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Fire Protection Design Engineer Jobs in California

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 ...

The Fire Protection Designer will be responsible for creating detailed fire protection system ... preparing CAD drawings and calculations, coordinating with project managers and engineers ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site +1

$80K - $155K/yr

Lead the design of fire protection equipment * Perform commissioning and testing of fire protection ... Engineering education, potentially Fire Protection, Nuclear, Chemical, or Mechanical * Experience ...

Lead the design of fire protection equipment * Perform commissioning and testing of fire protection ... Engineering education, potentially Fire Protection, Nuclear, Chemical, or Mechanical * Experience ...

Fire Protection / Plumbing Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$91K - $115K/yr

Fire Protection and Plumbing Engineer - Los Angeles, CA Our client is a Engineering Design and ... They provide design, commissioning, consulting and management expertise in the Critical Facilities ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Pasadena, CA ยท Hybrid

$90K - $122K/yr

Parsons Federal provides a broad array ofengineering design services to its clients for Fire and Life Safety Engineering and Fire Protection System Design. Specific Responsibilities: * Technical ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Pasadena, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $122K/yr

Parsons Federal provides a broad array of engineering design services to its clients for Fire and Life Safety Engineering and Fire Protection System Design. Specific Responsibilities: * Technical ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

Our goal is to design, build, and operate the world's lowest-cost enrichment services in the United ... As our Fire Protection Engineer, you'll be more than just a technical expert; you'll be the ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

Our goal is to design, build, and operate the world's lowest-cost enrichment services in the United ... As our Fire Protection Engineer, you'll be more than just a technical expert; you'll be the ...

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Fire Sprinkler Designer & Drafter

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

Experience with SprinkCAD or similar fire protection design software. * Familiarity with BIM coordination and 3D modeling processes. Company Description Nexus Engineering is a trusted leader in ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Santa Fe Springs, CA ยท On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Experienced with assessment and design of facility life safety systems * Thorough knowledge and ... Science in Fire Protection Engineering. * Possess a minimum of 3 to 5 years of related work ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Palo Alto, CA ยท On-site

$97K - $131K/yr

Overseeing fire protection engineering design projects from proposal preparation to system testing and commissioning. * Taking responsibility for complete fire protection system designs, including ...

Fire Protection Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$92K - $119K/yr

Who We Are: We're Holmes US - an international design firm where engineering meets innovation! With ... S. in Fire Protection Engineering or related discipline (M.S. preferred) * 4+ years of experience ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$92K - $119K/yr

Who We Are: We're Holmes US - an international design firm where engineering meets innovation! With ... S. in Fire Protection Engineering or related discipline (M.S. preferred) * 4+ years of experience ...

Fire Protection Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$92K - $119K/yr

Who We Are: We're Holmes US - an international design firm where engineering meets innovation! With ... S. in Fire Protection Engineering or related discipline (M.S. preferred) * 4+ years of experience ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Protection Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$98.2K

$170.2K

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 California is $98,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $110,500.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs in California? For Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Design Engineer jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Design Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,213 per year, or $47.2 per hour.
Fire Protection Design Engineer

Fire Protection Design Engineer

K2 Staffing, LLC

San Diego, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$97K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

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 ideal for an engineer with 3โ€“6 years of experience seeking continued professional growth in fire suppression and fire alarm system design. The position is based in San Diego, CA and offers a hybrid work schedule (3 days in-office / 2 days remote).

Duties & Responsibilities
  • Fire Protection System Design

    • Support the design of fire sprinkler, fire alarm, and special suppression systems

    • Develop fire protection system layouts and construction documents

    • Perform sprinkler hydraulic calculations

    • Perform fire alarm calculations

  • Code Analysis & Compliance

    • Conduct Fire and Building Code analysis

    • Apply California Building and Fire Codes

    • Implement NFPA standards in system design

  • Engineering Analysis & Technical Support

    • Assist in developing engineering analyses, including smoke control, combustible dust, hazardous materials, and energy storage systems

    • Conduct site assessments and prepare related reports

  • Construction Administration

    • Respond to RFIs during construction

    • Review contractor submittals

    • Participate in punch walks and construction support activities

  • Collaboration & Growth

    • Support senior engineers in project delivery

    • Contribute to continuous improvement and technical development initiatives

Qualifications & Requirements
  • Education & Experience

    • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field

    • 3โ€“6 years of experience in fire suppression and/or fire alarm system design

  • Technical Skills

    • Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit

    • Experience with AutoSPRINK or HydraCALC sprinkler calculation software

    • Strong understanding of California Building and Fire Codes

    • Working knowledge of NFPA standards and implementation

  • Certifications

    • EIT certification preferred

    • NICET Fire Sprinkler or Fire Alarm certification preferred

    • U.S. Citizenship preferred

  • Preferred Experience

    • Experience working on healthcare and/or federal projects

    • Exposure to project management or business development activities is a plus

Benefits
  • Compensation

    • Salary range: $97,700 โ€“ $130,000 annually (dependent on experience)

  • Retirement

    • 401(k) plan with dollar-for-dollar company match up to 4% of eligible pay

    • Immediate vesting

  • Health & Insurance

    • Medical, dental, and vision coverage

    • Prescription drug coverage

    • Employee Assistance Program

    • Accident and illness coverage

    • Employer-paid life insurance and AD&D (base coverage with voluntary buy-up options)

    • Employer-paid disability insurance

  • Time Off

    • Flexible non-accrual vacation policy

    • Company-recognized holidays

    • Separate California-compliant paid sick leave (where applicable)

  • Work Schedule

    • Hybrid schedule: 3 days in-office / 2 days remote

    • Full-time employment