ISBSL Principal Researcher - Codes, Fire Rated Systems & Building Practices
On-siteLibertyville, Illinois, United States
Job Summary
Monitor, interpret, and communicate changes in model building codes, fire and life safety provisions, and standards affecting USG products. Represent USG in code hearings, standards meetings, and trade associations to develop positions, comments, and technical rationale. Support escalated field issues involving fire rated assemblies, listed systems, and constructability by resolving technical barriers with Sales, Product Management, and R&D teams. Create and deliver training, customer presentations, technical bulletins, and guidance documents that translate complex code topics into actionable insights. Track emerging code trends, competitive strategies, and AHJ concerns to maintain and expand compliance pathways. Work up to 25% travel for customer support and industry engagement.
Required Qualifications
- 15+ years of relevant experience in building codes, code consulting, fire rated building systems, building science, or manufacturer codes/standards leadership.
- Strong working knowledge of North American construction practices and how fire rated wall, floor/ceiling, assemblies are designed, specified, installed, inspected, and accepted in the field.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply model building codes and standards, such as IBC, IFC, NFPA, ASTM, UL/Intertek listings, ICC-ES acceptance/evaluation pathways, or similar compliance frameworks.
- Experience working with architects, engineers, contractors, code officials, AHJs, testing/certification agencies, trade associations, or manufacturer technical teams to resolve code and constructability questions.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write technical guidance, reports, bulletins, presentations, code comments, and customer facing explanations.
- Bachelor's degree in architecture, Engineering, Fire Protection, or a related field.
- Equivalent senior code, consulting, construction, manufacturer, or standards experience will be considered.
- Ability to travel up to 25% for customer support, industry meetings, code hearings, trade association events, and training.
Desired Qualifications
- Active or prior participation in ICC, ASTM, NFPA, Gypsum Association, or similar code/standards bodies.
- Experience preparing or supporting code change proposals, public comments, technical committee positions, engineering judgments/opinion letters, evaluation reports, or product compliance strategies.
- Professional registration or certifications such as PE, RA, ICC certifications, or similar credentials are valued but not required.
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