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