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Fire Expert Witness Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Serve as a Fire Protection Engineering subject matter expert (SME) for all client locations ... Witness acceptance testing and commissioning of fire protection systems and equipment to validate ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Serve as a Fire Protection Engineering subject matter expert (SME) for all client locations ... Witness acceptance testing and commissioning of fire protection systems and equipment to validate ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$62K - $141K/yr

As a Fire Protection Engineer, you'll serve as a subject matter expert on fire protection and life ... Witness acceptance testing and commissioning of fire protection systems and equipment to validate ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$62K - $141K/yr

As a Fire Protection Engineer, you'll serve as a subject matter expert on fire protection and life ... Witness acceptance testing and commissioning of fire protection systems and equipment to validate ...

Serve as a fire protection subject matter expert (SME) for all client locations. * Review planning ... Witness acceptance testing and commissioning of fire protection systems and equipment to validate ...

Serve as a fire protection subject matter expert (SME) for all client locations. * Review planning ... Witness acceptance testing and commissioning of fire protection systems and equipment to validate ...

Fire Alarm & Special Hazard Inspector

Tysons, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $27/hr

... expert for troubleshooting and inspection review. * Conduct final acceptance testing and witness ... NICET II in Fire Alarm * Preferred: NICET III in Fire Alarm Qualifications * High school diploma ...

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Fire Expert Witness information

What is a fire expert witness?

Fire Expert Witnesses are professionals with specialized knowledge and experience in fire science, investigation, or related fields who provide expert testimony in legal cases involving fires. They assist courts by explaining technical aspects of fire causes, spread, and damage, and may analyze evidence to determine factors such as origin or liability. Fire Expert Witnesses often have backgrounds in fire investigation, engineering, or forensic science, and their testimony can be crucial in both civil and criminal proceedings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire expert witness, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Expert Witness, you need in-depth knowledge of fire science, investigation procedures, and relevant codes, often supported by a degree in fire protection engineering or similar and certifications such as CFEI or IAAI-CFI. Familiarity with fire modeling software, forensic analysis tools, and industry standards is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to clearly communicate complex findings to legal professionals and juries set outstanding candidates apart. These skills are vital for providing credible, objective, and comprehensible expert testimony in legal proceedings involving fire incidents.

How does a fire expert witness typically collaborate with legal teams during an investigation?

As a Fire Expert Witness, you will often work closely with attorneys and investigators, providing technical analysis and clear explanations of fire-related evidence. Your role involves reviewing case materials, conducting site inspections, preparing detailed reports, and sometimes testifying in court. Effective communication is key, as you'll need to translate complex fire science concepts into understandable information for legal professionals and juries. Collaboration is ongoing throughout the case, ensuring that your expertise supports the legal strategy and helps clarify the facts.

What is the difference between Fire Expert Witness vs Fire Investigator?

AspectFire Expert WitnessFire Investigator
CredentialsFire science certifications, forensic trainingFire science certifications, investigative training
Work EnvironmentCourts, legal settings, consultingOn-site fire scene investigation
Employer & IndustryLegal firms, insurance companies, consultingFire departments, insurance companies, private firms
Primary RoleProvide expert testimony, analyze fire causes in courtInvestigate fire origins, determine cause and origin

While both Fire Expert Witnesses and Fire Investigators have backgrounds in fire science and forensic training, their roles differ. Fire Investigators focus on on-site fire scene analysis, whereas Fire Expert Witnesses provide expert testimony in court based on investigations. Both roles are essential in fire-related legal cases but serve different functions within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Expert Witness jobs in Washington?

For Fire Expert Witness jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Fire Expert Witness jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Fire Expert Witness job openings:

Infographic showing various Fire Expert Witness job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution.

Senior Fire Protection Discipline Engineer (10+ years)

Coffman Engineers, Inc.

