Fire Systems Design Manager

Are you a Fire Systems Design Manager with experience of working on major infrastructure projects?

Rate: £550 – £650 per day (Inside IR35)
Contract: Initial contract through to December 2027
Location: North Acton, London
Working Pattern: Hybrid – Minimum 3 days per week in the office, 2 days working from home
Sector: Major Infrastructure / Construction / Rail
 
Job Role
We are currently seeking an experienced Fire Systems Design Manager to join a high-profile team delivering critical systems across the prestigious HS2 programme. This is an excellent opportunity for a technically strong and proactive design professional to take ownership of the BMS and Fire Systems package across multiple assets on one of the UK's largest infrastructure projects.
 
The successful candidate will bring strong proven experience managing complex design packages, and specialist knowledge of Fire Systems, including fire detection, gas suppression, life safety systems, and fire control interfaces.
 
This role requires a hands-on individual who is comfortable driving design delivery, managing subcontractors and suppliers, resolving technical challenges, and working collaboratively with package managers and project stakeholders.
 
Key Responsibilities
·Lead the design delivery of BMS and Fire Systems packages across multiple HS2 assets.
·Manage and coordinate subcontractor and supplier design activities.
·Ensure all design deliverables are produced in line with project programmes, specifications, and regulatory requirements.
·Work closely with Package Managers, Construction Teams, Consultants, and Client representatives.
·Review and approve technical submissions, drawings, calculations, and design documentation.
·Drive design coordination and interface management across multiple disciplines.
·Identify and resolve technical and design-related issues throughout the project lifecycle.
·Support commissioning, testing, validation, and handover activities where required.
·Manage design changes and ensure compliance with project standards and governance processes.
 
Fire Systems Experience Required
A key requirement for this role is strong experience with Fire Systems design and delivery, including:
·Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
·Gas Suppression Systems
·Aspirating Smoke Detection Systems
·Emergency Voice Communication Systems
·Fire Monitoring and Control Systems
·Cause & Effect Programming
·Life Safety Systems Integration
 
Essential Requirements
·Proven experience as a Design Manager, Design Lead, or similar role.
·Demonstrable experience delivering Fire Systems packages on major construction or infrastructure projects.
·Strong understanding of design management and design assurance processes.
·Experience managing subcontractor and supplier design deliverables.
·Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
·Ability to work in a fast-paced, complex project environment.
·Proactive, hands-on approach with a strong focus on delivery.
 
What's on Offer?
·£550 – £650 per day (Inside IR35)
·Hybrid working – 3 days minimum in the office, 2 days WFH
·North Acton-based project office
·Initial contract through to December 2027
·Opportunity to work on one of the UK's most significant infrastructure programmes
·Long-term project security and career-enhancing experience