Technical Director - Fire Engineer

Technical Director - Fire Engineer

Full-Time 68000 - 136130 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the development of fire engineering practice and collaborate on innovative projects.
  • Company: Join WJE, a global leader in engineering and architecture with a culture of trust.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work environment, and comprehensive health benefits.
  • Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for professional growth and mentorship.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in fire engineering while building your own practice.
  • Qualifications: Chartered Fire Engineer with 10+ years of experience and leadership skills.

The predicted salary is between 68000 - 136130 £ per year.

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Limited (WJE) is seeking a highly motivated and well-established Fire Engineer to join our team in London as a Technical Director responsible for helping to lead the continued development of our fire engineering practice.

The Company was founded in 1956 and is an interdisciplinary firm of over 600 engineers, architects, and materials scientists committed to helping clients solve, repair, and avoid challenging problems in the built world. With projects across the Americas, the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, our project teams comprise internationally recognised industry leaders, known for our principles-first, hands-on, problem-solving approach.

In 2014, WJE began developing a plan for expansion into the UK and Europe that led to the establishment of Wiss, Janney, Elstner Limited in London. Today, our London office includes expertise in facade engineering, facade fire protection, building physics, adaptive reuse, and conservation with active project work across the UK and throughout Europe.

We provide a wide range of services to our clients, including but not limited to structural engineering, architecture, fire protection engineering, field testing, on-site investigation, and forensics.

WJE employs extraordinary people at all levels of our organisation — people with outstanding character, a lifelong-learner mindset, a strong desire to be innovative and excel, and a willingness to work as part of a team. We offer competitive compensation, a flexible work environment, and a culture of trust and personal responsibility, where our people are given the resources and the latitude to thrive professionally.

As a Technical Director, you will be integral to the advancement of WJE’s emerging fire engineering practice across the United Kingdom and Europe. This is a special opportunity to build a practice of your own, supported by the resources, reputation, and longevity of our team in London.

As a practice leader in our London office, you will provide technical expertise in the UK market, while collaborating with interdisciplinary project teams locally and company-wide. You will apply your deep understanding of fire engineering principles, leverage advanced technologies and simulation capabilities, and interpret current and historic building codes to make sound judgments and deliver innovative yet practical fire strategies.

Specific areas of inquiry in this practice include rapid assessment and implementation of actionable, cost-effective solutions to address challenging new designs, existing building conditions, and sudden failures (including facade fires). Responsibilities will extend beyond technical execution and management of project work, including opportunities for fostering new and existing client relationships, building and mentoring a team, contributing to in-house research and development initiatives, and establishing an industry presence through participation in professional organisations and committees.

The ideal candidate is motivated to build up an emerging practice, intellectually curious and able to tackle complex assignments, committed to providing technically sound and practical solutions, independent and resourceful, and effective in team building and collaboration across skill levels. Additional qualifications include:

  • Chartered Fire Engineer
  • Advanced degree in fire engineering or related field
  • 10 or more years of relevant industry experience

Preference will be given to a proven leader, who has successfully developed and managed a small practice that is recognised within the local profession and industry at large.

WJE offers a robust, total compensation structure composed of base salary, incentive pay, and industry-leading benefits. Employees receive variable compensation based on personal and company performance, typically resulting in above-market total compensation. A good faith estimate of the annual starting base salary (gross) is in the following range: £81,680.00 - £136,130.00.

WJE’s industry-leading, total rewards package enables our employees to grow and thrive with comprehensive health and financial benefits, including robust and affordable health plans for employees and their families, generous 401(k) matching, time off to care for yourself and others, and investments in employees’ educational assistance and professional development.

WJE is an Equal Opportunity Employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Technical Director - Fire Engineer employer: Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Limited (WJE) is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of trust, collaboration, and continuous learning, making it an ideal place for a Technical Director - Fire Engineer to thrive. With a commitment to employee growth through mentoring and professional development, WJE offers competitive compensation and industry-leading benefits, all within the vibrant city of London, where you can engage with diverse projects across Europe. Join a team of extraordinary professionals dedicated to solving complex challenges in the built environment while enjoying a flexible work environment that values innovation and personal responsibility.

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Contact Details:

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Technical Director - Fire Engineer

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 Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. 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 Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc..

We think you need these skills to ace Technical Director - Fire Engineer

Fire Engineering Principles
Technical Expertise
Advanced Technologies
Simulation Capabilities
Building Codes Interpretation
Project Management
Client Relationship Management

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 Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. 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 Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. 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 Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.

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 Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.. It shows you’re proactive about your professional development!