Engineering Manager (FIRE)

At VVB Engineering, we deliver sustainable mechanical, electrical, and telecommunication engineering solutions with specialist agility and robust processes. With long-standing experience across Rail, Highways, Power, and Tunnels, we are committed to serving our clients, our people, and our environment.

Our CORE values shape our behaviours and define our ethos:

• O – Opportunity & Ownership
• R – Responsibility & Respect
• E – Excellence & End Result Focus

About the Role

Responsible for all design and engineering activities within the Fire sector, the Engineering Manager ensures technical excellence, team leadership, and project integration across design, procurement, construction, and commissioning. Working closely with Project Managers and Heads of Discipline, they oversee internal and supply chain teams to deliver safe, high-quality, and value-driven outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Providing leadership in all facets of engineering and design activities within their sector, to deliver the projects to meet cost, time and quality requirements.
• Ensures that all projects are in compliance with VVB’s Design Management and Assurance Procedures and Quality Management System.
• Ensures design reviews are carried out in-line with current standards to ensure buildability and constructability. That any weaknesses or errors are identified in the design that could jeopardise the functionality and ensures HSE best practices are always followed.
• Developing and managing effective communication and liaison with all relevant internal and external stakeholders to ensure that requirements are identified, assessed, and appropriately integrated into the project.
• Ensure compliance with the relevant BS EN ISO standards.
• Ensure compliance with Building Regulation Approved Document B.
• Ensure compliance with FIA, LPCB or FIRAS specifications as required by the project.
• Engage with the Clients Fire Officer to ensure compliance and smooth delivery of projects.
• Liaise with local Fire Brigade as required to deliver compliant and accepted projects.
• Carries out CAT 1 or 2 design checks.
• Acts as the Design Manager on smaller projects as required.

Additional Responsibilities

• Day to day functional management of engineers and designers supporting the delivery of projects within their sector, through the use of a matrix organisation chart.
• Act as a VVB Mentor for Engineering Graduates and Apprentices across their sector.
• Supports the Head of Fire and Engineering and Head of Engineering and Design in annual performance reviews of the engineers and designers in accordance with approved procedures.

Skills & Experience

• Broad engineering leadership across multiple disciplines and project phases.
• MEPHFC systems expertise and design assurance knowledge.
• Skilled in planning, budgeting, and performance reporting.
• Proficient in 2D/3D CAD, BIM (min Level 2), CDM 2015 compliance, and MS Office.
• Strong client/stakeholder management and site issue resolution.
• Knowledge of design, procurement, installation, and commissioning processes.
• Sustainability and lifecycle design awareness.
• Exposure to DSEAR, ATEX, and hazardous area standards.
• Experience with maintenance-focused projects.

Qualifications

• Accredited Engineering degree; Chartered status.
• HSE training (SMSTS/IOSH), CSCS (AQP/PQP), Full UK driving licence.
• LPCB Basic & Intermediate Design for Sprinkler.
• FIA BS5839-1 Advanced Fire Detection & Units 3-5.
• BAFSA or LPCB – Inspection, Testing and Commissioning Sprinkler Systems.
• Project Management (APM/PRINCE2), NEBOSH, TWC, AP (Lifting/Elec/Mech).

Experience

• Proven engineering/project leadership in design, T&C, and handover.
• Roles held: Design Engineer, Lead Engineer, Project/Design/Commissioning Manager.
• Strong client-facing and turnkey project delivery background.

VVB is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.