FM Approvals Engineering Assistant

FM Approvals is an international leader in third-party testing and certification services. We test property loss prevention products and services—for use in commercial and industrial facilities—to verify they meet rigorous loss prevention standards of quality, technical integrity and performance. How? By employing a worldwide certification process that’s backed by scientific research and testing, and over a century of experience.

The FM APPROVED mark is recognized and respected worldwide. Our certification instills confidence and commands respect in your marketplace.

Join a collaborative and mission-driven engineering team dedicated to ensuring the safety and reliability of products used around the world. Under the guidance of a Technical Team Manager, the Engineering Assistant plays a critical role in testing and evaluating products submitted by manufacturers using established FM, UL, and ANSI procedures. You’ll support the project engineers by performing hands-on testing, gathering accurate data, and documenting results that directly impact product approvals and certifications.

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys problem-solving, working with technical equipment, and continuously expanding their engineering knowledge.

What You’ll Do

Product Testing & Evaluation

• Conduct tests on submitted products following documented FM, UL, and ANSI test procedures.
• Record and report test results to the designated project engineer.
• Review and process client-submitted design change documentation using technical judgment.

Laboratory Operations

• Receive, label, and safely store test samples.
• Develop increasing proficiency with electronic bench instruments (e.g., oscilloscopes, meters, power supplies).
• Design and fabricate test setups and apparatus as required for each assigned task.
• Work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining meticulous documentation.

Collaboration & Mentorship

• Occasionally interact with clients—strong communication skills are essential.
• Mentor and train less experienced lab staff as needed.
• Build competency across a growing range of product testing areas to support FM Approvals’ objectives.

Additional Requirements

• Occasional travel to the Engineering & Research Campus in West Glocester, RI.

AS in technical area + 2 years of related experience

Degrees in electrical or mechanical engineering and knowledge of, or employment in Electrical Products, design or manufacturing industry is preferred

The successful candidate will have:

•  Attention to detail and good organizational skills.
•  Excellent oral and written communication skills.
•  The ability to design and fabricate test fixtures and setups as required for each assigned test.
•  Set up, operate and troubleshoot required test equipment and /or data acquisition equipment.
•  The skill and experience to test manufacturers submitted products in the fire protection, electrical, or building materials industries.
•  The ability to work with minimal supervision and document the test results at the conclusion of the testing.
•  The ability to prioritize job duties and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.   

•  Basic computer literacy
• Competency with MS Office
• Experience with Industrial Fire Alarm & Signaling equipment would be a distinct bonus

The final salary offer will vary based on geographic location, individual education, skills, and experience. The position is eligible to participate in FM's comprehensive Total Rewards program that includes an incentive plan, generous health and well-being programs, a 401(k) and pension plan, career development opportunities, tuition reimbursement, flexible work, time off allowances and much more.

FM Approvals is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse workforce.