1

Fire Apparatus Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fire Apparatus Technician

Marietta, GA · On-site

$27.85 - $44.56/hr

May on occasion travel out-of-state to design, and inspect fire department vehicles, and OEM/ Dealer Level training manufacture specific to fire apparatus, water pumps and aerial systems. Performs ...

The employee participates in incident response, including operation of fire apparatus, firefighting ... Participates in fire prevention and public education programming, inspections and pre-incident ...

Fire Captain

Irvine, CA · On-site

$106K - $143K/yr

The applicant is a current Fire Apparatus Engineer with the OCFA * The applicant is on the current Fire Apparatus Engineer promotional list * The applicant has completed the formalized OCFA Fire ...

Fire Captain

Irvine, CA

$106K - $143K/yr

The applicant is a current Fire Apparatus Engineer with the OCFA The applicant is on the current Fire Apparatus Engineer promotional list The applicant has completed the formalized OCFA Fire ...

Mechanical Engineer This Mechanical Engineer role focuses on designing and developing world-class ... Extensive experience in fire apparatus design and documentation, with lean manufacturing expertise ...

Mechanical Engineer This Mechanical Engineer role focuses on designing and developing world-class ... Extensive experience in fire apparatus design and documentation, with lean manufacturing expertise ...

Fire Engineer

Landis, NC · On-site

$59K - $89K/yr

The Fire Engineer is responsible for providing fire protection, rescue operations, and emergency ... This role also involves operating and maintaining fire apparatus and related equipment in response ...

Fire Engineer

Landis, NC · On-site

$59K - $89K/yr

The Fire Engineer is responsible for providing fire protection, rescue operations, and emergency ... This role also involves operating and maintaining fire apparatus and related equipment in response ...

Fire Engineer

Montclair, CA · 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 ...

Fire Engineer

Landis, NC · On-site

$59K/yr

The Fire Engineer is responsible for providing fire protection, rescue operations, and emergency ... This role also involves operating and maintaining fire apparatus and related equipment in response ...

Showing results 21-40

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 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.

Fire Apparatus Engineer (Extra Help Only)

