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Fire Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Merced

Fire Fighter II

Merced, CA · On-site

$6.7K - $8.2K/mo

Serve as an acting Fire Engineer, as needed. Perform related duties as required. Typical Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter ...

City of Merced, CA

Fire Fighter II

Merced, CA · On-site

$6.7K - $8.2K/mo

Serve as an acting Fire Engineer, as needed. * Perform related duties as required. Typical Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter ...

City of El Centro (CA)

Firefighter

El Centro, CA · On-site

$5.3K/mo

May serve as Fire Engineer, as assigned. Serves on callback status to respond to major emergencies. Performs other related duties as assigned. The preceding activities have been provided as examples ...

General Matter

Fire Protection Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$89K - $120K/yr

As our Fire Protection Engineer, you'll be more than just a technical expert; you'll be the strategic mind behind ensuring the safety and efficiency of all our facilities. This isn't your typical ...

General Matter

Fire Protection Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

As our Fire Protection Engineer, you'll be more than just a technical expert; you'll be the strategic mind behind ensuring the safety and efficiency of all our facilities. This isn't your typical ...

Telgian Corporation

Fire Protection Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

The Fire Protection Engineer provides fire protection engineering and consultation services, support, and deliverables for Telgian clients as part of multi-discipline team. Provides fire protection ...

Blueprint Hires

Fire Protection Engineer

Palo Alto, CA

$97K - $131K/yr

A multi-disciplinary architectural, engineering and construction firm is seeking a Fire Protection Engineer to help them ensure the safety and compliance of their facilities by providing expert ...

City of El Centro, CA

Firefighter

El Centro, CA · On-site

$5.3K/mo

May serve as Fire Engineer, as assigned. * Serves on callback status to respond to major emergencies. * Performs other related duties as assigned. The preceding activities have been provided as ...

Oklo

Fire Protection Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site +1

$80K - $155K/yr

Position Description Fire Protection Engineers at Oklo are responsible for the design and development of the fire protection systems in Oklo's power plants. Specific responsibilities may include:

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All JobsFire Engineer JobsFire Engineer Jobs in California

Fire Engineer information

See California salary details

$41.9K

$81.9K

$110K

How much do fire engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire engineer in California is $81,892.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Fire Engineer vs Fire Safety Officer?

AspectFire EngineerFire Safety Officer
CredentialsFire engineering degree, certifications in fire safety and risk assessmentFire safety training, certifications in fire prevention and safety protocols
Work EnvironmentDesigning fire protection systems, conducting risk assessments, working on construction sitesInspecting premises, enforcing safety regulations, conducting safety drills
Employer & IndustryConstruction firms, engineering consultancies, industrial facilitiesGovernment agencies, corporate safety departments, facilities management

Fire Engineers focus on designing and implementing fire protection systems and conducting risk assessments, often working in construction and industrial settings. Fire Safety Officers primarily enforce safety regulations, conduct inspections, and ensure compliance within various organizations. While both roles require fire safety knowledge, Fire Engineers are more involved in system design, whereas Fire Safety Officers focus on safety enforcement and training.

What does a fire engineer do?

A fire engineer designs and evaluates fire protection systems, conducts risk assessments, and ensures compliance with safety standards. They often work with building codes, fire suppression systems, and may require certifications such as Fire Protection Engineering credentials.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior software engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fire Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Engineer, you need a solid background in fire protection engineering, building codes, and risk assessment, typically supported by a degree in engineering and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or CFPS. Familiarity with fire modeling software, CAD systems, and fire alarm and suppression systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help in designing safe structures and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills are crucial for ensuring building safety, code compliance, and effective fire prevention strategies.

Is it hard to become a fire engineer?

Becoming a fire engineer typically requires completing relevant education, such as a degree in fire protection engineering or a related field, and obtaining necessary certifications like a Professional Engineer license. The role also demands practical experience, strong problem-solving skills, and knowledge of fire safety systems, which can make the path challenging but achievable with dedication. Continuous training and staying updated on safety standards are also important for career advancement.

How does a Fire Engineer typically collaborate with architects and construction teams during a building project?

Fire Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring fire safety compliance throughout the design and construction phases of a project. They regularly consult with architects to integrate fire protection systems, egress routes, and safety features without compromising the building's aesthetics or functionality. Fire Engineers also work closely with construction teams to ensure fire safety measures are properly implemented and adhere to local codes and regulations. This collaborative approach helps identify potential issues early and ensures the final structure is both safe and compliant.

What are Fire Engineers?

