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Fire Protection Design Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Fire Protection Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

In this role, you will prepare design and procurement documents relating to Fire Protection and provide technical leadership in the design and development of fire protection systems and equipment for ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

We are seeking an exceptional Fire Protection Engineer to design, implement, and optimize advanced fire protection and life safety systems for xAI's high-density AI supercomputing facilities and on ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

We are seeking an exceptional Fire Protection Engineer to design, implement, and optimize advanced fire protection and life safety systems for xAI's high-density AI supercomputing facilities and on ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

We are seeking an exceptional Fire Protection Engineer to design, implement, and optimize advanced fire protection and life safety systems for xAI's high-density AI supercomputing facilities and on ...

Opportunity to work alongside some of the best talent in the fire protection industry Under the guidance of the Design Manager, the Fire Sprinkler designer will assist in the preparation of NFPA ...

Opportunity to work alongside some of the best talent in the fire protection industry Under the guidance of the Design Manager, the Fire Sprinkler designer will assist in the preparation of NFPA ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Protection Design information

See Tennessee salary details

$28.1K

$69K

$105.3K

How much do fire protection design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection design in Tennessee is $69,010.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $84,000.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Fire Protection Design jobs in Tennessee? For Fire Protection Design jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Design jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Design jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Fire Protection Design jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Fire Protection Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Design job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,010 per year, or $33.2 per hour.
Mechanical Fire Protection Engineer

Mechanical Fire Protection Engineer

Bechtel

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago


Bechtel rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

145th of 357 rated engineering


Job description

Requisition ID: 296244 

  •  Relocation Authorized: National - Family 
  • Telework Type: Part-Time Telework 
  • Work Location: Knoxville, TN
Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:

Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place. 

Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations. 

Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report. 

Project Overview:

Bechtel is the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) partner on the Northrop Grumman team to deliver the Sentinel Program, which is modernizing the ground-based leg of the U.S. nuclear deterrent triad, including intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) systems and launch infrastructure. Bechtel’s scope of service in Sentinel’s current Engineering & Manufacturing Development phase focuses on the ground infrastructure component of the program.

A major contractor for the United States and allied governments, Bechtel has handled such efforts as chemical weapons demilitarization projects, missile-defense, infrastructure, base operations, procurement and project management, and restoration and recovery spanning half a century. We use our expertise to help our customers securely and effectively transform mission delivery.

Job Summary:

In this role, you will prepare design and procurement documents relating to Fire Protection and provide technical leadership in the design and development of fire protection systems and equipment for the Sentinel project. You will develop calculations, construction drawings, Fire Protection Design Analysis Reports (FPDAR), tailored Unified Facilities Guide Specifications (UFGS), requisition specifications, review and approve sub-contractors’ submittals, and assist in determining needed changes and with final testing. Your work will lead the implementation of programs and procedures that promote fire safety. The successful candidate must have strong organization and teamwork skills, proven problem-solving skills, can-do attitude, and the design to innovate designs.

Major Responsibilities:
  • Executes assignments in Fire Protection Engineering for the Sentinel (GBSD) project.
  • Has technical responsibility for interpreting, organizing, and coordinating Fire Protection issues with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Develops deliverables including calculations, construction drawings, tailored Unified Facilities Guide Specifications (UFGS), and requisition specifications.
  • Support the development and maintenance of the Fire Protection Design Analysis Report (FPDAR) for the facilities utilizing recognized fire protection industry approaches, methodologies, calculations, and analyses.
  • Support project needs for design, design review, installation, commissioning, code interpretations, and walk downs at the facility as needed to support project deadlines. Independently apply the principles of fire safety in the development and maintenance of the FPDAR program.
  • Support Construction and Startup on an as needed basis.
  • Interface with internal and external customers, as required, for the design, installation, and testing of the passive and active fire protection systems and components.
  • Support Department of Defense (DOD) or other external regulatory agency reviews of the fire protection aspects of the design and installation on the project.
  • Interface with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) including authoring equivalencies and exemptions.
  • Perform Fire Protection reviews to determine compliance with applicable Unified Facilities Criteria (UFCs), DOD orders, NFPA standards, and FM standards.
  • Support fire protection subcontracts, including review of various types of documents and being the technical point of contact.
Education and Experience Requirements:
  • Level 1: Requires a bachelor’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering (or related) and a minimum of 1 year of relevant professional work experience.
  • Level 2: Requires a bachelor’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering (or related) and a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional work experience.
  • Must be a U.S citizen.
  • Must be able to complete a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
Required Knowledge and Skills:
  • Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Must be able to demonstrate knowledge of the fire, life safety, and building codes – including NFPA, UL and FM standards.
  • Devloping experience and working towards passing the fire protection engineering written examination administered by NCEES to become a registered Fire Protection PE
  • Possess active security clearance or the ability to obtain a security clearance
  • Experience as a fire protection engineer at a major commercial, industrial, or nuclear facility with a strong background in fire suppression and fire alarm system design.
  • Experience working on DoD government projects and Unified Facilities Criteria.
  • Experience using SpecsIntact to tailor Unified Facilities Guide Specifications (UFGS).
Total Rewards/Benefits:

For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive.  Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards

Diverse teams build the extraordinary:

As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.

We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably. Click here to learn more about the people who power our legacy.

Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com


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