Fire Protection Specialist Coordinator

GFT is seeking a Fire Protection Specialist Coordinator to support a variety of projects in the West Region. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at our Fife, WA office. 

At GFT, the electrical team is dedicated to creating efficient, innovative solutions for electrical systems, ensuring comfort and sustainability in every project. From energy-efficient power systems to advanced HVAC and plumbing designs, our team contributes to a resilient and sustainable built environment, pushing the boundaries of building system design and optimizing performance while addressing the unique needs of each facility. Explore some of our signature projects. 

What you'll be challenged to do:

This role is designed for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, technical environment and excels at keeping people, processes, and priorities aligned. The Fire Protection Specialist plays a central role in coordinating the development and execution of fire sprinkler, life safety, and fire alarm system designs across private and federal projects in the architecture and engineering (A&E) industry. Acting as a key team support, this person ensures that communication flows smoothly, documentation stays on track, and technical teams remain focused on delivering high-quality solutions. The Specialist also engages with local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), helping the team navigate code requirements and secure timely approvals.

Team Integration and Operational Flow

Rather than functioning as a direct assistant, the Fire Protection Specialist Coordinator operates as a hands-on team organizer embedded within the department’s daily rhythm. This role bridges gaps between technical leadership, design teams, and external stakeholders—ensuring that everyone is aligned, informed, and moving forward. From coordinating design milestones and managing documentation workflows to anticipating needs and resolving friction points, the Specialist helps maintain operational clarity and momentum. Their presence enables the department to function as a cohesive unit, with fewer bottlenecks and greater agility across all phases of design and construction.

Key Aspects of the Fire Protection Specialist Role

• Departmental Integration: Serves as the central coordinator within the fire protection department, aligning efforts across technical teams, leadership, and external stakeholders. Maintains visibility into active projects to support prioritization, resource coordination, and timely execution.
• Workflow Coordination: Oversees the movement of design packages, documentation, and approvals through various phases of development and construction.Tracks deadlines, deliverables, and dependencies to ensure projects remain on schedule and teams are informed.

• Communication Facilitation: Acts as a liaison between internal teams and external entities, including clients, contractors, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs). Ensures that updates, decisions, and feedback are clearly conveyed and documented.

• Operational Support: Streamlines internal processes to reduce friction and improve efficiency across the department. Organizes technical reviews, design meetings, and coordination sessions to maintain project momentum.

• Documentation and Compliance: Supports the preparation, organization, and submission of code compliance documentation, permit applications, and technical reports. Ensures all documentation meets regulatory and client standards.

• Problem Anticipation and Resolution: Identifies potential bottlenecks or misalignments early and works proactively to resolve them. Maintains awareness of team dynamics and project flow to support a productive and collaborative work environment.

This is an excellent career opportunity for an experienced, motivated Fire Protection Specialist Coordinator who thrives in a collaborative team environment. The role highlights a customer-focused mindset and a passion for delivering exceptional quality and results on every project. 

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following: 

• Projects workflow within the fire protection department.
• Assist in the design and specification of fire sprinkler and fire alarm systems for private and federal facilities.
• Provide design support via Bluebeam, Microsoft suite
• Attend meetings with the project team, including architects and other engineering disciplines.
• Demonstrate knowledge of NFPA 13, 72, 92, 101, and UFC 3-600-01. 
• Internal verification review of fire sprinkler and fire alarm design complies with local codes, contract documents, NFPA standards and regulations.
• Prepare documentation for owner, general contractor, architectural review.
• Review shop drawings, hydraulic calculations, voltage/ battery calculations, and equipment submittals for compliance with contract documents.
• Perform life safety analysis for federal projects.
• Perform site visits and write field reports, system reports, and building analysis.
• Assist project managers to troubleshoot design and construction challenges.

What you bring to our firm:

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Design or Electrical Engineering and/or 5-7 Years of relevant experience with Fire Protection Systems.
• NICET Level 2 in Fire Alarm Systems or Fire Sprinkler Systems Design required, with Level 3 attainable within 6 months.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in fire protection systems, construction administration, or engineering support
• Familiarity with NFPA codes and standards, including NFPA 13, 72, 101, and UFC 3-600-01
• Experience working with AHJs and navigating permitting processes
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook); experience with Bluebeam is a must; and AutoCAD experience is preferred
• Understanding of fire protection systems and their integration with architectural and mechanical disciplines
• Ability to work collaboratively with engineers, architects, contractors, and regulatory agencies
• Detail-oriented with a proactive approach to problem-solving
• Authorization to work in the United States (required)

Compensation:

The Salary range for this position is $100,000-$129,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

 Featured Benefits: 

• Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives. GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™ 

GFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law. 

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property of Gannett Fleming TranSystems.

Location: Fife, WA

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Employment Status: Full-Time 

Salary Range: $100,000-$129,000

Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location

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