Principal or Associate Fire Engineer

Job Description

Principal or Associate Fire Engineer

Glasgow, Bristol, Manchester or London

Competitive salary + benefits

We have an exciting opening for a Principal or Associate Fire Engineer to join our firm in our Glasgow, Bristol, Manchester or London offices.

About us

Hoare Lea is a human-centric and planet-conscious engineering consultancy. We offer intelligent and sustainable solutions to complex design challenges for the built environment throughout the UK and further afield.

We provide a wide range of engineering and consultancy services, including acoustics, air quality, building services (MEP), fire, lighting, security and sustainability to name but a few. Together, our highly skilled teams use technical expertise and problem-solving skills to bring buildings to life. We ensure that whatever the building, its design is outstanding, and its operations meet the needs of the communities it serves.

We are as committed to providing an environment where everyone can realise their unique potential. So, in joining Hoare Lea, you will experience a business that enriches your knowledge, supports your wellbeing, and welcomes your individuality. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in our 9-day fortnight scheme, thriving community groups, varied social and networking events, and extensive professional and technical development schemes. We also offer an extensive benefits package, including private medical cover, an electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, stock options, and 25 days of annual leave (increasing with service), alongside flexible and hybrid working.

Hoare Lea’s Fire Engineering group is a leading team of experienced fire safety specialists, many Chartered through the Institution of Fire Engineers. As part of one of the UK’s largest building engineering consultancies we collaborate with top engineers, access advanced technical resources, and work on major, high‑profile projects—while also delivering standalone fire engineering commissions and maintaining long‑term client relationships.

Notable projects include Heathrow Terminal 2, Doha Metro, the £1bn Elephant & Castle redevelopment, the ExCeL extension, the Royal Hospital for Children and Young Persons (Edinburgh), seven of Manchester’s ten tallest buildings (including the UK’s tallest residential tower), several major UK airport terminals and two World Cup stadia.

We invest heavily in research and testing—covering computational modelling, emerging risks and novel techniques—and recently led two of the world’s largest CLT compartment fire tests to validate a sustainable timber office design.

Training and professional development are central to our culture: weekly internal sessions, regular away‑days and access to external events support career growth and CEng attainment. Our team’s diverse background includes ex‑fire service, building control and specialists in physics, mechanical/chemical engineering, materials science and forensics.

We are active in SFPE, the Smoke Control Association, BSI and the Institution of Fire Engineers.

Why join us?

• World‑class fire engineering on high‑quality, varied projects.
• Strong client repeat business and long‑term relationships.
• Exceptional training and a clear route to Chartered status.
• Flexible working and generous benefits (including a 9‑day fortnight option).
• A supportive, inclusive team culture with regular socials.

About the role

• Join Hoare Lea’s Fire Engineering team to deliver fire safety design for buildings across the UK (with occasional international projects).
• Collaborate within multi‑disciplinary project teams and manage long‑term external client relationships.
• Apply detailed knowledge of UK fire regulations and design guidance to produce compliant, practical solutions.
• Integrate fire engineering requirements with other construction disciplines to achieve coordinated designs.
• Maintain clear, timely communication across teams, incorporating and acting on feedback.
• Represent the fire team at design workshops, client meetings and site visits.
• Travel to client sites and project locations in the UK, and occasionally abroad, as project needs dictate.
• Use fire‑modelling and analysis tools (evacuation, smoke, heat radiation and structural fire models) to support design decisions.

What we are looking for

• Proven experience in a fire engineering consultancy or related fire safety role.
• Relevant degree or equivalent qualification in Engineering, Building Services, Architecture, Physics, Maths or similar, with strong technical knowledge in fire safety design.
• Practical experience with fire modelling / analysis software.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and a collaborative approach to team working.
• Strong organisational skills, ability to prioritise and deliver to tight deadlines.
• Professionalism, attention to detail and commitment to high‑quality client service.

How to apply

To apply simply complete a CV profile and submit your application, or for further information please contact [email protected].

If shortlisted, one of our recruitment team will be in touch to arrange a introductory call (about 30 minutes) to discuss the role and your experience in more detail. From there, successful candidates will be invited to attend a panel interview, either via Microsoft Teams or in person at one of our offices.

Adjustments and accommodations

If there are adjustments or accommodations that we can put in place to help you participate and give your best at any stage of the recruitment process (whether relating to disability, neurodivergence or anything else) please let us know.

Data privacy

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Recruitment agencies

We have a Preferred Supplier List of trusted partners who assist us when required. We do not acknowledge speculative CVs or unsolicited candidate introductions from agencies not on the list.