Fire Protection Design Intern

Fire Protection Design Intern

Location: Stockbridge, GA (On-Site)
Employment Type: Full-Time (MUST HAVE CAD EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION)
Compensation: $15 - $20 per hour
Department: Design / Engineering

About Us

Patriot Fire Protection, Inc. is a trusted leader in fire life-safety services with over 34 years of experience protecting lives and property. We take pride in developing high-caliber talented individuals who represent our CORE values: Culture, Opportunity, Retention and Excellence. Join a growing organization that invests in your future and helps you build a meaningful, long-term career.

Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated Fire Protection Design Intern who is eager to learn and grow into a professional Fire Sprinkler Designer. This role is ideal for individuals with existing CAD skills who are looking to build a career in the fire protection industry. Under the guidance of senior designers and project managers, you will first learn about fire protection specifically fire sprinkler systems and then learn skills to support design activities for commercial and industrial fire sprinkler systems.

This is a paid full-time, entry-level role with hands-on training, mentorship, and a clear path to NICET certification and full designer responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of detailed sprinkler system layouts using AutoCAD or similar software


• Perform hydraulic calculations under supervision


• Review project specifications, construction documents, and applicable codes (NFPA standards, building codes, etc.)


• Coordinate with project managers, installation teams, and field leadership


• Conduct site visits as needed to obtain measurements, verify conditions, and support design accuracy


• Maintain organized project files and ensure design deliverables are completed on time


• Continuously expand technical knowledge of fire protection systems

Required Qualifications

• Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD preferred)


• Strong mathematical, spatial, and analytical skills


• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings


• Highly motivated, quick learner, and strong attention to detail


• Excellent communication and teamwork capabilities


• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous coursework or experience in drafting, engineering, or construction


• Understanding of fire protection or building systems


• Interest in pursuing NICET certification in Water-Based Systems Layout

What We Offer

• Comprehensive on-the-job training and career advancement opportunities


• Support for NICET training and certification


• Team-focused environment with strong leadership support

Career Path

This internship is designed to transition into a full-time Fire Sprinkler Designer role or CAD Project Manager role upon successful performance and training achievements. Starting off as an Intern Designer and working under Fire Protection Designer.

NICET Water-Based Systems Layout Requirements

NICET Level

Typical Role

Required Relevant Experience

Notes

Level I

Entry Drafter / Design Assistant

~6 months documented experience

Can perform basic design work under supervision

Level II

Sprinkler Designer

~2 years

Can prepare design documents with limited supervision

Level III

Lead Designer / Project Designer

~5 years

Can supervise others, interface with AHJs

Level IV

Senior Designer / Engineering Manager

~10 years

Over design department & technical authority