Technical Assessor – Fire Testing

Technical Assessor (Fire Testing) – Independent Contractor

Organisation: UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service)
Location: Remote (UK-based) with UK and potential international travel
Contract Type: Contractor / Independent – outside IR35

About the Role

UKAS is the National Accreditation Body for the United Kingdom. We are expanding our network of independent Technical Assessors and Experts with specialist knowledge in fire resistance and/or reaction-to-fire testing to support our accreditation activities. This is a flexible, contract-based opportunity for individuals with expertise in fire testing, working as part of a UKAS assessment team to evaluate the competence of testing organisations across a range of sectors. You will assess organisations such as testing laboratories and certification bodies to ensure they meet UK and international fire safety standards.

The role is remote, with travel required for on-site assessments as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct technical evaluations of fire testing organisations
• Review test methods, equipment, and environmental controls
• Assess compliance with relevant standards (e.g. ISO/IEC 17025, CE marking, harmonised European product standards)
• Evaluate the impact of testing parameters on result uncertainty and commercial implications
• Provide expert feedback on conformity with regulatory frameworks
• Produce clear reports and communicate findings effectively

What We’re Looking For

This role focuses on technical fire testing and is not intended for those whose primary experience is in fire risk assessment.

• Proven, practical experience in fire resistance and/or reaction-to-fire testing, with the ability to demonstrate technical capability through real-world examples
• Strong understanding of British, European, and international fire safety standards
• Awareness of the commercial and regulatory impact of fire test results
• Familiarity with supporting measurements (e.g. temperature, humidity, force, linear measurements)
• Knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 (desirable)
• Commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and impartiality

Sector Experience – One or more

We do not expect applicants to have experience in every sector listed below. If you have expertise in just one or more of these areas, we would like to hear from you:

• Construction products
• Marine
• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Rail
• Consumer products

Typical Backgrounds

This role suits qualified professionals with extensive experience in fire testing, fire safety research, or regulation. Ideal candidates may have worked in commercial fire testing laboratories, insurance underwriting or fire risk assessment roles, fire safety research and development laboratories, product certification or conformity assessment bodies, or fire protection engineering or consultancy. A strong understanding of fire testing methods, regulatory frameworks, and personnel competence schemes is essential.

Contract Details

This is a freelance, subcontractor role, designed to fit around your existing professional commitments.
You may undertake assessments alongside your full-time employment.
Day rates are competitive and paid per assessment, including preparation and reporting time.

Conflict of Interest

All applicants will be required to complete a conflict of interest declaration as part of the selection process. This ensures impartiality and maintains the integrity of UKAS assessments.