ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Fire Protection Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Hiller Companies

Sr. Fire Alarm Designer

Orange, CA · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

The Hiller Companies is a leading provider of fire protection and safety solutions, dedicated to ... A Sr. Fire Alarm Designer is responsible for using AutoCAD and other design software to create ...

Jensen Hughes

Fire Alarm Consultant/Designer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$102K - $149K/yr

Ensure designs meet all applicable local, state, and national fire codes. * Perform site surveys to ... Stay current on relevant changes to fire protection regulations and standards. * Collaborate with ...

Summit Companies

Fire Alarm Designer

San Jose, CA

The Fire Alarm Designer position is responsible for operating with minimal supervision while ... Employee will be occasionally required to wear all appropriate personal protective equipment, as ...

General Matter

Fire Protection Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

We are designing, building, and operating the world's lowest-cost enrichment services, here in the ... As our Fire Protection Engineer, you'll be more than just a technical expert; you'll be the ...

General Matter

Fire Protection Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

We are designing, building, and operating the world's lowest-cost enrichment services, here in the ... As our Fire Protection Engineer, you'll be more than just a technical expert; you'll be the ...

Blueprint Hires

Fire Protection Engineer

Palo Alto, CA

$97K - $131K/yr

Taking responsibility for complete fire protection system designs, including sprinkler, fire pump, fire alarm, and mass notification systems. * Analyzing life safety requirements for buildings ...

HCI Systems

Designer-Fire Alarm/Low Voltage

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Overview We are seeking skilled Fire Alarm/Low-Voltage, Designers and Senior Designers to join our ... Protected Classifications"). HCI will reasonably accommodate employees and applicants with ...

HCI Systems

Designer-Fire Alarm/Low Voltage

Ontario, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Overview We are seeking skilled Fire Alarm/Low-Voltage, Designers and Senior Designers to join our ... disability, protected medical condition as defined by applicable state or local law, genetic ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsFire Protection Designer JobsFire Protection Designer Jobs in California

Fire Protection Designer information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$75K

$114.5K

How much do fire protection designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection designer 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 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 strong background in engineering principles, fire codes, and building regulations, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, hydraulic calculation software, and relevant certifications such as NICET are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with architects, engineers, and clients. These competencies ensure the creation of safe, code-compliant fire protection systems that protect lives and property.

What are some common challenges fire protection designers face when coordinating with other disciplines on a construction project?

Fire Protection Designers often need to collaborate closely with architects, mechanical, electrical, and structural engineers to ensure their designs integrate seamlessly with the overall building plans. One common challenge is navigating conflicting space requirements, as fire protection systems must be routed without interfering with other building systems. Additionally, changes in project scope or building layouts can require rapid adjustments to fire protection plans to maintain code compliance. Clear communication and proactive coordination are essential to avoid project delays and ensure all safety standards are met.

What is a fire protection designer?

Fire Protection Designers are professionals who plan, design, and layout fire protection systems such as sprinkler systems, fire alarms, and suppression systems for buildings and structures. They work closely with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure that fire safety systems comply with local codes and standards. Their work helps protect lives and property by ensuring that buildings are equipped to prevent, detect, and control fires effectively.

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

AspectFire Protection DesignerFire Sprinkler Designer
CertificationsNICET, NFPA certificationsNICET, NFPA certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning fire protection systems for buildings, offices, industrial facilitiesSpecializing in fire sprinkler system design for similar environments
Industry UsageUsed across commercial, industrial, institutional sectorsPrimarily in fire sprinkler system projects within the same sectors

The main difference between a Fire Protection Designer and a Fire Sprinkler Designer lies in scope. Fire Protection Designers create comprehensive fire safety systems, including alarms and suppression systems, while Fire Sprinkler Designers focus specifically on designing fire sprinkler systems. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, often overlapping in industry usage. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and professionals identify the right expertise for fire safety projects.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Protection Designer jobs in California? For Fire Protection Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Fire Protection Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Fire Protection Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Protection Designer jobs in CA? For Fire Protection Designer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Fire Protection Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,039 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Fire Protection Engineering Designer (5+Years)

Coffman Engineers, Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Coffman Engineers rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 443 rated engineering

