Junior Fire Protection Engineer

At McFarland Johnson (MJ), we’re more than infrastructure consultants - we are a 100% employee-owned firm with 80 years of commitment to delivering innovative planning, engineering design, environmental services, technology, and construction solutions that make a lasting impact in the communities we serve.

We’re looking for a Junior Fire Protection Engineer to join our growing Facilities Division in Binghamton, NY. This is more than just a job - it’s a chance to shape your career, grow alongside a collaborative team, and help design the future of infrastructure solutions across the country.

Why Join Us?

• Career Growth: Accelerate your professional career with opportunities to lead, learn, and expand your expertise.
• Collaborative Culture: Work alongside multidisciplinary teams that thrive on creativity, support, and teamwork. Collaborative is the most frequent word used to describe MJ’s culture in annual employee survey.
• Employee Ownership: As a 100% ESOP, your contributions directly shape our shared success - you own your future.
• Innovation & Impact: Work on projects that push boundaries, drive sustainability, and create real-world solutions.
• Professional Development: From mentorship, ongoing technical training, and conferences we invest in your growth every step of the way.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy flexible schedules, generous PTO, and a culture that values balance so you can thrive both professionally and personally.
• Shape the next generation: For experienced professionals, MJ offers the chance to mentor emerging talent, share your expertise, and leave a lasting legacy in the industry.
  
  

What You'll Do

• Assist with the design of fire alarm, fire suppression, and life safety systems for new construction and renovation projects
• Support the development of construction drawings, specifications, and engineering calculations
• Perform code research and apply requirements from NFPA standards, IBC, IFC, and applicable state and local codes
• Coordinate with mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural, and architectural teams
• Participate in site visits, field investigations, and facility assessments
• Assist with technical reports, studies, and permit documentation
• Support construction administration activities, including submittal reviews, RFIs, and field observations
• Learn industry best practices under the guidance of senior engineers
• Participate in project meetings and client communications
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
• Relevant Experience: 0 to 6 years’ experience
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills are necessary for collaborating effectively with multi-disciplinary teams (architects, civil/mechanical engineers) and clients.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are critical for designing efficient and safe systems and troubleshooting issues.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in design and documentation is crucial for meeting stringent safety standards and project requirements.
• Eagerness to Learn: A proactive attitude, a passion for occasional field visits, site inspections, and working full-time from our office (onsite position), including staying updated with industry trends and technologies, is highly valued for this junior candidate.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel occasionally to project sites
  
  

Preferred

• Experience with fire alarm, fire suppression, or life safety system design
• EIT certification or the ability to obtain within 12 months
• Familiarity with NFPA codes and standards
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD and/or Revit
• Internship or co-op experience in consulting engineering or fire protection
• Experience supporting healthcare, aviation, institutional, municipal, or commercial facilities projects
  
  

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive base salary starting at $32 an hour, with a performance-based incentive payment plan/bonus structure.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous Paid Time Off, including Parental Leave.
• Company-funded ESOP 401(k) employer match.
• Ongoing technical training and professional development opportunities.
  
  

Join Us and Make a Difference

Join a team where your work has purpose, your ideas are valued, and your growth is personal. Apply today and become a part of a company where you can #ownyourfuture.