Senior Smoke Ventilation Designer / Estimator

About the Company My client is a specialist provider of life safety solutions, delivering the design, installation, and maintenance of advanced smoke control and fire safety systems across major residential and mixed‑use developments throughout London and the South East. They work on large‑scale, technically challenging projects involving complex smoke control systems — including mechanical smoke extraction, smoke shafts, stair pressurisation, and natural AOV systems integrated with wider fire alarm and life safety systems. Due to continued growth within their smoke control division, they are now seeking an experienced Senior Smoke Ventilation Designer / Estimator to join their team in Upminster. The Role This position focuses on the design and estimation of mechanical and natural smoke ventilation systems for residential and mixed‑use buildings. You will be responsible for interpreting fire strategies, architectural drawings, and CFD modelling outputs to produce compliant smoke control system designs and accurate project costings. The role also plays a key part in supporting projects from Gateway 2 submission through to installation. Key Responsibilities System Design Design mechanical smoke extract systems including corridor ventilation, smoke shafts, and stair pressurisation systems. Design natural smoke ventilation (AOV) systems for residential buildings. Review CFD modelling outputs and fire engineering reports. Develop compliant smoke ventilation solutions aligned with fire strategy documentation. Produce design drawings, schematics, and equipment layouts using AutoCAD or similar. Prepare cause-and-effect strategies for system integration with fire alarm systems. Size fans, dampers, vents, and extract systems in accordance with relevant standards. Gateway 2 Compliance Support documentation for Gateway 2 submissions under the Building Safety regime. Ensure designs align with approved fire strategies and regulatory requirements. Liaise with fire engineers and consultants to resolve compliance queries. Estimating & Tendering Produce detailed cost estimates and quotations. Carry out material take-offs and prepare equipment schedules. Liaise with manufacturers and suppliers for pricing and technical data. Prepare technical submissions and tender documentation. Technical Coordination Liaise with architects, fire engineers, consultants, and contractors. Provide technical support to internal teams. Attend design coordination meetings as required. Assist with value engineering and alternative system proposals. Site Surveys Conduct site surveys and inspections when required. Assess existing systems and develop upgrade/replacement design proposals. Technical Standards A strong working knowledge of the following is essential: BS 7346-7 – Functional recommendations & calculation methods BS 7346-8 – Planning, installation, commissioning, maintenance BS EN (phone number removed) – Natural smoke & heat exhaust ventilators BS EN (phone number removed) – Powered smoke & heat exhaust ventilators BS EN (phone number removed) – Pressure differential systems (stair pressurisation) BS EN (phone number removed) – Smoke control dampers BS 9991 – Fire safety in residential design & management Approved Document B – Building Regulations fire safety guidance Requirements Essential Proven experience designing mechanical smoke ventilation systems. Strong understanding of smoke shafts, corridor ventilation, and extract systems. Ability to interpret CFD modelling outputs and fire engineering reports. Experience producing estimates/quotations for smoke control systems. Ability to read architectural drawings & fire strategies. Competent in AutoCAD or similar packages. Strong communication and organisational skills. Desirable Experience supporting Gateway 2 submissions. Experience designing large residential or high‑rise smoke control systems. Knowledge of smoke ventilation control panels and control logic. Experience with fire alarm integration and cause & effect creation. Familiarity with Simpro or similar estimating software. What’s On Offer 28 days holiday  Pension (auto‑enrolment) Company vehicle Company phone Access to Bupa Employee Assistance Programme Location The role is primarily based at the Upminster office, with occasional site visits as required