Lead Fire Engineer

About the Role

At Henderson, we're about more than just buildings—we're about the people, experiences, and longevity of a building. As a Lead Fire Engineer in our Health sector, you will design advanced building systems, prepare design documents, and perform engineering calculations in coordination with project teams and multiple disciplines. This role involves leadership, mentorship, and direct supervision of design staff, as well as involvement in business development, corporate operations, and risk management activities.

You'll work on projects for some of the biggest names in mission-critical, higher education, sports, healthcare, grocery, restaurant, and retail sectors. Henderson is an ESOP company, meaning each employee-owner plays an essential role in our mission to lead the industry in innovation, sustainability, and client experience.

Responsibilities

• Prepares or directs the preparation of simple to complex design documents, system layouts, detailed drawings, schematics, and specifications.
• Leads project and design efforts from concept design through completion.
• Reviews shop drawings for conformance to plans and specifications.
• Performs research and makes recommendations on the feasibility of systems or equipment.
• Evaluates products for their application and produces solutions to complex engineering problems.
• Ensures production of drawings, specifications, reports, and analyses meet scope, schedule, cost, and quality requirements.
• Advises and mentors less experienced designers and engineers, providing oversight and technical guidance.
• Makes recommendations on project staffing and directs activities of technical and administrative staff.
• Assists in establishing and implementing goals, policies, objectives, and standards at the practice and/or sector level.
• Develops, establishes, and maintains relationships with strategic partners and customers to expand business opportunities.
• Participates in client, company, and industry events to build and maintain professional relationships.
• Communicates with clients to develop and coordinate requirements and scope of work, maintaining proactive communication throughout the project cycle.
• Visits job sites to verify existing conditions and observe construction progress, resolving conflicts as needed.
• Identifies and fills gaps in industry and discipline knowledge, staying updated on emerging technologies, codes, and standards.
• Performs project management responsibilities, including managing emails, coordinating scope and schedule, and ensuring project quality.
• Acts as an Engineer of Record (EOR) when required, with additional oversight and accountability for signing and sealing projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of engineering (e.g., mechanical, electrical, fire protection, or architectural) and 9 years of relevant experience, or 10 years of experience with a high school diploma or equivalent.
• PE license required (may count toward 1 year of relevant experience).
• Additional certifications (e.g., BEMP, CPD, CDP, NICET, RCDD) required; sustainability certifications (e.g., LEED, WELL) preferred.
• Completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam preferred.
• Advanced knowledge of engineering design, A&E industry, codes, design guides, and standards.
• Proficiency in Revit and Bluebeam Revu required.
• High technical aptitude and ability to learn, understand, and utilize various systems and processes.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to mentor and train others.
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently, adapt to changing priorities, and manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and engineering design software applicable to the discipline.

Pay

Individual salaries may vary based on geographic cost of labor and other factors unrelated to the applicant’s identity. The following ranges reflect base salaries for this role:

• Denver: $113,520 - $170,280
• Las Vegas: $108,360 - $162,540
• Los Angeles: $119,712 - $179,568
• New York: $125,904 - $188,856
• Washington DC: $119,712 - $179,568

Benefits

• Industry-leading 401K match and profit sharing.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• Paid training for professional development.
• Performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive insurance (health, dental, vision, life, disability).
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and sick leave.
• Paid parental leave and volunteer time.
• Flexible work hours and casual dress code.
• Financial wellness and coaching program.

Culture

• People-first culture with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and client experience.
• Inclusive workplace that encourages bringing your full self to work.
• Opportunities for professional and personal growth.
• Collaborative environment with a focus on mentorship and teamwork.
• Regular company events, including happy hours and volunteer opportunities.