Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Fireproofing Technician

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a skilled and safety-oriented Fireproofing Technician to join our dynamic construction team. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the expert application of spray-applied fire-resistive materials (SFRM) and intumescent coatings to structural steel components of buildings. The ideal candidate is a meticulous and hardworking individual who understands that their work is fundamental to the structural integrity and life safety of a building. You will be operating specialized equipment, interpreting complex blueprints, and ensuring every application meets stringent industry standards and UL design requirements. This position requires physical stamina, a keen eye for detail, and an unwavering commitment to worksite safety.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Construction Laborer
Industrial Painter or Coater
Drywall Installer / Plasterer

Advancement To:

Fireproofing Foreman / Lead Hand
Project Supervisor / Superintendent
Construction Estimator or Project Manager

Lateral Moves:

Waterproofing Technician
Insulation Installer
Specialty Coatings Applicator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Precisely apply a variety of spray-applied fire-resistive materials (SFRM), including cementitious and intumescent coatings, to steel beams, columns, joists, and decking.
Read, interpret, and execute work based on architectural blueprints, project specifications, and manufacturer's technical data sheets.
Perform meticulous surface preparation, including cleaning structural steel and meticulously masking off adjacent areas, equipment, and finished surfaces to prevent overspray.
Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot specialized application equipment such as pumps (Putzmeister, Graco), mixers, hoses, and spray guns to ensure consistent and efficient operation.
Conduct rigorous quality control checks throughout the application process, including measuring wet and dry film thickness, density, and cohesion/adhesion to ensure compliance with UL designs.
Erect, modify, and dismantle various types of scaffolding, mobile platforms, and operate aerial work platforms (scissor lifts, boom lifts) to safely access all work areas.
Mix fireproofing materials to the precise consistency and water-to-product ratio as specified by the manufacturer for optimal performance and adhesion.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe job site, ensuring proper disposal of waste materials and adherence to environmental regulations.
Document daily work activities, including hours logged, material usage, and any site-specific challenges or delays, in detailed field reports for project management.
Adhere strictly to all OSHA, company, and site-specific safety policies and procedures, including the constant use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Collaborate effectively with other on-site trades (ironworkers, electricians, plumbers) to coordinate workflow and ensure project timelines are met without conflict.
Perform detailed patching and repair work on previously applied fireproofing that has been damaged or requires modification due to design changes.
Actively participate in daily toolbox talks, pre-task planning, and safety meetings to identify and mitigate potential job site hazards.
Assist with the loading, unloading, and staging of heavy materials and equipment, ensuring everything is stored securely and inventoried correctly.
Install supplementary fire protection systems, such as firecaulking and firestop products, in joints and penetrations as required by the project scope.
Utilize a wide range of hand and power tools necessary for preparation, application, finishing, and clean-up tasks.
Ensure all completed work meets or exceeds the required fire-resistance ratings specified in project documents and passes third-party inspections.
Communicate professionally and effectively with site supervisors, foremen, and quality control inspectors regarding project progress and any issues that may arise.
Manage on-site inventory of fireproofing materials, notifying supervisors of upcoming needs to prevent work stoppages and ensure timely procurement.
Train and mentor apprentices or junior laborers on proper application techniques, equipment operation, and critical safety protocols.

Secondary Functions

Assist with related construction tasks such as insulation, waterproofing, or general site support as directed by the site supervisor during downtime.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of work processes and safety protocols by providing practical, on-the-ground feedback and suggestions.
Collaborate with project managers and estimators by providing field-level insights that can inform future project bids and logistical planning.
Participate in daily huddles and weekly project review meetings to stay aligned with project timelines, goals, and coordination efforts.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Expertise in Spray-Applied Fire Resistive Materials (SFRM) Application
Proficiency in Intumescent Fire-Resistive Coating Application
Blueprint and Technical Drawing Interpretation
Operation & Maintenance of Spray Rigs, Pumps, and Mixers
Aerial Work Platform (Scissor/Boom Lift) Operation Certification
Scaffolding Erection and Dismantling (SAIA Certification preferred)
Quality Control Testing (Thickness Gauges, Density Measurement)
Knowledge of UL/ULC Fire Resistance Designs and Standards
Firestop Systems Installation (e.g., Hilti, 3M)
OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification
Surface Preparation and Masking Techniques

Soft Skills

Unwavering Attention to Detail
Strong Work Ethic and Reliability
Teamwork and Collaboration
Physical Stamina and Strength
Safety Consciousness and Hazard Recognition
Effective Time Management and Punctuality
Problem-Solving Abilities
Clear Communication Skills
Adaptability to Changing Site Conditions

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Certificate from a vocational or trade school in construction trades.
Manufacturer-specific application certifications (e.g., Isolatek, Grace, Carboline).

Relevant Fields of Study:

Construction Trades
Building Sciences

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of experience in commercial construction, with verifiable experience applying coatings, plaster, or similar materials.

Preferred: 3+ years of dedicated experience as a Fireproofing Applicator on large-scale commercial or industrial projects. Proven ability to read blueprints and lead small crews is highly desirable.