Codes and Standards Specialist

National Fire Sprinkler Association; Linthicum (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Fire Sprinkler Association seeks a Codes and Standards Specialist to advance acceptance and proper use of fire sprinkler systems through engagement with model codes, standards bodies, and code officials nationwide.

In this role you will represent NFSA on technical committees, conduct in-depth research, develop written materials, and deliver training that directly impacts public safety, with a focus on water-based fire sprinkler systems.

Qualifications

• 3+ years as authority having jurisdiction or code official.
• ICC certification: Commercial Fire Sprinkler Plans Examiner or Commercial Fire Sprinkler Inspector
• NICET water-based layout Level 1

Responsibilities

• Represent NFSA on codes and standards committees (NFPA, ICC, IBC, IFC).
• Research, analyze, and interpret fire protection codes and standards for water-based sprinkler systems.
• Prepare technical position papers, guidance documents, and educational resources.
• Develop and deliver training programs for code officials, AHJs, fire departments, contractors, and building owners.
• Build and maintain relationships with AHJs, elected officials, industry partners, and allied organizations.

Skills

Code interpretation

Stakeholder engagement

Technical writing

Public speaking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or construction

Job description

Job Type

Full-time

Description

The National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) is seeking a Codes and Standards Specialist to join our Codes, Standards, and Public Fire Protection Department. This position plays a critical role in advancing the acceptance and proper use of fire sprinkler systems through engagement with model codes, standards bodies, and code officials nationwide.

This role is ideal for a fire protection professional who enjoys working with people, influencing outcomes through collaboration, and translating complex technical requirements into clear, persuasive, and actionable guidance. You will represent NFSA on technical committees, conduct in-depth research on codes and standards, develop written and educational materials, and deliver training programs that directly impact public safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent NFSA on codes and standards technical committees (e.g., NFPA, ICC, IBC, IFC, and related bodies).
• Research, analyze, and interpret fire protection codes and standards, with a focus on water-based fire sprinkler systems.
• Prepare technical position papers, guidance documents, articles, and educational resources for industry stakeholders.
• Develop and deliver professional learning, training, and outreach programs for code officials, AHJs, fire departments, contractors, and building owners.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), elected officials, industry partners, and allied organizations.
• Support NFSA’s advocacy efforts by promoting consistent, technically sound adoption of fire sprinkler provisions in model codes.
• Attend meetings, conferences, exhibitions, and training events (some travel required).
• Collaborate closely with internal teams to ensure alignment with NFSA policies, procedures, and strategic priorities.

What Success Looks Like In This Role

• You are seen as a trusted technical resource by code officials and industry stakeholders.
• You communicate with a persuasive, teaching-oriented style, helping others understand why fire sprinkler requirements matter—not just what the code says.
• You thrive in a fast-paced, relationship-driven environment with multiple projects happening at once.
• You follow established guidelines and processes while building consensus and involving others in decision-making.
• You lead by example, are willing to roll up your sleeves, and consistently follow up to ensure high-quality results.

Why NFSA?

At NFSA, our mission is simple and powerful: to protect lives and property from fire through the widespread acceptance and use of fire sprinkler systems. Every code provision you help shape, every official you educate, and every training you deliver contributes directly to safer buildings and stronger communities. If you are passionate about fire protection, believe in collaboration over confrontation, and want your work to make a tangible public safety impact, this role offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of fire protection nationwide.

Requirements

The required experience for this position has at least two of the following:

• 3+ years of being an authority having jurisdiction, code official, or similar.
• ICC Certified as Commercial Fire Sprinkler Plans Examiner or Commercial Fire Sprinkler Inspector
• NICET water-based layout Level 1

Preferred Experience

The preferred experience for this position has at least three of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or construction related field
• 3-5 Years in the ICC and/or NFPA model code development process
• Current or previous ICC and/or NFPA technical committee experience
• ICC certified as a Certified Building Official (CBO), Certified Fire Inspector (CFI), or Master Code Professional (MCP)
• NICET water-based layout Level 2 or above

Preferred Location

Preferred Location: Baltimore, MD (NFSA Headquarters) – Remote work sites may be considered for highly qualified candidates.