Fire & Life Safety (FLS) Engineer

Company Overview:

Join a highly reputable AEC consultancy with over 40 years of experience in delivering iconic projects across hospitality, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use sectors. With expertise in sustainable design, construction supervision, and project management, this firm is a leader in the field, renowned for comprehensive and visionary approaches to high-impact developments.

Project Overview:

This prestigious heritage project in Riyadh is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative and targets Gold LEED certification. The development includes mixed-use buildings, academies, a traditional Najdi-style local mosque, a digital art museum, and a unique mud-brick cinema with underground parking. This project combines state-of-the-art facilities with traditional design elements, embodying cultural authenticity and modern sustainability goals.

Job Summary:

An FLS (Fire and Life Safety) Engineer primary responsibility is to ensure that all construction activities and installed systems comply with relevant fire and life safety codes and standards. The role involves a mix of design review, site supervision, testing, and documentation to mitigate fire risks and ensure the safety of occupants. The FLS Engineer shall be responsible for designing, planning, and coordinating fire safety systems and strategies in Mixed-use building projects. This role involves ensuring all Contractor’s submittals comply with international and local fire and life safety codes and standards while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to integrate FLS systems seamlessly into the building’s overall design.

Key Responsibilities

• Review the contractor's fire and life safety designs, drawings, and calculations (e.g., occupancy load, egress plans, fire separation) to ensure compliance with local building and fire codes, including NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), Saudi Building Code (SBC), and any other relevant international standards.
• Ensure that all designs meet Stay up-to-date on changes to FLS regulations and update designs to remain in compliance.
• Conduct regular site inspections to monitor the progress of FLS system installations, verify proper implementation according to approved designs, and resolve any non-conformities or design conflicts that arise during construction.
• Evaluate potential safety challenges based on building design, occupancy, and materials used, implementing design solutions to address risks.
• Analyze FLS system requirements based on the specific building type and occupancy classification, ensuring all critical safety aspects are addressed
• Work closely with architecture, mechanical and electrical design teams to ensure FLS systems are properly integrated with other building systems.
• Facilitate communication with project teams to address any design conflicts or adjustments needed for FLS systems
• Supervise and document the functional and performance testing and commissioning of all FLS systems, including fire alarm systems, fire suppression systems, smoke control systems, and emergency lighting.
• Liaise with the client, project management team, contractors, and local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), such as the Civil Defense, to secure necessary permits, approvals, and final inspections.
• Provide technical guidance and support to the site team, address on-site technical problems, and propose solutions in line with project specifications and safety regulations.
• Prepare detailed reports (as required), including progress updates, inspection results, test documentation, and compliance certificates.
• Participate in fire risk assessments and hazard analyses to identify potential risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior engineers on fire safety design best practices and code compliance.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• Valid Saudi Council of Engineering (SCE) membership.
• Minimum of 10 years of Relevant experience in fire and life safety design and site supervision, preferably within a consultancy or design environment.
• Professional certifications such as Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) or a Professional Engineer (PE) license are often preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of FLS codes and standards (e.g., NFPA, SBC, IBC), as well as proficiency in relevant design software like AutoCAD and Revit.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential for effective coordination and reporting.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment