1

Fire Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Description POSITION SUMMARY Take the next step in your fire protection engineering career. You'll perform fire protection design and calculations, spend time in the field, and maintain quality ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Deerfield, IL · 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 ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Take the next step in your fire protection engineering career. You'll perform fire protection design and calculations, spend time in the field, and maintain quality assurance ...

Fire Protection Engineer - Mid-Level PE, FPE Location: Chicago, IL or Atlanta, GA Exp Federal delivers full-service Architecture & Engineering services, construction, and facility management services ...

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) , an employee-owned firm, is seeking a curious, committed, and enthusiastic Fire Protection Engineer to join our dynamic and diverse team of engineers and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Fire Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$43.8K

$85.5K

$114.9K

How much do fire engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire engineer in Chicago, IL is $85,480.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $101,000.00 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, such as sprinklers and alarms, to prevent and control fires in buildings. They analyze fire risks, ensure compliance with safety codes, and often hold certifications like NFPA or FIA. Their work involves technical assessments, safety planning, and collaboration with architects and construction teams.

What engineers make $500,000?

High-earning engineers, such as senior software engineers, petroleum engineers, and aerospace engineers, can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and in leadership roles. These roles often require specialized knowledge, advanced degrees, and work in high-demand industries or senior management positions.

What is the highest salary of a fire engineer?

The highest salaries for fire engineers can exceed $100,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-cost-of-living areas. Senior fire engineers or those in managerial roles may earn even higher compensation, often supplemented by overtime, bonuses, or specialized skills in fire safety systems and code compliance.

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 requires completing relevant education, such as a degree in fire protection engineering or a related field, and gaining experience through training or apprenticeships. Certification and knowledge of fire safety codes and tools are also important, and the process can be competitive depending on the region and employer requirements.

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 job categories do people searching Fire Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Fire Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,480 per year, or $41.1 per hour.
Front Desk Engineer, Fire

Front Desk Engineer, Fire

Johnson Controls

Arlington Heights, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 401 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

Build your best future with the Johnson Controls team!

As a global leader in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, our mission is to reimagine the performance of buildings to serve people, places, and the planet.Join a winning team that enables you to build your best future! Our teams are uniquely positioned to support a multitude of industries across the globe. You will have the opportunity to develop yourself through meaningful work projects and learning opportunities.

We strive to provide our employees with an experience focused on supporting their physical, financial, and emotional wellbeing. Become a member of the Johnson Controls family and thrive in an empowering company culture where your voice and ideas will be heard - your next great opportunity is just a few clicks away!

We Offer

  • Competitive base salary and a comprehensive bonus program.

  • Three weeks paid vacation in a calendar year/holidays/sick time/three PTO days in a calendar year.

  • Comprehensive benefits package including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care - Available day one.

  • Extensive product and on the job/cross training opportunities

  • Encouraging and collaborative team environment

  • Dedication to safety through our Zero Harm policy

  • Providing Scheduling and management support.

  • JCI Employee discount programs (The Loop by Perk Spot)

Check us Out: A Day in a Life at Johnson Controls | Engineering Roles

What you will do

As the Front Desk Engineer (FDE), you will manage GCOE Operations in your sub-region by Line of Business, serving as a key Technical Advisor to our Sales Team. You will provide client-facing support throughout the sales process to enhance its quality. Collaborating with engineers across regions, you will drive sales success and influence strategic sales planning, ensuring our client engagements are of the highest technical quality and effectiveness.

How you will do it

Manage GCOE Operations and serve as a Technical Advisor to the Sales Team.

Provide client-facing support to enhance the sales process.

Collaborate with engineers to drive sales success and strategic planning.

Partner with local sellers and sales managers to:

o Own local relationships and be part of the commercial team.

o Analyze and qualify pipeline with the sales team weekly.

o Align presales technical support to develop winning strategies.

o Drive GCOE delivery of results, quality, and value-add to your territory.

o Leverage and utilize a team of GCOE resources.

o Own the strategy and achievement of Metrics & KPIs.

o Manage capacity utilization across multiple squads.

o Develop competency, training, and upskilling programs.

o Control KPIs and maintain EMEALA specific cadence around Ops reviews.

Lead engineering and solutions in the pre-sales phase, delivering compelling end-to-end solutions.

Oversee technical procurement for optimal cost solutions.

Identify risks and plan mitigation actions.

Coordinate systems design and inter-trade design with architects and construction managers.

Build artifacts and present/demonstrate to customers in coordination with Sales.

Provide consultation for high value/complex projects.

Interact with customers and consultants.

Support the sales team in product and service qualification, analysis, and presentation.

Identify new business opportunities and provide strategic input on sales strategies.

Build and maintain relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders.

Stay updated with industry trends and emerging technologies.

Mentor the pre-sales team on sales techniques and solution selling.

Develop a deep understanding of the organization's System Integration portfolio.

Coordinate with Cost Competitive Centers to optimize efficiencies.

Measure and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

Mentor employees on performance improvement and succession planning.

Ensure consistent field installation delivery through design plans and documentation.

Collaborate with the Training Manager to align COE team capabilities with sales objectives.

Review solution applications and cost estimates with the sales team.

Assist the sales team in articulating technical value propositions and presenting solutions to clients.

Engage in pre-sales design, cost development, applications engineering, product selection, specification interpretation, subcontractor RFP generation, proposal development, and project risk management.

Provide direction for outside vendors and subcontractors regarding scope, terms, conditions, bid forms, and contract review.

Reinforce methodologies for collecting, analyzing, and presenting solutions, designs, scopes, and cost estimates.

Identify specification issues, interpret discrepancies, and propose resolutions.

Stay updated on market trends and transitions.

Serve as an 'Ambassador' in the GCOE Connect Program, providing teaching, coaching, and mentorship from Sales to Engineering.

What we look for

Required

10+ years of experience in the Building Technology industry with 10+ years of Fire domain experience in design, engineering and/or solutions, pre-sales roles in organizations of repute.

Sound knowledge of systems and equipment with proficiency in solution innovation to create a clear differentiator through solutions.

Strong understanding of Johnson Controls products across Building Industry segments.

Excellent analytical, interpersonal, problem-solving skills, communication and presentation skills with ability to effectively convey complex technical information to non-technical audiences.

Proficient in PC skills.

Strong leadership and team management skills, with demonstrated ability to mentor and coach sales and pre-sales teams.

Understanding of regulations, certifications and industry standards.

Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Ability to work in a matrixed environment.

HIRING SALARY RANGE: $89,000 to $122,000 (Salary to be determined by the education, experience,
knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market
data.) This role offers a competitive Bonus plan that will take into account individual, group,
and corporate performance. This position includes a competitive benefits package. The
posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize
that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical
profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we
encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use
technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate
candidates. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please
visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers site at
https://jobs.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us

#LI-NC1

Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.


What Johnson Controls employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Johnson Controls logo

About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US