $28.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.37 and $32.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is fire alarm design?

Fire alarm design is the process of planning and creating systems that detect fire or smoke and alert building occupants and emergency services. This involves selecting appropriate devices, determining their placement, and ensuring compliance with local building codes and standards like NFPA 72. Fire alarm designers work with architects, engineers, and contractors to create effective and reliable systems that protect lives and property. Their work includes creating detailed plans, specifications, and sometimes overseeing system installation and testing.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in fire alarm design, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Fire Alarm Design often encounter challenges such as staying current with evolving fire codes, coordinating with multiple stakeholders (like architects, electrical engineers, and local authorities), and ensuring system compatibility with existing building infrastructure. Addressing these challenges requires continuous education, strong communication skills, and careful attention to detail during both design and documentation phases. Proactively seeking feedback from installation teams and participating in industry training can help designers stay ahead and ensure project success.

What is the difference between Fire Alarm Design vs Fire Alarm Installation?

AspectFire Alarm DesignFire Alarm Installation
Primary FocusCreating system layouts, specifications, and plansInstalling and wiring fire alarm systems on-site
Required SkillsDesign software, code compliance, technical planningElectrical work, hands-on installation, troubleshooting
CertificationsFire alarm design certifications, technical licensesElectrical licenses, installer certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice, design studios, project planningConstruction sites, building interiors

Fire Alarm Design involves planning and creating detailed system layouts, while Fire Alarm Installation focuses on physically setting up and wiring the systems on-site. Both roles require technical knowledge and certifications, but they differ in daily tasks and work environments. Understanding these differences helps employers and professionals choose the right career path or job role in the fire safety industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire alarm designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Alarm Designer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, fire codes, and system design, often supported by a relevant degree or NICET certification. Proficiency in AutoCAD, fire alarm design software, and knowledge of NFPA standards are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate, compliant designs that protect lives and property while facilitating smooth collaboration with project teams.
Infographic showing various Fire Alarm Design job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,025 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Fire Alarm Technician 2

M.C. Dean, Inc

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


M.C. Dean rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 443 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most recognizable mission critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. The company's capabilities include electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life safety, automation and controls, audio visual, and IT systems. M.C. Dean is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, and employs more than 5,800 professionals who engineer and deploy automated, secure, and resilient power and technology systems; and deliver the management platforms essential for long-term system sustainability.
Why join M.C. Dean? Our people are inspired by the way engineering and innovation enhance customer outcomes, improve lives, and change the world for the better. We are driven by our core values of agility, expertise, and trust.
The Fire Alarm Technician 2 provides high quality customer support through on-site service, complex troubleshooting, programming, installation, and maintenance services of various FA Systems under little to no supervision
Responsibilities
  • Plan and perform testing and inspection of large fire alarm systems per NFPA and local code standards, noting existing and potential deficiencies.
  • Perform complete site surveys for potential PM inspections and FA system changes/modifications, prepare corresponding quotations.
  • Program and service fire alarm systems of various models.
  • Troubleshoot various FA systems including Notifier, Siemens, Edwards, Gamewell, Honeywell, Firelite, etc.
  • Perform mid-size FA system upgrades and installation based on provided drawings and submittals.
  • Perform pre-testing and final inspections for assigned projects.
  • Perform PITCO activities.
  • Complete job-related documents including ROC, Test Forms etc.
  • Be on rotation to respond to afterhours service calls as scheduled by supervisor.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable codes and standards.
  • Perform online research, installation manuals, manufacture manuals to determine materials requirements and installation procedures.
  • Provide training to apprentices and crewmembers.

We offer an excellent benefits package including:
  • A competitive salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Military Reserve pay offset
  • Paid maternity leave

Qualifications
  • HS Diploma/GED required with 5 years of relevant experience or 2 years technology degree and 4 years of relevant experience
  • Work overtime as directed by supervisor.
  • Must be willing to work on M.C. Dean, Inc. projects anywhere.
  • Must be able to pass a background check.
  • Must be able to pass random drug screening.
  • Must have valid driver's license, good driving records to operate a MC Dean vehicle as part of this job requirement.
  • Must consistently report to work on time, work well with other employees to accomplish a common goal, and maintain a safe work environment.
  • Advanced troubleshooting including researching online, system manuals to resolve problems.
  • Knowledge of NFPA 72, NEC, Fire Alarm System Theory, OSHA Requirements, and Industry Standards for Fire Alarm systems installation.
  • This position has been identified as requiring an additional client background check

Certifications:
  • Possess NICET Level II in Inspection and Testing of FA Systems or
  • Pass exam within 90 days of employment
  • Possess NICET Fire Alarm Systems Level 3 or 4 highly preferred

Abilities:
  • The position requires the ability to lift, carry, and move objects weighing up to [50 pounds] on a regular basis. Candidates must demonstrate physical strength and stamina to perform various tasks, including but not limited to, loading, and unloading, operating equipment, and assisting in the transportation of various materials. Proper lifting techniques and safety protocols must be followed to ensure personal and team safety.
  • Relocates a 12 foot stepladder without assistance.
  • Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial lifts, catwalks and all types of ladders.
  • Walks, climbs, lifts, squats, crawls, kneels, pushes, pulls and reaches overhead on a routine and repetitive basis.
  • Possess good vision (may be corrected vision), the ability to see in color, and the ability to hear and communicate in English.
  • May use a standard ladder without exceeding the weight limit while carrying tools.
  • Tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
  • Apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
  • Combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (including finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
  • See details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  • Listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Other Qualifications:
  • Above average level of attention to detail and professional work ethic.
  • Commitment to excellence and a high quality of work.
  • Ability to function in a controlled, effective manner under stress.
  • High level of customer service.
  • Strong desire to continuously increase your skill set and take on more responsibility.
  • Above average communication skills with customers, other field personnel, office staff and sub-contractors.

Pay Range
USD $33.00 - USD $39.00 /Hr.

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About M.C. Dean

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most recognizable mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. The company's capabilities include electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life-safety, instrumentation and control, and command and control systems. M.C. Dean is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, and employs more than 5,100 professionals who engineer and deploy automated, secure, and resilient power and technology systems; and deliver the management platforms essential for long-term system sustainability.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tysons, VA, US

Year founded

1949

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