At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape safer buildings through fire research and engineering advice on real projects.
- Company: Join BRE, a leading independent research and advisory organisation.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and access to unique fire testing facilities.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fire safety while building your expertise.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate degree in structural fire engineering or related field required.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Help shape safer buildings through specialist fire research, testing and engineering advice. This is an opportunity for an early-career structural fire engineer to join BRE’s Built Environment team, working on real projects for government and private sector clients. You will use your postgraduate research, modelling and analytical skills to support fire safety research, consultancy and testing that has a practical impact across the built environment.
What you’ll be doing
- Support fire safety analysis and research projects involving structural fire experiments, fire compartmentation, numerical analysis, site investigations and façades/cladding.
- Contribute to large and small-scale fire research projects.
- Use modelling and analysis tools to support technical assessments.
- Analyse data and draw evidence-based conclusions.
- Review technical information, drawings and project evidence.
- Prepare clear technical reports and project outputs.
- Support proposals and help deliver work to the agreed scope and deadlines.
- Manage defined pieces of project work, with support from experienced colleagues.
- Represent BRE in project meetings and technical discussions where appropriate.
What we’re looking for
- A postgraduate qualification in structural fire engineering, or a closely related field with relevant fire, structural or modelling content.
- Exposure to finite element analysis, ideally including SAFIR, or related modelling tools.
- Strong numerical, analytical and data interpretation skills.
- The ability to read construction drawings and work with technical documentation.
- Familiarity with CAD software.
- An interest in UK fire safety codes, building regulations and Eurocode fire parts.
- Clear written communication skills, including the ability to produce technical reports.
- The ability to organise your work, manage priorities and meet project deadlines.
- Curiosity and willingness to keep learning as project needs develop.
Experience in fire engineering consultancy, fire research, fire testing, structural engineering, façade/cladding, certification/testing, construction products, government-funded research or regulated technical consultancy would be helpful, but is not essential if your academic background is strong.
Location and working pattern
This role is based at the BRE Science Park in Watford / Garston. The hybrid pattern is 3 days per week on site, plus customer site visits where required. This may vary slightly during busy or training periods.
Why join BRE
BRE is a world-leading independent research, advisory and testing organisation focused on making buildings safer, more sustainable and better for people. You will join a specialist team with access to unique fire research and testing facilities, working on projects that combine technical depth with real-world impact. This role offers the chance to build your expertise in structural fire engineering while learning from experienced colleagues across fire research, testing and consultancy.
Ready to apply?
If you have a postgraduate background in structural fire engineering, strong analytical skills and an interest in applying your research to practical fire safety challenges, we would like to hear from you. We welcome applications from people with different backgrounds and experiences. Even if your experience does not match every point, but your qualification and technical foundation are relevant, we encourage you to apply.
Junior Fire Engineer in Northampton employer: BRE - Building Research Establishment
At BRE, we pride ourselves on being a world-leading independent research and advisory organisation dedicated to enhancing building safety and sustainability. As a Junior Fire Engineer, you will benefit from a collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth through hands-on experience with cutting-edge fire research and testing facilities. Located at the BRE Science Park in Watford, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful projects while learning from industry experts in a supportive environment.
Contact Details:
BRE - Building Research Establishment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Fire Engineer in Northampton
✨Get Involved with Local Fire Services
Join community groups or volunteer with local fire departments to get a foot in the door. It’s a great way to showcase your commitment to fire safety and emergency services while also making valuable connections in the field.
✨Attend Firefighting Job Fairs
Keep an eye out for firefighting job fairs and emergency services recruiting events in your area. These are goldmines for meeting staff from companies like BRE - Building Research Establishment and other emergency services, giving you a chance to chat and make a lasting impression.
✨Connect with Industry Professionals Online
Utilise platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn to find fire service groups and forums. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can elevate your profile and help us to learn from those already in the field, potentially leading to job openings.
✨Keep Your Training Up-to-Date
Make sure your qualifications are current! Pursuing additional training, like first aid or specialised firefighting courses, shows your dedication and might just set you apart from the crowd when applying for roles at BRE - Building Research Establishment.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Fire Engineer in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Commitment to Safety:In the fire and emergency services sector, it's crucial to showcase your understanding of safety protocols and emergency response challenges. Mention any relevant training or certifications you've completed, like First Aid or Fire Safety courses, and highlight your commitment to public safety in your cover letter.
Highlight Your Teamwork Skills:This field is all about collaboration! Make sure your CV emphasises your ability to work in a team under pressure. Detail examples of teamwork from previous roles, volunteer work or community involvement. Hiring managers at BRE - Building Research Establishment will love to see how you thrive in a group dynamic.
Detail Your Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, don't just mention your job titles – dig into your responsibilities and achievements that relate specifically to fire and emergency services. Include any volunteer work, internships, or projects that display your hands-on experience in this field, especially if you're transitioning from another area.
Craft a Strong Motivation Statement:As you're applying for a full-time role, it’s key to articulate why you want to join BRE - Building Research Establishment specifically. Dive into your motivation for working in fire services, and how this aligns with your career goals. We want to see your passion for contributing to the community and the impact you wish to make!
How to prepare for a job interview at BRE - Building Research Establishment
✨Know Your Emergency Protocols
Since you're eyeing a role in fire emergency services, brush up on the latest firefighting techniques and protocols. Understanding the fundamentals of fire behaviour, rescue operations, and safety measures will show that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Expect situational questions that test your ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure scenarios. Think of examples from your previous experiences or training where you had to think on your feet—this will really highlight your suitability for the role and show that you can handle real emergencies.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Community Engagement
Fire emergency services rely heavily on teamwork, so come prepared to discuss how you've worked with others in stressful situations. Additionally, showcase any community involvement or outreach you've done—it's a great way to demonstrate your commitment to public safety and your understanding of community dynamics.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Training
Make sure you’re ready to talk about any relevant training or certifications you have. Whether it’s emergency response training or a first aid qualification, make it clear how these experiences prepare you for a full-time position in fire emergency services with BRE - Building Research Establishment. It shows you’re proactive about your professional development!
