Fire Alarm Detection Engineer

Who we are..

VVB delivers sustainable mechanical, electrical and telecommunication engineering solutions with expertise and long-standing experience across Rail, Highways, Power, and Tunnels. Combining robust processes with specialist agility. Our approach to projects always takes into account the best interests of our clients, our people and our environment. 

At VVB, our CORE values shape our behaviour and are apparent in everything we do. Not only are these values central to the entire VVB ethos, but each letter also represents a pillar of our company vision. /

C – Care & Collaboration

O – Opportunity & Ownership

R – Responsibility & Respect

E – Excellence & End Result Focus

About the Role:
We are looking for a dedicated Fire Alarm & Detection Systems Engineer to manage the design and construction of Fire Alarm and Detection (FAD) services on medium to large-scale infrastructure projects. This position involves design reviews, compliance assurance, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to deliver projects that meet the highest safety and technical standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and verification of Fire Alarm & Detection Systems in compliance with relevant British Standards (e.g., BS 5839 suite).
• Conduct technical reviews of designs prepared by MEP consultants/contractors to ensure safety, compliance, and constructability.
• Develop and manage the creation of complex Fire Alarm Cause & Effects documents, integrating third-party interfaces.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to address interface issues and ensure systems are fully coordinated.
• Provide technical expertise in fire detection systems, gas suppression systems, aspirating smoke detection, and control panels.
• Promote standardisation and value engineering initiatives where applicable.
• Work closely with accreditation bodies (e.g., BRE Global) to maintain compliance with certification requirements.
• Support the project lifecycle, including design, procurement, installation, and certification phases.
• Develop and maintain effective communication with clients and stakeholders to meet project goals.

Line Management Duties:

• Support the development and training of team members to ensure skill enhancement and compliance with health and safety policies.
• Familiarise and engage with the Notify system for reporting health and safety matters.
• Maintain awareness and adherence to information security and quality standards.

Person Specification:

Technical Skills & Knowledge (Essential):

• Comprehensive knowledge of Fire Alarm & Detection standards, including BS 5839, BS5266, and related documents.
• Proficiency in designing and commissioning Fire Alarm & Detection Systems, gas suppression systems, and aspirating smoke detection systems.
• Strong project management skills and expertise in using CAD/BIM software for design purposes.
• Ability to develop Cause & Effects documents and resolve complex coordination challenges.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Qualifications (Essential):

• FIA Fire Detection and Alarm Design certification or equivalent (e.g., FIA Units 1–6).
• CSCS/ECS Management Card.
• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., IFE, IFSM).
• Full UK Driving License.

Experience (Essential):

• Design of Fire Alarm & Detection Systems in the Rail sector.
• Managing designs from concept to installation and certification.
• Previous experience in similar roles involving design, programme management, and stakeholder coordination.

Why Join Us?

• Work on transformative projects in the Rail, Highways, and Power Infrastructure sectors.
• Be part of a collaborative team that values technical innovation and excellence.
• Access ongoing professional development opportunities, including support for professional accreditation.

VVB values the benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to treating all prospective and current employees with dignity regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnerships, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. All employees must demonstrate commitment and enthusiasm in promoting the principles of equality in employment and service delivery.