Senior Plumbing Designer

Position Summary

The Senior Plumbing Designer is responsible for the successful planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects while providing leadership in plumbing and fire protection design. This role leads plumbing and fire protection design on project teams, manages and directs the work of assisting plumbing designers, and directly interacts with clients to support projects and existing relationships. This role leads project delivery through the development of construction documents, engineering calculations, system evaluations, and coordination with internal and external project stakeholders. The Senior Plumbing Designer works under the supervision of the Director of Engineering and respective Studio Director and collaborates closely with project teams to deliver high-quality, integrated, code-compliant design solutions.

Success in this role requires strong technical aptitude, effective communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting project schedules and quality standards. The Senior Plumbing Designer is responsible for the successful execution of projects through collaboration, continuous learning, and a commitment to client service.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute the design of plumbing systems for new construction, renovation, and facility improvement projects.
• Lead and execute the preparation of fire protection performance/bid documents and specifications.
• Prepare engineering calculations, including plumbing system sizing and related analyses.
• Participate in sustainable design initiatives and perform analyses related to plumbing system performance.
• Conduct existing system assessments and evaluations to support project planning and design.
• Assist with construction administration activities, including responding to contractor questions and reviewing project documentation.
• Support the development and maintenance of client relationships through responsive communication and professional service.
• Review work of other plumbing designers for adherence to code requirements and quality standards.
• Mentor less-experienced plumbing design staff.

Key Outcomes

• Lead and deliver accurate, complete, and code-compliant plumbing designs and fire protection performance documents.
• Meet project milestones and deadlines while maintaining quality standards.
• Effectively communicate project objectives, challenges, and solutions with clients, field personnel, and project team members.
• Drive positive project outcomes through design team and client collaboration, sound decision-making, and proactive problem-solving.
• Support client satisfaction through dependable project execution and professional service.

BIM Modeling & Construction Documentation

• Develop construction documents using Revit and other design software tools.
• Produce coordinated design documentation that aligns with project requirements, applicable codes, and firm standards.
• Mentor and direct other plumbing designers in construction document production.
• Maintain and grow an understanding of building systems, construction methods, building materials, and document sequencing to support successful project delivery.
• Coordinate with internal design teams to ensure complete and coordinated project documents.

Project Coordination & Collaboration

• Work closely with clients, project managers, engineers, designers, and field personnel throughout the project lifecycle.
• Communicate effectively in both written and verbal formats.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills while working in a collaborative team environment.
• Organize and prioritize workload effectively to support multiple concurrent projects.
• Apply analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to project challenges and design solutions.

Continuous Learning & Professional Growth

• Continue developing technical knowledge of plumbing and fire protection systems, building codes, regulations, industry standards, and design best practices.
• Expand proficiency in design technologies and project delivery processes.
• Seek opportunities for professional growth and increased responsibility within the organization.
• Develop and maintain relationships with manufacturers, vendors, and designers in the plumbing design industry.

Qualifications & Skills

• 10+ years experience in plumbing and fire protection design and engineering.
• Proven track record of leading design and execution of plumbing and fire protection systems in commercial markets.
• Proficiency with Autodesk Revit, Bluebeam, and Microsoft 365 applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and OneNote.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong planning, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Registered Designer of Engineering Systems – Plumbing (per Wisconsin State Legislature Chapter 443).
• Certified in Plumbing Design (CPD) certification from the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE).

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to move throughout construction sites at various stages of development without assistance.
• Ability to perform field observations and site visits in varying weather and environmental conditions.
• Work is performed in both office and field environments.
• Occasional travel may be required.
• Occasional work outside normal business hours may be necessary to support project schedules and client needs.
• The salary range for this position is $100,000 to $155,000 based on skills and experience