Independent Contractor Architectural Rendering Jobs in Rochester, NY

The expected base salary range for this role is $95,000 – $135,000 per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• 5 weeks of paid time off and company holidays
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
• Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here - www.salasobrien.com/benefits

Job Summary

The Senior Plumbing / Fire Protection Engineer is a key technical leader responsible for directing the design of plumbing and fire protection systems across all phases of building projects—from concept through construction completion. This role independently drives engineering solutions, supports project teams, partners with clients, and upholds the firm’s standards for technical excellence.

Senior Engineers balance design leadership, client communication, and field involvement while mentoring junior staff and contributing to the long-term success of the engineering practice.

General Duties

• Lead the design and detailing of plumbing and fire protection systems, ensuring accuracy, coordination, and compliance with QA/QC standards
• Perform and review engineering calculations in accordance with office standards, including hydraulic calculations for fire protection systems
• Design systems including:
• Fire protection systems (wet, dry, pre-action, deluge)
• Plumbing systems and equipment
• Medical and laboratory gas systems
• Listen to client needs and develop value-driven solutions considering performance requirements, first cost, and life-cycle cost
• Communicate design recommendations through meetings, presentations, written correspondence, and technical discussions
• Maintain regular contact with clients to support long-term partnerships and repeat business
• Conduct site observations, gather field data, and interact with contractors during design and construction phases
• Collaborate within integrated, multidisciplinary teams and coordinate with mechanical, electrical, structural, architectural, and other disciplines
• Evaluate design alternatives and support development of technical deliverables
• Stay informed on emerging technologies, materials, and design methods through continuing education
• Mentor junior engineers and designers, providing technical guidance and oversight

Skills

• Demonstrated ability to independently lead engineering tasks and mentor others
• Strong proficiency performing and reviewing hydraulic and plumbing calculations
• Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, and hydraulic modeling tools
• Excellent communication, organization, and client-facing skills

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, or a related discipline
• Professional Engineering (P.E.) license preferred or ability to obtain
• 8+ years of experience in plumbing and fire protection system design

Travel

Travel to project sites may be required on an occasional basis. 25-50%

Location: Buffalo, New York & Rochester, New York

About Us

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.

Third-Party Agency Notice

Salas O’Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.