Become a Fire Protection Engineer at NIST
Are you an engineering expert dedicated to safety and code compliance? The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is currently seeking a highly qualified professional to serve as an Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) in Gaithersburg, Maryland. This role is essential for maintaining the safety of one of the nation's most prestigious scientific research environments.
Job Responsibilities
As a Code Compliance AHJ, you will function as a technical expert responsible for:
- Evaluating, inspecting, and testing fire suppression, fire alarm, and mass notification systems.
- Ensuring building designs and renovations meet stringent safety standards.
- Interpreting and applying NFPA and ICC codes to non-standard research facility designs.
- Collaborating with researchers and construction teams to provide code equivalencies and guidance.
Requirements
To qualify for this role, you must meet the following baseline standards:
Core Engineering Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited institution.
- Comprehensive knowledge of fundamental engineering sciences, including fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and strength of materials.
Specialized Experience
| Level | Specialized Experience Needed | Required Credentials |
|---|---|---|
| ZP-III | 1 year at GS-09 level (fire protection design/review) | Bachelor's or higher degree |
| ZP-IV | 1 year at GS-12 level (complex/high-occupancy design) | Professional Engineer (PE) License |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $85,447 to $187,093 per year, commensurate with experience and the selected grade level. NIST utilizes the Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS), a pay-for-performance structure designed to attract top-tier talent. Employees benefit from federal leave programs, health insurance, and a collaborative work environment that prioritizes work-life balance.
How to Apply
- Draft a Concise Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages. Highlight your most relevant fire safety experience.
- Gather Documentation: Ensure you have your college transcripts (official or unofficial) and your PE license if applying for ZP-IV.
- Submit via USAJOBS: Follow the link to the official portal to complete your profile and answer the technical competency questions.
- Final Review: Ensure all files are uploaded as PDFs and submitted before the deadline of September 25, 2026.
This is a unique opportunity for an experienced engineer to make a tangible impact on institutional safety. If you have the technical expertise to interpret complex codes and the leadership skills to manage fire safety compliance, apply today to support the critical mission of NIST.
Why This Delegated Authority Having Jurisdiction - Code Compliance Job Matters
Protect the Future of Innovation: Join the National Institute of Standards and Technology as a Code Compliance Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Delegated Authority Having Jurisdiction - Code Compliance Job Overview
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking a skilled Fire Protection Engineer to serve within the Office of Safety, Health, and Environment (OSHE). This role is critical to maintaining a safe work environment by ensuring that all facility designs, renovations, and research activities adhere to the highest fire and life safety standards. You will act as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), overseeing compliance, inspections, and safety system testing to protect employees, the public, and vital research infrastructure in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
Requirements for Delegated Authority Having Jurisdiction - Code Compliance
- Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or a combination of equivalent education and technical experience.
- For ZP-III level: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-09, focusing on fire protection system design or code review.
- For ZP-IV level: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-12, involving complex design, peer review, and final approval of safety systems.
- For ZP-IV level: Mandatory valid Professional Engineering (PE) license in Fire Protection.
- Must be able to meet physical requirements including walking, standing, and lifting up to 44 lbs.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be able to file an OGE-450 Confidential Financial Disclosure Report.
Preferred Qualifications for Delegated Authority Having Jurisdiction - Code Compliance
- Proven track record in interpreting International Code Council (ICC) building codes and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.
- Experience in commissioning or inspecting complex multi-hazard environments.
- Strong communication skills for coordinating with management and engineering teams on variance requests and code equivalencies.
- Demonstrated ability to perform technical evaluations of fire alarm, suppression, and mass notification systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary under the APMS pay-for-performance system.
- ✓Flexible work-life arrangements and telework opportunities.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a world-class scientific research environment.
- ✓Professional development and training support.
💡 How to Apply Delegated Authority Having Jurisdiction - Code Compliance Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Delegated Authority Having Jurisdiction - Code Compliance Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages (11pt font or larger).
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach necessary transcripts and/or professional licenses.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal to receive notifications regarding your eligibility.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume highlights month/year and hours worked for each relevant role.
- Submit your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting remains intact.
- Proofread your narrative responses to ensure they are your own original work.
- Double-check that your PE license (if applying for ZP-IV) is included in your documents.
- Address any foreign education with a formal course-by-course evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a PE license mandatory for this position?
It is a selective placement factor for the ZP-IV level. You must possess a valid Professional Engineering (PE) license in Fire Protection to qualify at that level.
What is the application deadline?
The vacancy closes on September 25, 2026, at 11:59 PM (ET).
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, only the first two pages of your resume will be reviewed by the Subject Matter Experts.
Does this position allow for remote work?
This position is telework-eligible, though it requires an on-site presence in Gaithersburg, MD, for inspections and facility coordination.
What if I have a foreign degree?
You must provide a course-by-course evaluation from an accredited organization demonstrating that your education is equivalent to a U.S. degree.
Job from National Institute Of Standards And Technology
NIST is a premier federal agency that works to advance innovation and improve the quality of life through science and technology. Within NIST, the Office of Safety, Health, and Environment (OSHE) plays a vital role. OSHE is responsible for developing and implementing management systems that minimize risk, ensuring that NIST employees can perform groundbreaking scientific work in a secure, compliant, and hazard-free environment.