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Fire Protection Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

K2 Staffing

Fire Protection Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$97K - $130K/yr

Summary The Fire Protection Design Engineer is responsible for supporting the design and analysis of fire protection and life safety systems across a diverse range of projects. This mid-level role is ...

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Fire Protection Design Engineer information

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$45.5K

$99.5K

$172.5K

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

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection design engineer in the United States is $99,516.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the main challenges Fire Protection Design Engineers face when coordinating with other disciplines on a project?

Fire Protection Design Engineers often work closely with architects, mechanical, electrical, and structural engineers to ensure that fire safety systems are seamlessly integrated into building designs. A common challenge is managing conflicting requirements or space constraints, especially in complex or retrofitted structures. Effective communication and early involvement in the design process are key to resolving these issues. Collaborating proactively helps ensure compliance with codes and standards while meeting project timelines and client expectations.

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

To thrive as a Fire Protection Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, fire codes, and building regulations, typically supported by a degree in fire protection, mechanical, or civil engineering and relevant licensure. Proficiency in CAD software, hydraulic calculations, and familiarity with NFPA standards are essential technical qualifications, and certifications like NICET can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with clients, architects, and construction teams. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, compliant, and efficient design of fire protection systems in buildings.

What does a Fire Protection Design Engineer do?

A Fire Protection Design Engineer specializes in designing systems and strategies to prevent, control, and mitigate the effects of fire in buildings and other structures. Their responsibilities include creating detailed plans for fire alarm, suppression, and sprinkler systems, ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations, and coordinating with architects and construction teams. They also conduct fire risk assessments, select appropriate materials and technologies, and may be involved in inspecting and testing fire protection systems after installation.

What is the difference between Fire Protection Design Engineer vs Fire Sprinkler Designer?

AspectFire Protection Design EngineerFire Sprinkler Designer
CredentialsEngineering degree, PE license often preferredCertification in fire sprinkler design, such as NICET
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, consulting companies, construction projectsFire sprinkler companies, design firms, contractors
ResponsibilitiesDesigning comprehensive fire protection systems including alarms, suppression, detectionDesigning and drafting fire sprinkler systems specifically

The Fire Protection Design Engineer typically has a broader scope, including various fire safety systems, while the Fire Sprinkler Designer specializes in sprinkler system design. Both roles require technical knowledge and certifications, but the engineer often oversees entire fire protection plans, whereas the sprinkler designer focuses on specific system components.

More about Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Fire Protection Design Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs are:
Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,516 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Fire Protection Design Engineer

Edgewater Technical Associates

Aiken, SC • On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Edgewater Technical Associates is seeking qualified candidates for a Fire Protection Design Engineer opportunity to support the Savannah River Site.
Work Location: Aiken, SC
Fire Protection Design Engineer-
The Fire Protection Design Engineer will support design changes affecting fire protection systems, fire barriers, life safety, egress, and fire risk features for industrial facility modifications.
Duties:
  • Evaluate design changes for impacts to fire detection, suppression, fire barriers, fire areas, and egress.
  • Prepare or review fire protection calculations, design documents, and system modifications.
  • Support facility modifications involving hazardous materials, process areas, ventilation interactions, and support spaces.
  • Coordinate with mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and structural engineering teams.
  • Participate in design reviews and hazard evaluations related to fire and life safety.

Education/Experience:
  • BS in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
  • Experience in fire protection design or system evaluation.
  • Knowledge of life safety and fire protection fundamentals.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in industrial or hazardous facilities.
  • Familiarity with suppression, detection, and fire barrier design.

Other Job Requirements:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a DOE security clearance.

If you are interested in being considered for this position, please follow the application steps via our website: www.edgewatertech.net/careers
Edgewater Technical Associates will not submit your resume without first having detailed discussions with you and obtaining your permission to do so. We look forward to hearing from you!
WORKING WITH EDGEWATER TECHNICAL ASSOCIATES
Founded in 2003, Edgewater Technical Associates, LLC (Edgewater) is a New Mexico-based small business headquartered in Los Alamos, NM, with five (5) regional offices across the United States to locally support our growing presence at project sites. Edgewater has a proven track record and is a trusted provider of fixed-price construction projects, engineering, and technical services for the Department of Energy (DOE), National Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Canadian Commercial Nuclear Industry, and private sector commercial contractors involved in nuclear, high-hazard, or complex operations. Edgewater's experience and guidance ensure that our customers perform hazardous operations, comply with regulatory requirements, and maintain the highest quality and safety standards.
Edgewater is committed to recruiting and maintaining a staff of highly skilled professionals to support our customers. In keeping with this objective, we offer highly competitive salaries and employee benefit packages structured to best suit your needs. We offer multiple individual and family benefit options including paid time off, medical, dental, life, vision, and disability insurance, and a pre- and post-tax 401 (k) retirement account with Company matching contributions and 100% vesting for eligible participants beginning DAY 1.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Edgewater is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veterans, or individuals with disabilities in accordance with EO 14173.
View all Edgewater job opportunities at www.edgewatertech.net/careers

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