SCIENTIST - Fire Technology

Southwest Research Institute; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwest Research Institute's Fire Technology Department seeks a Scientist to oversee standard and non-standard fire test programs from start to finish, including pricing, proposals, scheduling, construction, testing and reporting.

You will support business development, interact with clients and regulatory bodies, and contribute to new program areas while ensuring projects meet deadlines and budgets.

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or equivalent scientific field.
• 0-2 years: coursework in chemistry, math and physics; proficient with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint.

Responsibilities

• Perform standard and non-standard fire test programs from start to finish.
• Analyze, interpret and report test results using standardized formats.
• Provide work instructions to technical staff and write proposals for responsibilities.

Skills

Self-motivated

Multi-tasking

Attention to detail

Customer service

Technical writing

Verbal communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

The Fire Technology Department conducts small-scale and large-scale fire testing of items and assemblies for a wide range of industries including commercial construction, marine and automotive. Products are built, instrumented, and evaluated for their fire performance.

Objectives of this Role:

• As a Scientist in the Fire Technology Department, you will perform standard and non-standard fire test programs from start to finish.
• Perform all aspects of fire test programs including pricing, proposal writing, scheduling, construction, testing and reporting.
• Provide support for business development and market SwRI services to current and prospective customers.
• Be a problem-solver that exercises creativity in developing premier solutions for clients in government and industry.
• Work individually and in a team to ensure client goals are met.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

• Perform routine scientific investigations requiring application of standard fire testing techniques and procedures.
• Analyze, interpret and report test results using standardized formats.
• Provide work instructions to technical support staff.
• Write proposals for assigned areas of responsibilities and interact with clients, fire and code officials, and regulatory bodies.
• Ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Maintain and expand volume of work.
• Build new program areas consistent with or related to fire research and testing industry.
• Make suggestions for process improvement.
• Prioritize workload to meet project deadlines.
• Demonstrate proficiency in written and verbal communication and in the use of computer software and hardware typically used in the field of fire research and testing.
• Troubleshoot and make minor repairs on test equipment.
• Must be able to wear a respirator or PAPR.
• Occasional assignments in moderate to high temperatures and smoky environment.

Requirements:

• Requires a Bachelors degree in Chemistry or equivalent scientific degree field.
• 0-2 years: Must have coursework in chemistry, math and physics. Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience in project management and fire testing or laboratory work a plus.
• Self-motivated, ability to multi-task, pay attention to detail, be diligent, exercise good judgment, work independently and as a team member. Able to interact with Client's and provide a high level of customer service.
• Excellent technical writing and verbal communication skills, good organizational and time management skills.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements:

Must be a U.S. person (i.e., U.S. citizen, non-U.S. citizen national, lawful permanent resident, asylee, or refugee) due to ITAR work in section.

For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .
For benefits information at all other locations, click here .

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.