Fire Protection Engineer (M.S./Ph.D.)

Exponent; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) employer contribution of 7%

Annual bonus

Flexible work hours

Bi-weekly bonuses for high intensity efforts

Job summary

Exponent is seeking a Fire Protection Engineer (M.S./Ph.D.) in the Thermal Sciences Practice, located in Chicago, IL. Responsibilities include evaluating fire protection systems, reviewing applicable codes, and preparing technical reports. The role demands expertise in thermodynamics and related areas.

With a competitive salary range of USD $110,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year, Exponent also provides bi-weekly bonuses and a generous 401(k) employer contribution. Join us for a flexible, engaging work environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Fire Protection Engineering or M.S. with 3-5 years of work experience.
• Strong background in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate performance of fire protection systems.
• Review codes and standards for fire protection.
• Conduct assessments of material flammability.
• Plan experimental test programs and perform engineering analysis.

Skills

Strong technical background in thermodynamics

Heat transfer

Fluid mechanics

Outstanding verbal communication skills

Outstanding written communication skills

Hands-on experience executing experimental programs

Fire protection system design

Experience with NFPA codes

Education

Ph.D. in Fire Protection Engineering

M.S. plus 3-5 years of related work experience

Job description

Position Overview

Fire Protection Engineer (M.S./Ph.D.) in the Thermal Sciences Practice. Locations include Bowie, MD; Chicago, IL; Warrenville, IL; Menlo Park, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Natick, MA; Atlanta, GA.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluating the performance of fire protection, fire detection, and life safety systems
• Reviewing fire protection codes and standards
• Conducting laboratory assessments of material flammability
• Planning and executing experimental test programs
• Performing engineering calculations and analysis
• Conducting fieldwork
• Preparing proposals and technical reports, and presenting findings to clients

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Fire Protection Engineering or M.S. plus 3-5 years of related work experience
• Strong technical background in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and combustion
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
• Hands‑on experience executing experimental programs
• Experience in fire protection system design, installation, inspection, testing, and maintenance (plus)
• Experience with NFPA and ICC codes and standards preferred
• Strong desire and ability to tackle a wide variety of problems within and outside the area of expertise

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications (not restricted to 1 page).

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range: USD $110,000.00 - USD $130,000.00 per year. Total compensation includes base salary, bi‑weekly bonuses for high‑intensity efforts, annual bonus, and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

Benefits information and equal‑opportunity statement are available on the Exponent Life@Exponent page. Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please email [e-mail].

Work Environment

Employees engage in‑person in the office unless traveling for client work or other business activities. The firm offers a flexible, agile work style and working hours to accommodate personal schedules.

Job Locations

• US-MD-Bowie
• US-GA-Atlanta
• US-IL-Chicago
• US-CA-Los Angeles
• US-MA-Natick
• US-CA-Menlo Park
• US-IL-Warrenville