Fire Engineers are professionals who apply engineering principles to protect people, property, and the environment from the harmful effects of fire and smoke. They design systems and strategies for fire prevention, detection, and suppression in buildings and other structures. Their responsibilities include assessing fire risks, developing evacuation plans, ensuring compliance with fire codes and regulations, and investigating fire incidents to determine causes. Fire Engineers often work with architects, builders, and emergency services to enhance overall fire safety.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Fire engineers, or fire protection engineers, typically do not earn $300,000 annually. High salaries in engineering fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can reach or exceed this level, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. Salary potential varies based on industry, location, and expertise.
What are popular job titles related to Fire Engineer jobs in California? For Fire Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Fire Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Fire Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Engineer jobs in CA? For Fire Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Fire Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,892 per year, or $39.4 per hour.
Consulting Engineer/Senior Consulting Engineer, Fire Protection

Consulting Engineer/Senior Consulting Engineer, Fire Protection

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Do you want to help engineer what's next?
Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) is a national engineering firm committed to delivering holistic advice for our clients' most complex challenges. We leverage our collective and diverse experience, technical expertise, and industry knowledge of structures and building enclosures, advanced analysis, performance & code consulting, and applied science & research to deliver unrivaled, comprehensive solutions that drive superior performance. With 800 employees in offices nationwide, SGH's industry-leading teams constantly seek to advance the meaning of what's possible.
What makes careers at SGH so special?
The only way to advance is to question and explore. Every member of the SGH team is both a learner and an educator, committed to advancing ourselves, our teams, and our industry. Together we are creating a community that never settles for what is but always seeks what could be.
There are many reasons to love SGH:
  • Our Work: Our clients trust us to bring clarity and deliver outstanding solutions for their most complex projects.
  • Our People: We are bold thinkers and compassionate teammates, committed to lifelong learning and professional growth.
  • Our Commitment: We live with integrity and embrace an obligation to give back to our professions and communities.
  • Our Contribution: We offer a comprehensive and rich compensation and benefits package with company-paid and voluntary programs to help build healthy lifestyles, strong relationships, and future prosperity.

We want someone passionate about mechanical engineering and problem solving.
SGH is committed to building its emerging practice in Fire Protection Engineering and Fire Science by hiring an experienced and motivated expert in fire protection and fire science technology, with skills to manage and grow its present practice. SGH is seeking engineering professionals to lead our Fire Protection Engineering Group. The professional will work under the direction of the Division Head of Structural Mechanics to provide senior leadership and direction for the group's future, as well as provide technical guidance on and participate in design, rehabilitation, and investigation fire engineering projects.
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Provide fire protection engineering consulting services.
  • Guide the growth and development of the fire protection engineering group at SGH.
  • Manage the fire protection engineering staff.
  • Recommend strategies to keep SGH at the leading edge of relevant technologies.
  • Manage project work, including budgets, staff, and client relations.
  • Provide support for and participate in forensic and litigation activities.
  • Interface with building and fire officials.
  • Market fire engineering services and develop business for fire protection engineering.
  • Coordinate with other practice areas within SGH for the overall benefit of the company.
  • Attend and assume leadership roles in identified local and national professional organizations.
  • Prepare professional papers for publication.

What You'll Need:
  • MS or PhD in Fire Protection Engineering
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in fire protection engineering. Will consider more experienced applicants for Senior Consulting Engineer roles.
  • Professional Registration in fire protection engineering.
  • Extensive experience as project manager for different types of projects including building and fire code consulting; fire investigation; performance-based design; and fire, smoke, and egress modeling.
  • Working familiarity with fire and smoke modeling software.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Proven ability to market and sell fire engineering services.
  • Staff management experience.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Commitment to excellence and professionalism.
  • Commitment to embrace SGH's standards for work product delivery.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report.

Benefits Overview:
SGH provides the following benefits to eligible employees:
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation time, Sick leave, Holidays)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Profit Sharing and 401(k) plan with a discretionary company contribution
  • Health Insurance (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Short and Long-Term Disability (company paid)
  • Employee Basic Life and AD&D insurance (company paid)
  • Optional Life Insurance
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Fertility, Family Forming, and Hormonal Health benefit
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Empathy Bereavement Support
  • Pre-tax Commuter Benefit
  • AFLAC Accident & Cancer Insurance
  • Legal & Identity Theft plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Compensation:
The below range is a good faith estimate pursuant to applicable equal pay and pay transparency laws. The actual salary offered will be based on several factors including the candidate's experience, qualifications, work location and job title level.
Base salary is a part of SGH's industry leading Total Compensation package. Our Total Compensation package includes base salary, pay for extra hours worked, an annual discretionary bonus program, generous paid time off, and health and wellness benefits with a special emphasis on substantial SGH contributions to medical insurance premiums and SGH's Profit Sharing & 401(k) Plan.
This position is eligible for a $7,500 sign-on bonus.
Consulting Engineer, Consulting Architect or Project Consultant II:
$93,600-$120,120 USD
Sr. Consulting Engineer, Sr. Consulting Architect or Sr. Project Consultant:
$106,600-$149,240 USD
SGH is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal opportunities to all job applicants and employees. We consider all qualified applicants and encourage individuals with disabilities and protected veterans to apply. If the application system is not accessible to you, or you need a reasonable accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email jobs@sgh.com or call 781-907-9000 and ask for Human Resources.
TO ALL RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: SGH does not accept unsolicited agency resumes or candidate profiles. Please do not forward resumes or profiles for any of our job postings to our career site or to any Simpson Gumpertz & Heger employee. SGH is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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