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

Allen + Shariff Corporation

Plumbing Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$77K - $102K/yr

Our mission is to engineer an exceptional level of personal care and connection designed to help ... Perform full design of plumbing systems (sanitary, water, gas, storm, medical gas, fire protection ...

Allen + Shariff Corporation

Plumbing Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$77K - $102K/yr

Our mission is to engineer an exceptional level of personal care and connection designed to help ... Perform full design of plumbing systems (sanitary, water, gas, storm, medical gas, 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.

Adjunct Faculty - Fire Science

Harper College

Palatine, IL

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Harper College rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Courses to be taught: 

FIS 100 - FUNDAMENTALS OF FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

FIS 102 - FIRE SERVICE MANAGEMENT/LEADERSHIP

FIS 106 - FIRE SERVICE CAREER EXPLORATION PRACTICUM

FIS 121 - FIRE BEHAVIOR AND COMBUSTION

FIS 212 - FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

FIS 230 - FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES LAW

Experience Requirements: 

The equivalent of one year's full-time, non-teaching fire service experience (2,000 hrs).

Experience in fire service training or instruction, including delivery of classroom, hands-on, or skills-based training.

Preferred Experience: 

Ideal candidates will possess all or a combination of the following experience: 

  • Equivalent of three year's full-time, non-teaching fire service experience (6,000 hours+).
  • Mentoring, onboarding, and/or providing basic firefighter instruction in foundational fire service concepts, organization, and career pathways.
  • Fire service management and leadership skills including supervision, organizational structure, decision-making, and leadership development.
  • Facilitating and/or mentoring students in a Fire Service Career Exploration including field observations, career planning, or professional development.
  • Fire behavior and combustion concepts, including fire dynamics, heat transfer, and fire development principles.
  • Fire protection systems familiarity, including detection, alarm, suppression, and system design concepts.
  • Knowledgeable regarding fire and emergency services law, including legal responsibilities, liability, and regulatory considerations in the fire service.

Education Requirements: 

Bachelor's in fire science technology or related field 

OSFM Fire Officer I or Company Fire Officer certification

OSFM Fire Service Instructor 2 certification.

Preferred Education Requirements: 

Additional certifications such as OSFM Fire Officer II, Fire Instructor III, or equivalent advanced-level credentials.

Completion of coursework aligned with Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) model curriculum.

Training or certification in Fire Prevention, Fire Inspection, or Community Risk Reduction (CRR).

Specialized training in fire behavior and fire dynamics, including UL Fire Safety Research Institute (UL FSRI) Fire Safety Academy modules.

Experience or training in leadership development, supervision, or organizational management within the fire service.

Certifications or coursework related to emergency management, incident command, or disaster response (e.g., advanced ICS/NIMS coursework).

Prior participation in professional development programs, academies, or leadership institutes within the fire service.

Job Description: 

Deliver course content that aligns with the college's curriculum standards and student learning outcomes.

Develop course syllabi, assignments, and assessments that reflect current industry practices and ensure course outcomes are met.

Foster an inclusive and engaging learning environment that accommodates diverse learning styles and promotes student success.

Use technology and other resources to enhance course delivery and student engagement, including online, hybrid, or face-to-face modalities.

Maintain accurate records of student's progress and grades.

Must adhere to mid-term verification and final grade posting deadlines.

Adhere to institutional policies and procedures, including those related to academic integrity and accessibility.

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