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Fire Protection Designer Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

Staff Fire Protection Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Company Overview Throughout our worldwide network of experts, clients and communities, we are renowned for our leadership in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly ...

Staff Fire Protection Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Perform professional-level fire protection engineering services such as life safety code consulting, fire protection design, fire alarm/mass notification design, performance-based engineering design ...

Fire Sprinkler Designer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

... Designers to our team, to support new work in the Colorado area. If you are seeking an opportunity ... We are committed to all aspects of the fire protection business: sprinklers, service inspection and ...

Fire Sprinkler Designer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

... Designers to our team, to support new work in the Colorado area. If you are seeking an opportunity ... We are committed to all aspects of the fire protection business: sprinklers, service inspection and ...

Showing results 21-40

Fire Protection Designer information

See Denver, CO salary details

$31.9K

$78.3K

$119.4K

How much do fire protection designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection designer in Denver, CO is $78,253.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,800.00 and $95,200.00 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 job categories do people searching Fire Protection Designer jobs in Denver, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Designer jobs in Denver, CO are:

Infographic showing various Fire Protection Designer job openings in Denver, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,261 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Fire Protection Engineer - Denver Fire Department

Denver

Denver, CO

$109K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

About Our Job

Please apply as soon as possible, as this posting will close on September 20th, 2026.

The Denver Fire Department is seeking two Fire Protection Engineers to join our team. This position performs professional engineering work focused on fire protection, life safety, building design, and code compliance.

Fire Protection Engineers work closely with fire department personnel, other City agencies, engineers, architects, contractors, developers, property owners, and members of the public to help ensure buildings and fire protection systems meet applicable safety requirements.

This position is primarily located at: 201 W Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80202

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility in scheduling. Following a training period some hybrid work will be available.

As a Fire Protection Engineer, you will:

  • Evaluate system tests and reports for smoke control, standpipe/PRV, fire alarm, leak detection, and fire pump performance. Performs inspections of smoke control systems and other inspections as assigned.

  • Analyze, evaluate, review and issue approvals, or denials of fire protection plans and life safety systems in new or existing buildings utilizing the applicable specifications, standards, and codes.

  • Review plans and processes regarding hazardous chemicals and/or materials to ensure proper fire safety provisions are included.

  • Evaluate the effectiveness of existing methods, policies, procedures, proposed local and national model code modifications and recommend revisions or new methods, policies, and procedures.

  • Develop training programs related to model codes, methods, policies, procedures, and national design standards and provide instruction to department personnel.

  • Assist DFD inspectors and personnel with the inspections of existing and new buildings to ensure compliance with applicable codes, federal, state, and local laws, and other national standards.

  • Provide resource information and building and fire code requirements to developers, owners, contractors, and city agencies.

  • Provide technical assistance and guidance to department personnel regarding fire protection and fire resistive materials in accordance with the applicable codes.

  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Our ideal candidate will have:

  • A Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection, Mechanical, Electrical, or another directly related engineering field.

  • Three or more years of experience as a licensed Professional Engineer within the building design and construction industry.

  • Professional experience specifically related to Fire Protection Engineering.

  • Experience interpreting and applying Fire and Building Codes, NFPA standards, and other applicable engineering standards.

  • Experience reviewing building plans and fire protection or life safety systems.

  • Knowledge or credentials related to structural analysis and evaluation.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical requirements to both technical and non-technical audiences.

  • A collaborative, customer-focused approach when working with internal and external stakeholders.

Below are the minimum requirements used to determine eligibility for this position:

  • Education requirement: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field.

  • Experience Requirement: Two (2) years of professional experience in fire protection and life safety evaluation, design, engineering, or installation.

  • Education/Experience Equivalency: None

  • License/Certifications: Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) by the Colorado State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers at the time of application.

  • Registration as a Professional Engineer by another state will be accepted in lieu of this requirement, provided the applicant is registered by the State of Colorado by completion of the probationary period.

  • Licenses and certifications must be kept current as a condition of employment.

About Everything Else

Job Profile

CE0409 Fire Protection Engineer

To view the full job profile including position specifications, physical demands, and probationary period, click here.

Position Type

Unlimited

Position Salary Range

$109,134.00 - $180,071.00

Target Pay

Based on education and experience

Agency

Denver Fire Department

Redeployment during Citywide Emergencies

City and County of Denver employees may be re-deployed to work in other capacities in their own agencies or in other city agencies to support core functions of the city during a citywide emergency declared by the Mayor.

The City and County of Denver provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, or any other status protected under federal, state, and/or local law.

It is your right to access oral or written language assistance, sign language interpretation, real-time captioning via CART, or disability-related accommodations. To request any of these services at no cost to you, please contact Jobs@Denvergov.org with three business days' notice.

Applicants for employment with the City and County of Denver must have valid work authorization that does not require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the U.S.

For information about right to work, click here for English or here for Spanish.