Foam Engineer

Fire Fighting Foam Engineer

Buckeye Fire Equipment

Kings Mountain, North Carolina

Full-Time | Onsite

About Buckeye Fire Equipment

Buckeye Fire Equipment is a leading manufacturer of fire suppression products, serving the fire protection industry with innovative solutions and exceptional quality. Located in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, we are committed to protecting lives and property through advanced fire fighting technology.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Fire Fighting Foam Engineer with extensive hands-on expertise to join our technical team. This critical role requires a seasoned professional who can leverage their deep practical knowledge of foam concentrate formulations, application systems, and field operations to drive product development, quality assurance, and technical support initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Product Development & Technical Expertise

• Design, develop, and optimize fire fighting foam concentrates for various applications including Class A, Class B, and specialty formulations
• Conduct laboratory testing and field evaluations to assess foam performance characteristics including expansion ratio, drainage time, burnback resistance, and extinguishment capability
• Troubleshoot complex foam system issues and develop practical solutions for customer applications
• Stay current with industry standards (NFPA, UL, EN, ICAO) and ensure product compliance

Hands-On Testing & Quality Control

• Perform hands-on foam testing using industry-standard equipment and protocols
• Conduct fire testing and live burn demonstrations to validate product performance
• Develop and refine testing procedures and quality control protocols
• Analyze foam samples and system performance data to identify improvement opportunities

Technical Support & Customer Engagement

• Provide expert technical guidance to customers, distributors, and internal sales teams
• Conduct onsite evaluations of foam systems and recommend appropriate solutions
• Deliver technical training sessions on foam concentrate properties, proportioning systems, and application techniques
• Respond to emergency technical support requests and troubleshoot field issues

Documentation & Compliance

• Prepare technical documentation including product data sheets, application guides, and test reports
• Maintain detailed records of formulations, testing results, and field performance
• Support regulatory compliance efforts and third-party certification processes
• Contribute to patent applications and intellectual property development

Required Qualifications

Experience & Education

• Minimum 10 years of hands-on experience working with fire fighting foam concentrates and suppression systems
• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, Chemistry, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)
• Direct experience with foam proportioning systems, delivery equipment, and application methods

Technical Skills

• Deep understanding of foam chemistry, surfactant science, and fire suppression mechanisms
• Practical knowledge of foam concentrate types: AFFF, AR-AFFF, Class A, fluorine-free formulations
• Experience with fire testing protocols and foam performance evaluation
• Proficiency in troubleshooting proportioning systems including in-line eductors, balanced pressure systems, and pump proportioners
• Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret technical data and testing results

Professional Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a hands-on, practical approach
• Strong communication skills with ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
• Willingness to travel occasionally for customer visits, field testing, and industry events
• Valid driver's license and ability to work in industrial and outdoor environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certifications in fire protection (CFPS, FPE) or related fields
• Experience with fluorine-free foam technology and emerging environmentally sustainable alternatives
• Background in industrial fire suppression applications (refineries, chemical plants, aviation facilities)
• Familiarity with CAD software and technical design tools
• Prior experience in manufacturing or quality control environments

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move equipment up to 50 pounds
• Comfortable working in laboratory, manufacturing, and outdoor field testing environments
• Capable of wearing personal protective equipment including fire suits and respirators
• Able to work in various weather conditions during field testing and demonstrations

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education
• Collaborative work environment with industry-leading professionals

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a resume detailing their hands-on experience with fire fighting foam systems and a cover letter explaining how their practical expertise aligns with this role.

Buckeye Fire Equipment is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.