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Fire Protection Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Fire Protection Engineer (50265)

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

Design and lead fire protection solutions that safeguard people, property, and mission-critical operations. At MIRACORP, we don't just support federal agencies--we set the standard for quality and ...

Fire Protection Planner

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Dudek's team has been working in the wildfire assessment and fire protection planning field for ... Additional desired qualifications include excellent writing skills and GIS/CAD mapping skills.

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Protection Design information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$75K

$114.5K

How much do fire protection design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection design in California is $75,039.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $91,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the common challenges faced by Fire Protection Design professionals when working on multi-disciplinary construction projects?

Fire Protection Design professionals often encounter challenges in coordinating with architects, structural engineers, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) teams to ensure their systems integrate seamlessly with other building systems. Navigating varying code requirements across jurisdictions and keeping up with evolving fire safety standards can also add complexity to the role. Effective communication, meticulous documentation, and proactive problem-solving are essential for overcoming these challenges and delivering compliant, functional designs.

What is the difference between Fire Protection Design vs Fire Protection Engineering?

AspectFire Protection DesignFire Protection Engineering
CredentialsTypically requires certifications like NICET Level 2/3, relevant degrees in fire protection or engineeringRequires engineering degree and professional engineering (PE) license
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, construction sites, client meetingsDesign offices, research labs, project sites, regulatory agencies
Industry UsageFocuses on creating fire safety systems and plansInvolves analysis, calculations, and system optimization for fire safety

Fire Protection Design professionals primarily develop fire safety plans and system layouts, often working with codes and client needs. Fire Protection Engineering involves a deeper analysis, calculations, and system optimization, often requiring a PE license. Both roles are essential in the fire safety industry but differ in scope and technical depth.

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

To thrive as a Fire Protection Designer, you need a solid background in engineering or architecture, knowledge of fire codes, and experience with fire protection systems, often supported by relevant certifications like NICET. Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and specialized fire modeling software is typically required to develop precise system layouts and documentation. Strong attention to detail, effective problem-solving, and clear communication help you collaborate with project teams and ensure regulatory compliance. These skills are crucial for designing safe, efficient fire protection systems that safeguard people and property.

What is fire protection design?

Fire protection design is the process of planning and implementing systems and measures to prevent, control, and mitigate the effects of fire in buildings and structures. This includes designing fire detection and alarm systems, fire sprinkler systems, smoke control, and safe evacuation routes. Fire protection designers work to ensure that buildings comply with fire codes and safety regulations, helping to protect lives and property in the event of a fire.
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Design job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,039 per year, or $36.1 per hour.
Fire Protection Engineer

Fire Protection Engineer

Holmes

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$92K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

๐Ÿ”ฅElevate your Fire Protection Engineering career at Holmes US! ๐Ÿš€
Are you a Fire Protection Engineer with a few years of experience ready to step into a role where your expertise truly drives outcomes? We're looking for FPEs to join our team and take ownership of high-impact work from day one.
Who We Are: We're Holmes US - an international design firm where engineering meets innovation! With offices across the West Coast and roots in New Zealand, we're known for pushing boundaries and asking "why not?" when others say "impossible."
Your Role as a Fire Protection Engineer:
  • Lead complex Performance Based Fire Engineering analysis and design from start to finish
  • Direct fire and smoke modelling using Fire Dynamics Simulator (NIST) and similar tools
  • Lead occupant evacuation modelling using Pathfinder, Evacnet, and advanced spreadsheet methods
  • Apply deep engineering judgement to assess structural systems exposed to fire
  • Author and QC high-quality engineering reports and deliver innovative, defensible solutions
  • Manage client relationships and serve as a trusted technical point of contact
  • Coordinate with consultants and enforcing agencies to navigate complex regulatory environments
  • Lead audits of existing buildings for fire safety compliance
  • Mentor and review the work of junior engineers and EITs, helping grow the next generation
  • Develop fee proposals and lead scope negotiations for complex projects
  • Contribute to business development and marketing initiatives
  • Maybe even pick up some Mฤori words from our Kiwi colleagues!

You'll Thrive Here If You Have:
  • B.S. in Fire Protection Engineering or related discipline (M.S. preferred)
  • 4+ years of experience in a fire safety consultancy or related field
  • Active PE licensure
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong time management and problem-solving capabilities
  • Proficiency in MS Word, Outlook, Excel, and fire modelling tools
  • A collaborative, team-player mindset ready to help others

Why You'll Love It Here:
๐ŸŒŸ Learning & Growth
  • Step into a role with genuine autonomy and project ownership
  • Global knowledge sharing opportunities across the Pacific Rim
  • Clear career progression path toward senior roles

๐Ÿ’ช Real World Impact
  • Lead complex, high-profile projects across diverse building types
  • Apply cutting-edge fire engineering to protect real communities
  • Contribute to life safety and sustainable design

๐ŸŽฏ The Good Stuff
  • Flexible hybrid work environment
  • Comprehensive benefits (including pet insurance!)
  • Genuine work-life balance
  • Collaborative, supportive culture
  • Regular team events and activities

Benefits Offered:
Depending on your employment status, benefits may include:
  • Hybrid work model (in office Tues, Wed, Thurs)
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Short-term and Long-term Disability and other voluntary plans
  • Flexible Spending Accounts for Medical & Childcare
  • Health Savings Account
  • Pet Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Time off - Vacation, Sick, Personal Leave, Family Leave for new parents, and Community Service time
  • Paid Holidays
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Transit
  • 401(k) retirement savings with Company contribution
  • Company sponsored events
  • Diversity / Inclusion programs and initiatives

Compensation: Estimated at $92,000 - $119,000 + biannual profit share bonus potential. Salary will be commensurate with experience / skills and location.
Our Commitment: At Holmes, we believe in building teams as diverse as the communities we serve. We provide equal support and opportunities for all our people to thrive, grow, and develop. Dream big - we'll help you get there!
If you're ready to bring your experience to a team that will actually put it to use - and challenge you to grow even further - we'd love to hear from you. Apply now and help us write the next chapter of engineering excellence! ๐Ÿ—
#LI-hybrid