Lead Fire Protection Engineer: A Critical Role in Construction Safety

The construction industry relies on skilled professionals to ensure the safety and integrity of buildings. A Lead Fire Protection Engineer plays a pivotal role in this process, providing technical guidance and leadership in the design and implementation of passive fire protection systems. This article explores the responsibilities, qualifications, and benefits of this crucial position, with a focus on opportunities at companies like Hilti.

What Does a Lead Fire Protection Engineer Do?

A Lead Fire Protection Engineer is responsible for overseeing all aspects of fire protection engineering judgments and providing technical expertise to designers, inspectors, and installers of firestop systems. Key responsibilities include:

• Team Leadership: Mentoring and developing a team of fire protection engineers, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Project Collaboration: Working directly with architects, engineers, contractors, and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) to deliver passive fire protection solutions for major projects across North America.
• Technical Expertise: Providing support to field sales and technical teams with code interpretations and system recommendations. Serving as a subject-matter expert on firestop system performance and the Hilti fire protection portfolio.
• Quality Assurance: Ensuring engineering output meets high standards of accuracy, constructability, and compliance to mitigate technical and commercial risk.
• Code Compliance: Overseeing the development of fire protection engineering judgments that align with applicable UL/ASTM fire testing standards and North American building codes.

Essential Qualifications and Skills

To excel as a Lead Fire Protection Engineer, candidates typically possess the following qualifications:

• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Experience: 7+ years of technical experience in the fire protection field, with 3+ years of experience designing fire protection systems preferred. Experience in other engineering fields may also be considered.
• Technical Knowledge: A strong understanding of UL 1479 / ASTM E814, UL 263 / ASTM E119, UL 2079 / ASTM E1966, and related fire test standards.
• Code Familiarity: Working knowledge of the International Building Code (IBC) and Canadian building code requirements.
• Communication & Leadership: Excellent communication, organization, and multitasking skills, with a strong desire to coach, mentor, and lead technical professionals.

Why Choose Hilti?

Hilti, a global leader in construction innovation with over 34,000 team members in 120 countries, offers a compelling environment for Fire Protection Engineers. The company’s commitment to “Making Construction Better” fosters a culture of continuous learning, growth, and impact.

Hilti provides a robust benefits package, including:

• Competitive base salary and bonus potential
• Generous paid time off (vacation, personal days, health & wellness, community service)
• Paid family exit
• Educational reimbursement
• 401(k) matching
• Medical/dental/vision coverage

Commitment to Inclusion

Hilti is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity of thought is embraced and every team member feels valued and empowered. This commitment strengthens teams, drives innovation, and ultimately contributes to making construction better for everyone. Hilti, Inc. Is an equal opportunity employer, committed to employing a diverse workforce and providing consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.