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

Siemens

Fire Sprinkler Estimator

Chicago, IL · On-site

Fire Protection System Certifications from Manufacturers or Major Universities * State or local Fire Sprinkler Technician/Inspector/Designer/Backflow Licenses * Field Technical Experience in the Fire ...

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

Fire Protection Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$32K

$78.4K

$119.6K

How much do fire protection designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection designer in Chicago, IL is $78,369.00, 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 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 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 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.

How do you become a fire protection designer?

To become a fire protection designer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing knowledge of fire codes and sprinkler systems, and obtaining relevant certifications such as NICET can enhance career prospects in this specialized field.

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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,369 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Fire Protection and Plumbing Engineer

Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$127K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Fire Protection & Plumbing Engineer leads the design, coordination, and delivery of plumbing and fire protection systems across diverse building and infrastructure projects. They provide technical leadership, quality oversight, and project management support, ensuring systems are safe, efficient, and code-compliant. The Engineer collaborates with clients and multidisciplinary teams, mentors junior staff, and contributes to business development efforts through technical expertise and client engagement.
What you will do:
  • Lead the design and development of plumbing systems including domestic water, sanitary, storm, and specialty piping.
  • Oversee fire protection system design including wet, dry, pre-action, clean agent, and specialized suppression systems.
  • Develop medical gas designs for healthcare and laboratory facilities
  • Perform and review advanced calculations such as hydraulic modeling, water supply analysis, and system sizing.
  • Prepare, and review, drawings, specifications, and reports in compliance with NFPA, IPC, UPC, and client requirements.
  • Coordinate designs across mechanical, electrical, and architectural disciplines for integrated solutions.
  • Conduct field inspections, surveys, and construction administration to verify design intent.
  • Mentor and train junior engineers and designers, fostering technical development.
  • Support project managers in maintaining schedules, budgets, and client satisfaction.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies, sustainable design practices, and evolving codes.
  • Participate in proposals, presentations, and client meetings to support business development.

Who you are:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, or related field (or in final semester).
  • 10+ years of progressive plumbing and fire protection design experience.
  • Expertise in NFPA standards, IPC, UPC, medical gas and local building codes.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and hydraulic/fire protection modeling software.
  • Demonstrated leadership in design delivery, quality control, and project coordination.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and guide teams to successful outcomes.

At Milhouse, we're more than just a place to work - we're a place to grow, thrive, and be celebrated. Here's how we invest in you:
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage - Reach out to learn how your deductible could be covered 100% through Garner Health!
  • Company Sponsored Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability - We've got your back when life takes unexpected turns.
  • Voluntary Coverages - Take control of your well-being with added coverage options.
  • Discounted Gym Membership - Stay active with wellness options that support your fitness goals.
  • Competitive Base Salary - Earn what you're worth in a performance-driven culture.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Build your future with confidence.
  • Professional Development Incentives - Get rewarded for growing your skills - including bonuses for earning your P.E. License.
  • Milhouse University (Cross-Functional Training) - Expand your expertise with internal training built to elevate your career and receive PDH credits for applicable training towards professional engineering licenses, etc..
  • Employee Education & Development Program - Tuition assistance and learning opportunities to keep you moving forward.
  • Generous PTO + Paid Holidays - Rest, recharge, and enjoy the moments that matter most.
  • Paid Parental Leave - Bond with your new arrival - and yes, we'll even cover a year of diapers!
  • Extracurricular Sports Teams - Join our summer Volleyball and Softball squads for fun off the clock.
  • Employee Recognition Program - Be celebrated for the impact you make.
  • Employee Referral Bonus - Bring great people on board and get paid for it.
  • Transit Benefits Program - Save on your daily commute.
  • Charitable Events and Activities offered through non-profit affiliate - Milhouse Charities.

$127,200 - $150,000 a year
The actual base pay depends upon many factors, such as education, experience, and skills. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.
While we provide a range, we'd love to hear from you if you are in or outside of this range as we are always looking to cater roles to the Talent we find!!
Milhouse is a pay transparency non-discrimination organization committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We ensure that all employees are compensated fairly and without bias, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, effective January 1, 2025, we include pay scales and benefits in all job postings and ensure that all promotion opportunities are communicated to current employees within 14 days of external postings. Additionally, we participate in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility and uphold compliance with federal requirements.
Here's a little information on Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.:
Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc. was founded in 2001 with the goal of building the best engineering company in the country. It was based on the belief that if we hired great people, fueled their passion while challenging them to excel, and maintained a laser focus on the needs of your clients, success would come- and so it has. Our portfolio of successful projects continues to grow, our family of highly satisfied clients continues to expand, and our staff just gets better and better.
We are a unique, Chicago-based firm whose collective passion, vision and expertise has led to phenomenal growth! With more than 500+ talented professionals and offices across the globe, Milhouse offers a dynamic work environment where there is no limit to what you can achieve if you are willing to go after it.
Our people are the cornerstone of our organization, and key to our success. Join a remarkably talented team that shares a passion for what they do and a vision for improving communities around the world through innovative engineering and construction. Click here to see who we are, and how our people drive our culture each & every day.
Click here to see all of our awards and how many times we've won Chicago's 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For!
Important Notice to US Applicants
Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc. is an at-will employer.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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