Freelance Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in Paramus, NJ

W&M Fire Protection is part of the Davis-Ulmer (DU) Family of Companies, a network of fire protection, life safety, and security service companies, protecting people and property across 30+ locations and 11 states. Founded in 1993 and proudly serving the tristate and New England regions for over 30 years, W&M is a full-service fire protection contractor with complete design, installation, and fabrication capability, backed by the strength of the DU Family of Companies, powered by APi Group. Living our motto, "we protect what you value most," W&M offers a challenging and rewarding work environment for those passionate about keeping communities safe.

Due to continued growth, we are looking to add an Entry-Level Fire Protection Designer to our Hawthorne, NY team. In this role, you will support the design and documentation of fire protection systems, including fire sprinklers, fire alarms, and related life safety systems. You will work under the guidance of senior designers and engineers to produce accurate drawings, calculations, and submittals. Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and the ability to collaborate across project teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the layout and design of fire protection systems (primarily fire sprinkler and/or fire alarm systems).
• Prepare drawings using AutoCAD, Revit, or other design software.
• Perform basic hydraulic calculations and system sizing under supervision.
• Review architectural and engineering drawings to identify fire protection requirements.
• Assist with code research and application of NFPA standards and local building codes.
• Support preparation of submittals, shop drawings, and material lists.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and field personnel to address design questions.
• Participate in design reviews and incorporate feedback from senior staff.
• Maintain organized project files and documentation.
• Support as-built drawing updates based on field conditions.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma, GED, or Technical School equivalent.
• Proficiency or willingness to learn AutoCAD; Revit experience is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to learn codes, standards, and industry best practices.
• Technical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Time management and ability to meet deadlines.
• Team-oriented mindset with a willingness to ask questions.
• Adaptability in a fast-paced project environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent relevant experience).
• Basic understanding of fire protection systems and life safety principles.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings.
• Coursework or internship experience related to fire protection or construction design.
• Familiarity with NFPA codes (e.g., NFPA 13, 14, 20, 72).
• Exposure to hydraulic calculation software (e.g., HydraCALC, SprinkCAD, or similar).

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Office-based role with occasional site visits or field coordination.
• Ability to sit for extended periods and work on a computer.

The wage for this role is $28 to $36 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.

As part of the DU Family of Companies, we believe that empowering and investing in our employees as leaders develops an organization that delivers innovative solutions and services that create a superior customer experience. The unique blend of our leader's abilities and the ownership of their work, combined with our culture and values, creates something that is simply described as the Davis-Ulmer difference.

Why Choose DU Family of Companies?

• Competitive Compensation - We offer a competitive wage based on your experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package - Including medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, and paid time off.
• Strength of the Family - As part of the DU Family of Companies, you gain the stability and resources of a nationwide network.
• Backed by APi Group - A global, multi-billion-dollar leader in life safety and specialty services.
• Long-Term Career Relationships - We invest in our people and support long-term career growth.
• Values Match - Join a team that shares your commitment to safety, integrity, and service.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

DAVIS-ULMER'S ENDURING PURPOSE: "To protect what people value most."

All offers of employment are expressly contingent upon the satisfactory completion, in accordance with Company policy, of a pre-employment drug screening and background check.