1

Fire Apparatus Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fire Engineer

Montclair, CA ยท On-site

$89K - $108K/yr

... design, use, and maintenance of fire apparatus and equipment; emergency medical techniques; city and departmental policies, rules, and regulations; federal, state, and local laws governing fire ...

Firefighter Engineer

Davidson, NC ยท On-site

$57K - $60K/yr

The Firefighter Engineer must also be able to perform the duties of a Firefighter, which include ... Ensures fire apparatus are in a state of readiness after each incident * Inspects equipment for ...

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Direct supervision over Fire Apparatus Engineers, Firefighters, and extra-help or volunteer personnel as assigned. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Duties may include, but are not limited to ...

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Direct supervision over Fire Apparatus Engineers, Firefighters, and extra-help or volunteer personnel as assigned. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Duties may include, but are not limited to ...

As an Engineer at REV Fire, you will be responsible for developing world-class, robust engineering solutions to the Fire Apparatus industry, including the design and development of systems installed ...

New

The Engineer ensures that all apparatus is operated safely and efficiently during emergency and non-emergency situations to support fire suppression and emergency response activities as part of an ...

As an Engineer at REV Fire, you will be responsible for developing world-class, robust engineering solutions to the Fire Apparatus industry, including the design and development of systems installed ...

New

Firefighter Engineer

Morgan, UT ยท On-site

$23.50 - $24.50/hr

The Engineer ensures that all apparatus is operated safely and efficiently during emergency and non-emergency situations to support fire suppression and emergency response activities as part of an ...

Firefighter Engineer

Morgan, UT ยท On-site

$23.50 - $24.50/hr

The Engineer ensures that all apparatus is operated safely and efficiently during emergency and non-emergency situations to support fire suppression and emergency response activities as part of an ...

BME has manufactured apparatus for CAL FIRE, BLM, USFS, and municipal fire departments across the ... with other engineering teams to cover cross-principle demands of each design. Other ...

Spartan has a rich history in fire apparatus manufacturing with over 250 years of combined ... Applies knowledge of engineering principles to design products such as engines, instruments ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Fire Apparatus Design Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$91.6K

$136.5K

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

As of Jun 5, 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 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 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 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.

Infographic showing various Fire Apparatus Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,578 per year, or $44 per hour.

Fire Engineer

City of Montclair, CA

Montclair, CA โ€ข On-site

$89K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Salary : $89,095.08 - $108,295.80 Annually
Location : Montclair, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 20260519
Department: Fire Department
Opening Date: 05/19/2026
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: MFFA
The contents of the job bulletin should not be construed as an implied contract. All information is subject to change and the City is not bound to any information or errors contained in the bulletin.
This posting may close earlier than the indicated closing date if an excessive number of applications is received. The closing date may also be extended, or the job may be re-posted if an insufficient number of applications is received during the initial posting period.
Job Description
Under general supervision, drives assigned fire apparatus or other automotive equipment to scenes of emergencies; operates fire pumps, aerial devices, and other Fire Department equipment; assists in suppression of fires and the mitigation of other emergency incidents; performs inspection, preventive maintenance and minor repairs of Department apparatus and equipment; participates in fire prevention inspections, pre-fire planning and public education presentations; and performs related duties as required.
Essential Job Duties
(include but are not limited to the following)
Responds to fire and other emergency alarms by driving assigned fire apparatus or other automotive equipment; assists in fire suppression activities; protects life and property; performs as truck company supervisor when assigned; administers emergency medical aid; inspects, services, and maintains assigned fire equipment; inspects residential and commercial occupancies as assigned and ensures compliance with federal, state, and local fire prevention laws and regulations; participates and instructs firefighters in maintaining fire stations, quarters, grounds, and equipment; performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs of fire apparatus and instructs firefighters in these duties; maintains competency in training and instruction programs through individual study and attendance at drills and classes; assists in training and evaluating probationary firefighters when assigned; performs other firefighting and fire prevention duties; periodically performs out of classification on an interim or temporary basis; assists fire captains in some collateral responsibilities such as record keeping and research and development functions; conducts specialized educational programs; and performs public relations activities in the interest of fire prevention and safety as directed by departmental supervisor.
ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
This class reports to a Fire Captain and is a promotional class from Firefighter, with emphasis on technical, legal, and leadership skills; and may act as a company commander.
Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of: Principles of hydraulics as applied to fire suppression; modern fire prevention and suppression strategy and tactics; hazardous materials and caustic substances; design, use, and maintenance of fire apparatus and equipment; emergency medical techniques; city and departmental policies, rules, and regulations; federal, state, and local laws governing fire prevention and safety; location of water mains and fire hydrants in the district; geography of the city, district, and automatic aid areas; and basic principles of accepted supervisory practices and organizational relationships.
Skills/Ability to: Operate fire trucks, pumpers, aerial devices, and other large equipment safely, efficiently, and effectively under adverse conditions; work under pressure and in hazardous situations; perform duties requiring physical endurance and agility; learn a variety of legal and technical material; develop and maintain records and reports; maintain effective working relationships with employees, supervisors, and the public; and maintain required level of competency in the appropriate areas of fire science.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Graduation from High School or G.E.D. required. At least two years of paid full-time experience as a Firefighter with a public agency.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS
1. A valid California Driver License with a Firefighter endorsement.
2. A valid Emergency Medical Technician Certificate or Paramedic License required.
3. A valid Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR/BLS) certificate.
4. Driver Operator 1A and 1B completion certificate.
5. Complete San Bernardino County Sheriff Emergency Vehicle Operations Center (EVOC) course by the end of probation.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
In the performance of daily activities, this position requires the ability to sit, stand, and walk for up to two hours at a time. Must be able to reach, grasp, twist, turn, and bend. The ability to climb, stoop, knee, squat, run, and jump. Must be able to lift, drag, and pull heavy objects up to 150 pounds. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions including cold, wet, and hot with extreme sun exposure.
SELECTION PROCESS (Read Carefully)
1. All applicants must hold required licenses and certificates as required to be considered.
2. Upload proof of all required licenses/certificates listed below under the "Attachments" section of the application:
Required Documents to Attach to the Online Application
  • High School Diploma, G.E.D., or transcript showing completion.
  • Valid California Driver's License with Firefighter endorsement.
  • Valid Emergency Medical Technician Certificate or Paramedic License
  • Valid Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR/BLS) certificate.
  • Driver Operator 1A Certificate.
  • Driver Operator 1B Certificate.

