Associate Director - Fire Detection Evacuation & Alarm Systems, Data Centers

Job Description

AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities is seeking for an experienced Associate Director - Fire Detection & Alarm Systems Technical Specialist (Data Centers) at the senior level to join our Fire Detection Engineering team in Bogota, Colombia. This role will be pivotal in designing FADS Systems with a particular focus on Data Center and Mission Critical, with a deep understanding of the demands for scale, speed, and consistency in data center operations.

The responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Design of fire detection and alarm systems for data centers: Development and design of fire detection systems specifically tailored to data centers, including alarm, detection, monitoring, and evacuation systems. Ensuring that designs prioritize reliability, scalability, and efficiency in mission-critical environments.
• Coordination with HVAC, Access Control, Fire Protection and Electrical systems, ensuring their correct integration and joint operation with the Fire Detection and Alarm System.
• Risk analysis and classification of occupancies to define the type of fire protection to implement and the applicable technologies.
• Ability to technically support design decisions.
• Equipment selection and component sizing. Ensure Compliance with Industry Standards: Adhere to industry-specific standards, such as those from Uptime Institute, TIA-942-B, IEEE, IEC, NFPA, and NEC, ensuring all designs meet regulatory and operational guidelines.
• Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Incorporate energy-efficient strategies to minimize consumption and carbon footprint. Optimize renewable energy use, integrate energy storage systems (e.g., battery banks), and implement sustainable design principles.
• Preparation of plant drawings, system architecture, schematic diagrams, cause-and-effect matrix, control single-line diagrams, P&IDs, and installation details for FADS Systems.
• System modeling in Revit, quality review of drawings prepared by modelers.
• Coordination with other disciplines to avoid clashes between elements using Revit and/or Navisworks.
• Review submittals and resolve technical comments from oversight, inspection or competent authorities (AHJ).
• Prepare Design Documentation and Specifications: Create comprehensive technical drawings, specifications, and documentation. Effectively communicate design plans with clients, architects, contractors, and project stakeholders.
• Testing and Commissioning: Supervise the testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems during installation. Verify proper installation and ensure compliance with the design intent.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• BSc. in Electrical or Electronic engineering or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education with 8+ years of professional experience and strong focus on data center infrastructure 
• Proficient in designing data center Fire Detection and Alarm Systems, including Data Center automation, and critical systems integration.
• Extensive knowledge of data center Tier Standard Topology, as defined by Uptime Institute, TIA-942, and other relevant industry standards.
• Strong understanding and knowledge of local and international regulations such as NSR10, NFPA, FM, UL, NEMA, NEC.
• Experience in using design tools and software from fire detection and alarm system manufacturers.
• Must have excellent knowledge about data center TIER Standard Topology as per Uptime Institute, TIA 942, ANSI/BICSI 002, etc.
• Proven ability to review and respond to contractor submittals, including shop drawings, submittals, and RFIs.
• Stay Informed on Data Center Trends: Keep updated on advancements, best practices, and emerging technologies in data center Fire Detection and Alarm Systems, such as technological trends and energy-efficient solutions.
• Prior experience in data center design consultancy or involvement in large-scale data center projects is highly desirable.
• Advanced level of English, written and spoken.

 Preferred Requirements

• Experience with Revit to create 3D BIM models of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems, adhering to all Levels of Development (LOD).
• Manufacturer certifications and NFPA official courses, Certification or diploma in Fire Protection.
• Experience in the integration of multiple systems (detection, suppression, control, climate control, building management).

Additional Information

Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Sponsorship for Colombia work authorization is not available for this position, now or in the future.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.