Senior Fire Protection Engineer - Data Center

About the role

Join Olsson's dedicated Data Center Design team as a Senior Fire Protection Engineer working on on-site projects. This role involves overseeing the design, development, and implementation of fire protection systems for mission-critical facilities, including hyperscale data centers and secure government or corporate data centers. As a key member of a multidisciplinary team, you will be responsible for ensuring fire safety standards are met through innovative, reliable, and code-compliant solutions. The position offers an opportunity to work on complex projects that require technical expertise, leadership, and collaboration with various stakeholders. You will play a vital role in delivering high-quality fire protection designs that support the safety and security of critical infrastructure.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead the design, development, and review of fire protection systems tailored for secure, mission-critical environments such as hyperscale data centers and government facilities.
• Develop detailed fire suppression, alarm, detection, and life safety system designs that meet or exceed client expectations and comply with all relevant codes and standards, including NFPA, IBC, IFC, and UFCs.
• Serve as the technical authority on fire protection issues for assigned projects, providing guidance and expertise to project teams and clients.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams - including electrical, mechanical, security, and structural engineers - to ensure integrated and cohesive system designs.
• Review and approve design documents, calculations, and specifications to ensure accuracy, safety, and compliance.
• Mentor junior engineers and support internal training initiatives to foster professional growth within the team.
• Assist in preparing proposals, scope definitions, and project budgets, contributing to business development efforts.
• Travel to project sites or other Olsson offices as needed, approximately 15-25% of the time, to oversee installation, conduct site inspections, or facilitate client meetings.
• Stay current with evolving fire safety codes, standards, and best practices relevant to high-security and data center environments.
• Support project managers in scheduling, resource planning, and quality assurance processes to ensure timely project delivery.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• A Professional Engineer (PE) license is required; Fire Protection Engineer (FPE) license is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in fire protection engineering, with a focus on data centers, government facilities, or other secure environments.
• Extensive knowledge of NFPA standards, IBC, IFC, UFCs, and other relevant codes and standards.
• Proven experience designing fire suppression, detection, and alarm systems for complex, high-security facilities.
• Proficiency with design and modeling software such as REVIT, AutoSPRINK, HydraCAD, or similar tools.
• Strong understanding of fire safety principles, system integration, and code compliance.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to collaborate effectively with clients, contractors, and internal teams.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, with experience mentoring junior staff and managing project tasks.
• Ability to work on-site at various locations and travel as required.
• Knowledge of security and life safety considerations specific to hyperscale data centers is a plus.
• Familiarity with project management processes and tools.

Nice to have

• Experience mentoring or training junior engineers.
• Background working on government or military projects involving ITAR compliance.
• Additional certifications related to fire protection or security systems.

Skills & tools

• Deep understanding of fire protection engineering principles and best practices.
• Proficiency in design and modeling software such as REVIT, AutoSPRINK, HydraCAD.
• Knowledge of relevant codes and standards (NFPA, IBC, IFC, UFC).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to interpret complex technical documents and specifications.

Practical notes

• Olsson offers a competitive benefits package, including a 401(k) match and support for career development through tailored growth paths.
• The position may include flexible work arrangements, depending on project needs and location.
• Employees are encouraged to participate in wellness programs aimed at promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• Full-time staff are eligible for comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as paid time off and holidays.
• The company emphasizes a collaborative and inclusive work environment, valuing diversity and innovation.
• Candidates should be prepared for occasional travel to project sites or client meetings, approximately 15-25% of the time.
• Olsson is committed to equal employment opportunity and welcomes applications from qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, military status, or any other protected class.

About the company

Roots trace to Swedish lineage, bearing a common family name tied to Olof. Leadership rests with Dan Olsson, guiding a group under Stena Sphere. Public figures shape its identity, from artists and athletes to transport specialists. Range spans maritime operations, business ventures, and creative fields. Experience runs deep across generations. Commitment exists in community roles and civic duties. Current members carry a legacy of entrepreneurship and service, reflecting diverse skills that continue to drive long term growth and stability.