Fulton, MD • On-site

$150K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Coffman Engineers rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Company Description
At Coffman Engineers, we serve as both prime consultant and sub consultant on projects large and small, including commercial, retail, institutional, government, industrial, and project/construction management. Incorporated in 1979, we have employees in more than 23 locations serving clients across the United States and overseas.
To meet client objectives and to integrate our many disciplines, we can create teams comprised of civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and corrosion control, as well as project/construction managers and professionals in a variety of specialty services. This ability has made us a leader in the engineering and construction communities, and has strengthened our reputation as being progressive, innovative, and a great place to work.
Job Description
Coffman Engineers' DC Metro office is seeking a Senior Fire Protection Discipline Engineer with 1ten or more years of experience to join our growing team. We are looking for a dynamic, innovative, and quality-driven professional with a strong interest in fire protection and forensics consulting.
The ideal candidate is a self-motivated team player who thrives in a collaborative environment and is eager for a challenging, rewarding role within a progressive firm. We are seeking a leader who works effectively with diverse personalities, values building strong client relationships, and is committed to ongoing professional growth.
This position offers a blend of technical consulting, forensic support, department development, and mentorship of junior staff. Our teams operate in a tight-knit, supportive environment that prioritizes work-life balance, professional development, and care for the whole person.
Qualifications
Requirements Include:
  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in engineering from accredited college or university.
    • Fire Protection specific degree not required.
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE).
  • Fire Protection License by examination issued by any state in the United States.
  • Minimum of 10-years working experience in the Fire Protection profession with a focus on forensics support.
  • Strong working knowledge of NFPA codes, IBC, and related standards.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including oral presentation skills.
  • Travel is required.

Duties and Skills:
  • Managing day-to-day contacts with internal and external clients while utilizing experience and technology to meet expectations.
  • Project management skills for managing internal projects and staff as well as external client needs.
  • Developing new clients and business.
  • Familiar with providing expert consultation and providing advice to clients including attorneys, adjustors, claims handlers, insureds, etc. in matters involving subrogation, liability, construction-related claims and other litigation and legal matters.
  • Familiar with proper evidence collection, handling, storage and examination practices.
  • Experience in expert witness testimony.
  • Performing analysis of fire protection systems, including water-based systems, special hazards systems and fire detection, alarm and mass notification systems.
  • Building and fire code analysis and interpretation.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Approximate Base Salary - $150k-$215k.
  • Salary will be determined based on qualifications and relevant experience.
  • Hybrid Work Schedule (subject to change).
  • 401k with maximum of 5% Contribution Matching for 9% Employee Contribution.

This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
Additional Information
Why You Want to Work Here
You could choose to work anywhere, so why work at Coffman Engineers? Because we are different - our culture sets us apart. Simply stated, we are a group of creative, high-performing people who like working together and believe that what we do makes a difference. Employees say that it feels like working with a group of friends in a small office while enjoying the benefits and perks of working for a large firm. Our culture isn't the only thing that makes us different, but it drives everything we do.
Coffman offers comprehensive benefits, including a flexible PTO program and a fun environment with family-friendly policies. We support and encourage individually tailored professional and technical advancement as well as personal growth.
Don't take our word for it. Check out what others are saying:
http://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Coffman-Engineers-Reviews-E409809.htm
Coffman at a Glance:
  • 47 years in business
  • 850+ employees serving clients throughout the U.S. and overseas from more than 23 locations
  • Multi-discipline engineering services plus corrosion control, commissioning and project/construction management
  • 70+ employees in 9 offices, providing Fire Protection services since 2014
  • #34 Top 80 Engineering Firms, Building Design + Construction, 2022
  • #29 Zweig Group Hot Firm List, Zweig Group, 2021
  • #161 Top 500 Design Firms, Engineering News-Record, 2023

Applying
You must apply online for this position. If you are unable to complete our online application process, or if you need assistance to do so, let us know and we will provide reasonable accommodation.
If you are experiencing problems applying through our system, please try using a different browser or an updated version of your current browser. If that doesn't work, please contact us directly.
This position is direct with Coffman Engineers; we are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of any status protected under federal, state, or local law.
Follow us!
www.coffman.com
Twitter: @CoffmanEngineer
Instagram: @CoffmanEngineers
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coffman-engineers
Facebook: @CoffmanEngineers
Videos To Watch
https://youtu.be/D_3ECQTpORM
https://youtu.be/qVaRi7On2Qw
https://youtu.be/qStJT-Rg6jY

What Coffman Engineers employees say

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