Job description

Company Description
At Coffman Engineers, we serve as both prime consultant and sub consultant on projects large and small, including commercial, retail, institutional, government, industrial, and project/construction management. Incorporated in 1979, we have employees in more than 23 locations serving clients across the United States and overseas.
To meet client objectives and to integrate our many disciplines, we can create teams comprised of civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and corrosion control, as well as project/construction managers and professionals in a variety of specialty services. This ability has made us a leader in the engineering and construction communities, and has strengthened our reputation as being progressive, innovative, and a great place to work.
Job Description
Our mission is simple: To empower our team to deliver innovative engineering solutions focused on our clients' success. As a Fire Protection Engineering Designer at Coffman Engineers, you'll be part of a collaborative, creative, and high-performing team that believes in making a difference for our clients and our communities. You'll experience a culture where your growth and contributions truly matter.
Coffman Engineers is seeking a highly skilled, self-motivated, Fire Protection Engineering Designer with five or more years of experience. This individual will have an interest in working with professionals on challenging projects providing our clients with automatic suppression system design; fire detection, alarm and mass notification system design; code analysis; egress analysis; fire resistant construction analysis; smoke control analysis; as well as general fire protection and life safety concepts and research. Candidate should also have interest and expertise in successfully managing client and team relationships through challenges that may arise.
Qualifications
Requirements Include:
  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in engineering, sciences, or related fields.
  • Minimum 5+ years of relevant experience in fire protection systems or engineering consulting.
  • Project or Construction Management experience in the specified industries and sectors.
  • Experience with the Inspection, Testing and Maintenance requirements of fire alarm systems.
  • Practical knowledge of major fire alarm manufacturers' current product offerings and legacy products. Manufactures product certifications preferred.
  • Ability to develop proposals, execution plans, and technical engineering reports.
  • Ability to communicate with clients/stakeholders effectively.
  • Reading and reviewing project drawings including plans, sections, and bills of materials.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with the current version of AutoCAD and Revit (preferred).
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Required Duties and Skills:
  • Computer skills necessary for daily activities, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, simple graphics, and a working knowledge of computer aided drafting.
  • Managing day-to-day contacts with internal and external clients while utilizing experience and technology to meet expectations.
  • Performing research and documenting for internal and external distribution.
  • Performing analysis of existing fire alarm systems, as well as designing new fire alarm systems including suppression systems, fire detection, alarm and mass notification systems.
  • Performing building and fire code analysis and interpretation.
  • Review product data submittal and shop drawings for concurrence with project specifications and specific manufacturer's installation instructions, product listing requirements and maintenance and testing requirements.
  • Project management skills for managing internal projects as well as external client needs.

Compensation:
  • Approximate Base Salary - $95k-125k based on experience
  • Paid overtime at 1.0 times hourly rate
  • Competitive end of year discretionary bonus based on company/team/personal performance
  • Hybrid Work Schedule (subject to change)
  • 401k with maximum of 5% Contribution Matching for 9% Employee Contribution

This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
Additional Information
Why You Want to Work Here
You could choose to work anywhere, so why work at Coffman Engineers? Because we are different - our culture sets us apart. Simply stated, we are a group of creative, high-performing people who like working together and believe that what we do makes a difference. Employees say that it feels like working with a group of friends in a small office while enjoying the benefits and perks of working for a large firm. Our culture isn't the only thing that makes us different, but it drives everything we do.
Coffman offers comprehensive benefits, including a flexible PTO program and a fun environment with family-friendly policies. We support and encourage individually tailored professional and technical advancement as well as personal growth.
Don't take our word for it. Check out what others are saying:
http://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Coffman-Engineers-Reviews-E409809.htm
Coffman at a Glance:
  • 47 years in business
  • 850+ employees serving clients throughout the U.S. and overseas from more than 23 locations
  • Multi-discipline engineering services plus corrosion control, commissioning and project/construction management
  • 70+ employees in 9 offices, providing Fire Protection services since 2014
  • #34 Top 80 Engineering Firms, Building Design + Construction, 2022
  • #29 Zweig Group Hot Firm List, Zweig Group, 2021
  • #161 Top 500 Design Firms, Engineering News-Record, 2023

Applying
You must apply online for this position. If you are unable to complete our online application process, or if you need assistance to do so, let us know and we will provide reasonable accommodation.
If you are experiencing problems applying through our system, please try using a different browser or an updated version of your current browser. If that doesn't work, please contact us directly.
This position is direct with Coffman Engineers; we are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of any status protected under federal, state, or local law.
Follow us!
www.coffman.com
Twitter: @CoffmanEngineer
Instagram: @CoffmanEngineers
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coffman-engineers
Facebook: @CoffmanEngineers
Videos To Watch
https://youtu.be/qVaRi7On2Qw
https://youtu.be/qStJT-Rg6jY

What Coffman Engineers employees say

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply