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

ZARRELLCO

Fire Protection Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Comprehensive & Competitive Benefits Package About the Role We are seeking an experienced Fire Protection Designer to join our growing team in Chicago. This is an in-office position ideal for a ...

System One

Fire Protection Engineer

Naperville, IL · Remote

$85K - $114K/yr

Develop and review fire protection systems designs to ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Collaborate with project teams to incorporate fire safety considerations into building ...

System One

Fire Protection Engineer

Naperville, IL · Remote

$85K - $114K/yr

Develop and review fire protection systems designs to ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Collaborate with project teams to incorporate fire safety considerations into building ...

System One

Fire Protection Engineer

Naperville, IL · Remote

$85K - $114K/yr

Develop and review fire protection systems designs to ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Collaborate with project teams to incorporate fire safety considerations into building ...

System One

Fire Protection Engineer

Naperville, IL · Remote

$85K - $114K/yr

Develop and review fire protection systems designs to ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Collaborate with project teams to incorporate fire safety considerations into building ...

Leidos

Fire Protection Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Leidos is seeking a Fire Protection Engineer (with expertise in Fire Life Safety) to join the ... Ability to produce FLS designs of a variety of critical FLS elements and be able to provide ...

J. F. Ahern Co.

Fire Alarm Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... mechanical and fire protection contractors in the country. We pride ourselves on delivering ... Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to give you the flexibility, security, and support ...

J. F. Ahern

Fire Alarm Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

... mechanical and fire protection contractors in the country. We pride ourselves on delivering ... Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to give you the flexibility, security, and support ...

Telgian Corporation

Fire Protection Engineer

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

The Fire Protection Engineer provides fire protection engineering and consultation services, support, and deliverables for Telgian clients as part of multi-discipline team. Provides fire protection ...

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All JobsFire Protection Designer JobsFire Protection Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Fire Protection Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$78.3K

$119.5K

How much do fire protection designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection designer 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 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 Chicago, IL? For Fire Protection Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Designer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Fire Protection Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,327 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Fire Protection Designer

ZARRELLCO

Chicago, IL • On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Apply to this post or send resume to rob@zarrellco.comFire Protection Designer

Location: Chicago, IL (In-Office)
Salary: $85,000 – $125,000 (DOE)
Benefits: Comprehensive & Competitive Benefits Package

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Fire Protection Designer to join our growing team in Chicago. This is an in-office position ideal for a motivated professional with strong technical skills and a background designing fire protection and sprinkler systems for commercial and industrial projects.

This role offers competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to work on high-profile projects in a collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design fire protection and automatic sprinkler systems for commercial and industrial facilities

  • Prepare detailed shop drawings and layouts using AutoCAD

  • Perform hydraulic calculations and system sizing

  • Coordinate designs with project managers, engineers, contractors, and AHJs

  • Ensure compliance with NFPA codes and local regulations

  • Conduct site visits and field coordination as needed

  • Revise drawings based on feedback and project requirements

Qualifications

  • Minimum 2+ years of experience designing fire protection/sprinkler systems

  • Proficiency in AutoCAD (required)

  • Experience with AutoSPRINK (preferred)

  • Strong understanding of NFPA codes and industry standards

  • Experience working on commercial and/or industrial projects

  • Strong communication and coordination skills

  • Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving ability

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary range: $85,000 – $125,000, depending on experience

  • Strong, comprehensive benefits package

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Professional development opportunities

  • Stable and growing organization