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Fire Protection Design Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Architectural, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management Degrees * 7+ years in Fire Protection Design or a related field * Strong analytical, critical thinking and ...

Fire Alarm Designer

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Experience in fire alarm design, drafting models with CAD software * Knowledge of fire protection and safety codes and standards * Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and blueprints

... mechanical and fire protection contractors in the country. We pride ourselves on delivering ... We have an exciting opportunity for a Fire Alarm Design Intern located in Chicago, IL. How you will ...

... mechanical and fire protection contractors in the country. We pride ourselves on delivering ... We have an exciting opportunity for a Fire Alarm Design Intern located in Chicago, IL. How you will ...

Showing results 41-60

Fire Protection Design information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$78.3K

$119.5K

How much do fire protection design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection design in Chicago, IL is $78,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,800.00 and $95,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Fire Protection Design jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Fire Protection Design job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,327 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Cosentini Associates - Plumbing and Fire Protection Engineer - (Experienced) - (Hybrid) Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL • On-site

Tetra Tech
Civil Engineering Construction • 10K+ employees

$80K - $140K/yr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

405th of 454 rated engineering


Job description

Cosentini Associates - Plumbing and Fire Protection Engineer - (Experienced) - (Hybrid) Chicago, IL The Opportunity:

Cosentini Associates (www.cosentini.com), a Tetra Tech company, is adding a Plumbing and Fire Protection Engineer to our Plumbing team based in Chicago, IL. As part of Tetra Tech’s High Performance Buildings Group, Cosentini Associates brings together the expertise of talented engineers, and architects from around the world. We offer high-end, sustainable building consulting and MEP engineering services for blue-chip clients across every building sector. Our services include MEP design, Net Zero Energy, lighting design, commissioning, vertical transportation, low voltage, information technologies, security, audiovisual, code consulting/fire engineering, sustainability consulting, and acoustics. We are Better Together Powered by Innovation.

Why Tetra Tech:

Cosentini Associates is a long-established building systems consulting engineering firm. In 1999 we joined Tetra Tech, enabling us to combine our expertise with the reach and resources of a prestigious global organization.

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting‑edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting‑edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world‑class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential – join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Your Role:
  • Design plumbing and fire protection systems for large buildings and facilities, including hospitals, laboratories, high rise residential, hotel and office, and other commercial and institutional projects.
  • Act as plumbing and fire protection lead on a portfolio of projects
  • Develop coordinated detailed design drawings, specifications, reports and schedules that meet project requirements and quality standards
  • Produce detailed engineering calculations, including water, gas & storm loads, equipment sizing and hydraulic calculations
  • Work closely with architects, clients and other multidisciplinary team members
  • Documentation of design work utilizing AutoCAD and/or Revit software
  • Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
  • Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline, knowledge and awareness.
  • Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns.
  • Additional duties as required.
Qualifications:
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • Minimum of 3 years of plumbing and fire protection design experience in buildings and facilities, including hospitals, laboratories, high rise residential, hotel and office, and other commercial and institutional projects.
  • Demonstrated experience in tenant fit outs and ground up construction
  • Proficient with the use of AutoCAD; Revit knowledge preferred
  • Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook)
  • Excellent technical skills, strong communication, analytical and interpersonal skills
  • Comprehensive knowledge and interpretation of code and healthcare compliance requirements and industry standards
  • Project and client relationship management experience
  • Ability to work independently with minimum supervision and in a highly collaborative team environment
  • Willingness and ability to travel as needed.
Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

  • Comprehensive and market‑competitive benefits. https://www.tetratech.com/careers/life-at-tetra-tech/
  • Merit‑based financial rewards.
  • Flexibility and company‑wide commitment to work/life balance.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.
Compensation:

Pay commensurate with experience.
Pay Range: $80,000 – $140,000/yr

At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech’s employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.

About Tetra Tech:

Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high‑end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.

Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor, and we request priority referral of veterans.

Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

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About Tetra Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Tetra Tech combines the resources of a global, multibillion-dollar company with local, client-focused delivery in more than 450 locations around the world. Our reputation rests on the technical expertise and dedication of our employees-21,000 associates working together to provide smart, scalable solutions for challenging projects. We are proud to be home to leading technical experts in water, environment, infrastructure, resource management, energy, and international development.

Industry

Civil engineering construction and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pasadena, CA, US