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Fire Apparatus Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rev

Director, Product Management- Fire Group (Ocala)

Ocala, FL · On-site

$203K - $212K/yr

Manufacturing & Engineering Integration * Guide design-for-manufacturing, platform modularity, and ... Monitor fire apparatus market trends, technology developments, regulatory shifts, and competitor ...

Fairfax County

Fire Apparatus Mechanic

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$64K - $112K/yr

Fire Apparatus Technician - Level 1 F1 - Inspections, maintenance, and testing of fire apparatus (EVT) F2 - Design and performance standards of fire apparatus (EVT) Ambulance Technician - Level 1 E0 ...

REV Group

$171K - $180K/yr

Manufacturing & Engineering Integration * Guide design-for-manufacturing, platform modularity, and ... Monitor fire apparatus market trends, technology developments, regulatory shifts, and competitor ...

REV Group

Director, Product Management- Fire Group

Ocala, FL · On-site

$208K - $218K/yr

Manufacturing & Engineering Integration * Guide design-for-manufacturing, platform modularity, and ... Monitor fire apparatus market trends, technology developments, regulatory shifts, and competitor ...

CITY OF DECATUR

Fire Apparatus Operator

Decatur, GA · On-site

$61K - $65K/yr

Must have served as a Driver in a career fire department in a position such as Fire Apparatus Operator, Driver/Engineer, Engine or Quint Operator, or a comparable role requiring a department-issued ...

Fairfax County, VA

Fire Apparatus Mechanic

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$64K - $112K/yr

Mechanical engineer * None of the above 06 Are you currently in possession of an Emergency Vehicle ... F2 - Design and performance standards of fire apparatus (EVT) * E0 - Inspections, maintenance, and ...

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Fire Apparatus Design Engineer information

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$45.5K

$91.6K

$136.5K

How much do fire apparatus design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire apparatus design engineer in the United States is $91,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a fire apparatus design engineer do?

A Fire Apparatus Design Engineer is responsible for designing and developing specialized vehicles and equipment used by fire departments, such as fire trucks, pumpers, and aerial apparatus. They ensure that these vehicles meet industry safety standards, operational requirements, and client specifications. Their work involves collaborating with manufacturers, using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and often incorporating new technologies to improve functionality and efficiency. Fire Apparatus Design Engineers also test prototypes, address technical issues, and work with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by fire apparatus design engineers during the development process?

Fire Apparatus Design Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing complex safety requirements, customization needs from fire departments, and regulatory compliance. Designing vehicles that are both durable and able to accommodate specialized equipment can require creative problem-solving and close collaboration with manufacturing, safety experts, and end users. Additionally, engineers must stay updated on evolving standards and technologies to ensure the apparatus meets performance and reliability expectations. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and delivering robust, mission-critical vehicles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire apparatus design engineer, and why are they important?

A Fire Apparatus Design Engineer requires a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, experience with vehicle systems, and typically a relevant engineering degree or licensure. Familiarity with CAD software, hydraulic systems, and industry standards such as NFPA 1901 is essential, along with knowledge of compliance and safety certifications. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills are key soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the engineer can design safe, reliable, and regulation-compliant fire apparatus that meet the unique operational needs of fire departments.

What is the difference between Fire Apparatus Design Engineer vs Fire Equipment Technician?

AspectFire Apparatus Design EngineerFire Equipment Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like FE or PE often preferredHigh school diploma or technical training; certifications like NFPA or manufacturer-specific training
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing facilitiesFire stations, maintenance shops, on-site at fire departments
Industry UsageDesigning fire trucks and emergency vehiclesMaintaining, repairing, and testing fire equipment and vehicles

While both roles serve the fire service industry, the Fire Apparatus Design Engineer focuses on designing fire trucks and emergency vehicles, requiring engineering credentials and working mainly in design environments. In contrast, the Fire Equipment Technician maintains and repairs fire equipment, working directly at fire stations or maintenance facilities. Both roles are essential but differ in responsibilities, skills, and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Apparatus Design Engineer jobs?

For Fire Apparatus Design Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Fire Apparatus Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,578 per year, or $44 per hour.

Engineering Mgr. - Fire Apparatus Design

Easley, SC • On-site

Safe Industries
Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Safe Industriesexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:

The Engineering Manager – Fire Apparatus Design provides strategic leadership for engineering activities supporting Fire Equipment Services (FES), including new apparatus manufacturing, refurbishments, remounts, product development, and engineering standards. The role leads engineering staff, establishes best practices, ensures compliance with industry standards, and partners with manufacturing, service, sales, and operations to deliver high-quality fire apparatus.

Essential Functions & Core Responsibilities:
  • Lead and develop engineering staff.
  • Establish engineering standards and document control.
  • Review engineering drawings, BOMs, and design changes.
  • Support manufacturing, refurbishments, remounts, and product development.
  • Design apparatus bodies, tanks, pump modules, electrical systems, and chassis integrations.
  • Provide technical support across operations.
  • Ensure compliance with NFPA, FAMA, DOT, NHTSA, FMVSS, and OSHA.
  • Manage engineering schedules and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Support recruiting and performance development.
  • Collaborate with crossfunctional teams.
    • Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor degree in Engineering or related field.
  • 10+ years engineering experience with fire apparatus or heavy truck manufacturing.
  • 3+ years leading engineering teams.
  • Advanced SolidWorks and AutoCAD proficiency.
  • Strong project management and leadership skills.

    • Preferred Education, Certifications, and/or Experience

  • Refurbishment/remount experience.
  • SolidWorks PDM and NetSuite ERP experience.
  • Knowledge of GD&T, FEA and ECO processes.
  • PE license preferred.
    • Why This Role Matters:

    This role ensures FES delivers innovative, compliant, and high-quality fire apparatus while building engineering capability and supporting sustainable organizational growth.

    Equal Opportunity Employer:

    At Safe Industries, we believe in the value of your unique identity, background, and experiences. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or any other status protected by the law. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation due to a disability at any stage of the employment application process should contact Human Resources.

    Benefits:

    Medical

    Dental

    Vision

    Wellness Program

    Life Insurance

    Long Term Disability

    PTOHolidays

    401K vested on day 1; 5% employer match

    Easley, SC

    Onsite

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