Failure to provide proof of the required documents above may lead to disqualification during the screening process.
3. All applications received will be screened in relation to the criteria outline in this job announcement. Candidates will be reviewed and only those determined to be the most qualified on the basis of experience, training and education, as submitted will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Meeting the minimum requirements listed in this job announcement does not guarantee advancement in subsequent phases of the selection process. The selection process may be changed as deemed necessary by the City Human Resources Department.
4. Top candidates will be invited to a written examination on a future date (to be determined). The written examination will be a multiple choice pass/fail examination with a requirement of 70% in order to achieve a passing score. Questions on the written examination are sourced from the following publications: IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting 7th Edition; and IFSTA Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook 3rd Edition.
5. Candidates passing the written examination will be invited to participate in a structured oral interview and practical examination (Type 1 Engine pumping) on a future date (to be determined).
6. Successful candidates' names will be placed on an eligibility list from which a selection will be made. The candidate's total overall score throughout the testing process will be weighted according to the following: (Oral Interview - 50% of total score, Practical Pumping Assessment - 50% of total score). (Candidates must maintain a 70% or higher score on each section of the examination process for both oral interview as well as practical pumping assessment in order to move forward in the process.)
7. Candidates will be required to complete a Fire Chief's oral interview after the eligibility list is approved prior to hiring.
8. Final appointments will be made by the City Manager, upon the recommendation of the Fire Chief.
9. Candidate(s) must pass a thorough background investigation and pre-employment physical (including a drug screening) prior to hiring. **Note: Current Montclair Fire Department employees will be exempt from this requirement.
10. To complete your application for this position, you will be prompted to respond to supplemental questions. This information will be used as part of the application screening and selection process and is designed to help you present your qualifications for this position. This may include a selection step in which your application and supplemental questions are reviewed.
The City of Montclair is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Full-time employees are currently covered by the California Public Employees' Retirement System. The City contributes to medical, dental, and vision health plans for the employee with family coverage available. A term life insurance policy is paid by the City, as well as a long-term disability plan. To encourage employees to further their education in job-related fields, an educational subsidy is available upon completion of one-year probation.
Nonshift employees receive 80 hours of vacation after one year of service; 120 hours after five years of service; 160 hours after ten years of service; and 200 hours after 20 years of service. Shift employees receive 145.21 hours of vacation after one year of service; 217.79 hours after five years of service; and 290.40 hours after ten years of service. Sick leave accumulates at the rate of eight hours per month. The City may credit an employee who is coming from another governmental agency with one half of his/her accumulated sick leave up to a maximum of 240 hours. Presently, 104 hours of paid holidays are provided each year for nonshift employees and 157.29 hours of paid holidays are provided each year for shift employees.
01
Did you attach all required documentation as outlined in the "Required Documents" section of the job posting? All required documents (photocopies or pictures) are to be attached under the "attachment" section of the application.
  • Yes
  • No

02
By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • No, I do not agree

Required Question