Mariposa, CA • On-site

$24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Salary: $24.00 Hourly
Location : Mariposa, CA
Job Type: Extra-Help (Part-time)
Job Number: 16-01107
Department: Fire
Opening Date: 12/06/2024
Description
DEFINITION
The Fire Apparatus Engineer supports Mariposa County Fire primarily by operating Class B or firefighter-restricted fire apparatus under general supervision. This role includes safely driving fire apparatus, performing maintenance on equipment, and assisting with fire suppression, rescue, and fire prevention tasks as needed.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
The Fire Apparatus Engineer operates advanced firefighting equipment, demonstrates sound independent decision-making, and interacts with the public tactfully and professionally. The position requires knowledge of fire codes, ordinances, laws, and regulations. The incumbent must possess strong organizational skills and the ability to learn and manage various programs, applying specialized training and experience in lifesaving and firefighting methods. This role involves significant physical exertion and exposure to potential health risks while using heavy protective gear and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) during emergency response.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
The Fire Apparatus Engineer reports to a Fire Captain or higher-ranking officer and provides general supervision to firefighters in emergency and non-emergency activities. This position may assume the role of Incident Commander until relieved by a higher-ranking officer.
Examples of Duties
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Safely drives and operates operating Class B or Fire Fighter restricted apparatus fire apparatus such as engines and Water Tenders.
Perform general maintenance and minor repair work for the assigned County fire stations, including but not limited to painting, cleaning, repairing water lines, etc.
Maintain the grounds of the assigned County Fire Stations by sweeping, weed control, pruning, watering, trimming, mowing, fertilizing, and maintaining the irrigation systems.
Work with and assists Fire Prevention Inspectors with the general public to conduct fire safety presentations and inspections and provide information regarding fire prevention.
Respond to emergency calls, fire alarms, and non-emergency calls to perform necessary firefighting and medical responder work.
Perform a variety of routine Firefighting skills and techniques, including safely operating tools and equipment that assist and/or are required to perform such tasks.
Work within immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) conditions such as enters burning buildings to remove persons from danger or as a coordinated strategy/tactic to prevent further fire damage; performs salvage and overhaul tactics as directed; ventilates by breaching walls or roofs inside/outside and top of buildings to release heat and smoke; places salvage covers to prevent damage; overhauls and cleans up after a fire to prevent rekindling; checks fire scene for point of origin and source of ignition, and preserves evidence which may indicate arson or cause of fire.
Participate in drills and training sessions; compiles and submits information on equivalent runs, accidents, and fire inspections.
Minimum Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
Any combination equivalent to experience and training that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be:
High School Diploma or GED.
Certification in Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator 1A and 1B Pumping Apparatus Operations through the State Fire Marshal.
Valid Class B or firefighter-restricted apparatus driver's license with eligibility for the County's vehicle insurance program.
Successful completion of Physical Agility Test (California Physical Ability Test (CPAT) or North County Regional Physical Abilities Test (NCRPAT)) or successful completion of the Mariposa County physical agility exam. (Candidates must provide a copy of current CPAT/NCRPAT card of completion at the time of selection interview).
Certification in Title 22-compliant Public Safety First Aid and CPR or higher.
Preferred:
Completion of a Firefighter I Academy (SFT IFSAAC/Proboard Firefighter I, CAL FIRE FF1A, FF1B, FF1C or equivalent).
Two (2) years of firefighter experience.
Additional Requirements: As a condition of employment, all prospective employees shall be required to be fingerprinted (Live Scan).
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Knowledge of:
Building construction, fire chemistry, physics, and automotive mechanics.
Current local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to the safety and protection of people, property, and grounds associated with the County and its surrounding areas.
Fire prevention methods and procedures, including fire scene preservation for investigation and identification of cause and origin.
Fire management and control procedures and prevention techniques.
Disaster preparedness response strategies.
Principles of human behavior and behavior modification strategies and techniques to identify at-risk people.
Emergency communication techniques, including equipment and its use.
Use and care of fire safety measures and control tactics.
Safe driving principles and practices.
Safety policies and safe work practices applicable to the work being performed.
Local geography, County streets, state highways, public buildings, and businesses.
Principles and practices of sound business communication, including proper English usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Record keeping and report preparation techniques to ensure department compliance.
Standard office practices and procedures and the operations of standard office equipment.
Fire pump theory as it relates to fire apparatus.
Pre-fire plan development for risk mitigation.
Ability to:
React calmly, make sound decisions, and show flexibility in emergency situations.
Represent the department effectively in interactions with other agencies, the media, and the public.
Promote equity and inclusion by fostering a culturally responsive, respectful service environment.
Exercise sound judgment, adaptability, and creativity in response to changing situations and needs.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with colleagues, community members, and other stakeholders.
Interpret and apply departmental policies, procedures, laws, and codes accurately and consistently.
Manage multiple tasks with efficiency, maintains detailed records, and prepare reports that ensure departmental compliance.
Meet department fitness standards, perform strenuous activities in emergencies, and maintain composure under high-stress conditions.
Skill to:
Build trust and confidence in the Fire Department and CAL FIRE through positive interactions and public engagement.
Communicate respectfully and effectively with Chief Officers, staff, and the public; able to adapt messages for audiences with different levels of knowledge.
Make clear and effective oral presentations to diverse audiences.
Calculate fire pump applications accurately, operating firefighting tools, and using standard business software.
Gather, evaluate, and interpret information to apply relevant policies, laws, and codes effectively.
Demonstrate tact, diplomacy, and respect when dealing with sensitive issues and people in challenging situations.
Extra-Help employees are not entitled to County benefits.
01
One of the requirements of this position is a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Do you have a high school diploma or GED equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Initial if you have read and understand the minimum qualifications for this position. Additionally, you have attached all supporting documents representing proof of minimum qualifications.
Required Question