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Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Fire Sprinkler Designer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

We are a small fire protection engineering firm looking for a fire sprinkler designer with good experience and a desire to work on interesting projects. We don't do malls or fast food restaurants, we ...

Fire Sprinkler Designer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

We are a small fire protection engineering firm looking for a fire sprinkler designer with good experience and a desire to work on interesting projects. We don't do malls or fast food restaurants, we ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$45.1K

$98.7K

$171K

How much do entry level fire protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level fire protection engineer in Virginia is $98,663.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level fire protection engineer do?

An Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer assists in designing, evaluating, and implementing systems and strategies to protect buildings and occupants from the dangers of fire. Their responsibilities often include creating fire alarm and sprinkler system layouts, reviewing building plans for fire code compliance, performing risk assessments, and collaborating with architects and contractors. They also help ensure that fire safety systems meet local regulations and standards, while gaining professional experience under the supervision of senior engineers. This role is crucial for enhancing public safety and minimizing fire-related hazards in various types of facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level fire protection engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in fire protection, mechanical, or civil engineering, along with a fundamental understanding of fire safety codes and building systems. Familiarity with CAD software, hydraulic calculation tools, and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and ensure safety compliance. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing effective fire protection systems that safeguard lives and property.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level fire protection engineers in their first year on the job?

Entry level fire protection engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex building codes and standards, adapting to the fast pace of project deadlines, and learning how to effectively communicate technical information to clients and multidisciplinary teams. Gaining hands-on experience with fire modeling software and field inspections can also be demanding at first. However, most firms provide mentorship and training to help new engineers develop these skills and build confidence as they grow in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer vs Fire Safety Technician?

AspectEntry Level Fire Protection EngineerFire Safety Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in fire protection engineering or related field; may include certifications like NICET Level IHigh school diploma or equivalent; NICET certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning fire protection systems, performing calculations, collaborating with engineers and clientsInspecting fire safety equipment, conducting tests, ensuring compliance on-site
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, industrial facilitiesBuilding management, safety consulting firms, maintenance companies

Entry Level Fire Protection Engineers focus on designing and analyzing fire safety systems, requiring technical degrees and certifications. Fire Safety Technicians primarily inspect and maintain fire safety equipment on-site. Both roles are essential in fire safety but differ in responsibilities, work environment, and qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Fire Protection Engineer job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,663 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Intern - Fire Protection Engineering

Richmond, VA • On-site

Dominion Energy
Utilities • 10K+ employees

$27 - $29/hr

Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Dominion Energy rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Dominion Energy is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy that powers our customers every day. If you want to work for a purpose-driven company that values safety and collaboration, we're looking for you. You won't just find a job here; you'll find your career. Review the position below and apply today.
We offer a hybrid 3-2 work schedule (three days in the office, two days of teleworking) to accommodate the need for flexibility.
At this time, Dominion Energy cannot transfer or sponsor a work visa or employment authorization for this position.
Job Summary
Dominion's Corporate Risk Engineering group provides loss control support to all of Dominion's business units as well as the engineering interface to our insurers. We are heavily involved in the transition to renewable energy with projects such as offshore wind and battery energy storage. These projects as well as support to our existing facilities provide an opportunity to our engineers to mitigate complex loss control and fire protection hazards that are not typically seen outside of industrial fire protection.
The intern will participate in construction projects, such as peaking combustion turbines, offshore wind, hydrogen blending, peak shaving LNG terminals, and battery energy storage facilities. Project support activities will include participation in the development of fire protection system specifications, design and bid evaluations, construction walkdowns, and participation in and review of system final acceptance tests. All forms of fire detection and protection systems are present in Dominion Energy facilities, including special hazard systems such as clean agents, CO2, low and hi ex foam, dry chemical, hybrid water mist, and water spray systems.
The intern will work with degreed and/or licensed Fire Protection Engineers. Assignments will include applying fire protection engineering principles and standards to develop practical risk reduction solutions. As an intern you will provide real-life examples to assist the individual in the understanding of engineering principles and industrial risk reduction strategies. The position requires a good understanding of related fire protection engineering principles and the ability to apply academics to real-life opportunities. Limited exercise of judgment will be required on details of work and in making preliminary selections and adaptations of risk reduction alternatives. May interface with other departments, contractors. and vendors to gather information and coordinate projects.
Perform other duties as requested or assigned.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
  • Valid driver's license required
  • Solid engineering skills commensurate with grade level
  • An inquisitive nature
  • The ability to follow written and verbal procedures
  • Good professional ethics
  • Oral and written communication skills (includes technical writing)
  • Planning, organizing, and project skills
  • Effective decision-making skills
  • Ability to coordinate multiple tasks
  • Basic computer skills and application of software programs
  • Analytical and abstract thinking skills
  • Ability to apply engineering theories and concepts to industrial problems

Education Requirements
  • Must be a full-time student currently working towards completing an ABET accredited Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection Engineering
  • Must have an anticipated graduation date between Fall 2027 and Fall 2029
  • Must have a GPA of 3.0 or greater

Test Description
No Testing Required
Export Control
Certain positions at Dominion Energy may involve access to information and technology subject to export controls under U.S. law. Compliance with these export controls may result in Dominion Energy limiting its consideration of certain applicants.
What You'll Get
Hourly Rate:
$27.00 - $29.00
The hourly rate listed is the rate we anticipate paying for this position. If a range is listed, the actual hourly rate offered may vary based on factors such as the selected candidate's degree type, academic major, and/or school classification (e.g., sophomore, junior, senior).
At Dominion Energy, we offer excellent plans and programs for employees. Employees are rewarded with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package which includes: health, dental, and vision benefits with coverage for families and domestic partners, vacation, retirement plans including 401k contributions and matches, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, bonus eligibility, sick leave, and disability insurance. To learn more about our benefits, click here: Dombenefits.com
Dominion Energy is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin and/or status as a protected veteran or individual with a disability.
You can experience the excitement of our company - it's the difference between taking a job and starting a career.
Top 3 Reasons to Work at Dominion Energy
1. Great Work Life Balance
2. Generous Pay and Benefits
3. Collaborative & Inclusive Culture

About Dominion Energy
I am your warm cup of coffee in the morning and I light your home at night. I am the cool breeze from your A/C on the hottest day in summer, and the red coil that heats your soup pot on a frigid winter's day. I am sustainable, reliable and affordable.
I am not just any energy... I am Dominion Energy.
We're transforming the way we do business to build a more sustainable future for the planet, our customers, our team and our industry. We're shaping the future of energy in America.
Join us!

Facts:
• 17,000 employees
• Headquarters: Richmond, VA
• 18 states in the US
• $100 billion of assets
• Nearly $35 million in charitable contributions
• 100,000+ volunteer hours recorded in the community
Our Commitment to Net Zero
Dominion Energy is committed to helping address climate change. We have cut emissions sharply as we aim for Net Zero carbon and methane emissions by 2050. Learn more at sustainability.dominionenergy.com.

What Dominion Energy employees say

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Dominion Energy logo

About Dominion Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a leader in the clean energy transition, with a clear strategy to achieve Net Zero carbon and methane emissions. Headquartered in Richmond, VA, we're creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Richmond, VA, US

Year founded

1983

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