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Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Jensen Hughes

Fire Protection Consultant

San Diego, CA · On-site

... in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly upheld since 1939 ... Our engineers and consultants collaborate to solve complex safety and security challenges, ensuring ...

Jensen Hughes

Fire Protection Consultant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$86K - $129K/yr

... in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly upheld since 1939 ... Our engineers and consultants collaborate to solve complex safety and security challenges, ensuring ...

K2 Staffing

Fire Protection Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$97K - $130K/yr

Summary The Fire Protection Design Engineer is responsible for supporting the design and analysis of fire protection and life safety systems across a diverse range of projects. This mid-level role is ...

Telgian Corporation

Fire Protection Consultant

Irvine, CA · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Provides fire protection advice to construction and other architect/engineering personnel, advises on compliance with fire-related standards and codes, and prepare and comment on reports, design ...

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All JobsFire Protection Engineer JobsFire Protection Engineer Jobs in California

Fire Protection Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$98.2K

$170.2K

How much do fire protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection engineer in California is $98,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management or technical expertise.

What are Fire Protection Engineers?

Fire Protection Engineers are professionals who specialize in designing systems and solutions to prevent, control, and mitigate the effects of fire. They apply principles of engineering and science to protect people, property, and the environment from fire hazards. Their responsibilities often include designing fire detection and suppression systems, ensuring buildings comply with fire codes, and conducting risk assessments. Fire Protection Engineers work in a variety of settings, including construction, manufacturing, consulting, and government agencies. Their expertise is critical in creating safer buildings and communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fire Protection Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Protection Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, fire dynamics, building codes, and typically a degree in fire protection or related engineering field. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, fire modeling software (e.g., FDS), and relevant certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) in fire protection are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, communication skills, and attention to detail help professionals excel in designing safety systems and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are critical for ensuring effective fire prevention, code compliance, and the protection of lives and property.

What can I do with a fire protection engineering degree?

A fire protection engineering degree prepares individuals for roles designing fire safety systems, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with safety codes. Graduates often work in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or consulting, utilizing skills in fire dynamics, code interpretation, and safety standards. Professional certifications like the Professional Engineer (PE) license can enhance career opportunities.

How does a Fire Protection Engineer typically collaborate with architects and construction teams during a building project?

Fire Protection Engineers play a crucial role in the planning and construction process by working closely with architects and construction teams to ensure that fire safety measures are integrated seamlessly into building designs. They review architectural plans, provide recommendations on fire detection and suppression systems, and help interpret fire codes and regulations. Regular meetings and site visits are common, allowing the engineer to address potential challenges, coordinate installation timelines, and verify compliance throughout the construction phase. This collaborative approach helps ensure both safety and functionality in the finished structure.

What Does a Fire Protection Engineer Do?

A fire protection engineer creates methods and products to prevent fires and investigates buildings to identify fire hazards. In this career, you verify housing safety requirements and update older buildings to minimize dangers. You also teach others the best ways to handle fires and the skills they need to escape safely. You review fire-related accidents and implement a plan to avoid future damage. This job position is crucial in the private sector, but you can also find many opportunities with the government, such as positions in national and state parks or any areas with lots of plants and wildlife.

Are fire protection engineers in demand?

Fire protection engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing safety regulations and the need for fire prevention and safety systems in buildings. They often work in construction, consulting, or government sectors, and certifications like NICET or PE can enhance job prospects.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Fire protection engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in large organizations or specialized consulting firms. High salaries often reflect expertise in fire safety design, code compliance, and the use of advanced modeling tools.

What is the difference between Fire Protection Engineer vs Fire Safety Specialist?

AspectFire Protection EngineerFire Safety Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Fire Protection Engineering, PE license often preferredCertifications like CFPS, training in fire safety protocols
Work EnvironmentDesigning systems, analyzing fire risks, working with engineers and architectsConducting safety inspections, training, developing safety plans
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction, industrial facilitiesGovernment agencies, corporate safety departments, consulting firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding engineering roles in fire safety designFocus on safety procedures and compliance

Fire Protection Engineers primarily design and analyze fire safety systems, requiring engineering credentials and working in technical environments. Fire Safety Specialists focus on implementing safety protocols, conducting inspections, and training, often holding certifications like CFPS. Both roles are vital in fire safety but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Fire Protection Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Protection Engineer jobs in California? For Fire Protection Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Fire Protection Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Fire Protection Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Protection Engineer jobs in CA? For Fire Protection Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Fire Protection Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,213 per year, or $47.2 per hour.
Assistant Fire Protection Engineer- Aviation & Federal (Brea)

Assistant Fire Protection Engineer- Aviation & Federal (Brea)

Burns & McDonnell

Brea, CA • On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Burns & McDonnell rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 79 rated construction

Job description

Description
The Assistant Fire Protection Engineer will assist in the design of multi-discipline projects and the preparation of comprehensive fire protection packages including fire suppression, fire alarm, smoke management, and life-safety systems. This position will work on various projects with a diverse portfolio of project types and clients.
  • Assist in the design, specification, and multi-discipline coordination of the following fire protection systems: Wet-pipe, dry-pipe, pre-action, deluge, and foam/water fire suppression systems. Fire water supply infrastructure including fire water storage tanks, fire pumps, underground and aboveground distribution piping and associated appurtenances. Outdoor fire suppression systems including monitors, spray systems, and exposure protection systems. Addressable and non-addressable voice evacuation fire alarm systems including initiation devices, supervision devices, and audible and visual notification appliances. Releasing systems for pre-action, foam/water, and clean agent systems.
  • Assist in performing and evaluating fire protection calculations including the hydraulic analysis of fire water supply and demand, battery calculations, and voltage drop calculations.
  • Assist in evaluating building and life safety requirements including building area and height limitations, building construction types, fire resistive assemblies and opening protections, occupancy classifications, hazards, building egress, and active and passive smoke management systems.
  • Assist in the construction administration process including coordination with field personnel to resolve design related installation issues, the review of contractor shop drawings and calculations, field inspections, and testing of fire protection systems.
  • Assist in performing site evaluations and documenting existing fire protection systems.
  • Assist in the preparation and evaluation of project budgets and cost estimates.
  • Responsible for compliance with company and site safety policies.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Fire Protection Engineering or related degree from an ABET accredited program required.
  • Or Bachelor's Degree in Fire Protection or related Engineering Technology from an ABET accredited program and successful completion of Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam required.
  • Prior internship and/or related consulting experience preferred.
  • Basic knowledge in standard engineering techniques and procedures.
  • Basic knowledge of building codes, fire codes, NFPA standards, FM Global datasheets, military standards, and refinery/industrial API guidelines a plus.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment, and demonstrated critical thinking skills.
  • Proficient computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain access authorization to facilities and data of existing and potential clients, including, but not limited to DOE, aerospace, military, food and consumer product manufacturers, pharmaceutical, laboratories, and others necessary to perform work.
  • Engineers in Training-EIT Certification preferred.
  • NICET certification in Water-Based System Layout (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) preferred.
  • Or NICET certification in Fire Alarm Systems (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) preferred.
  • Or NICET certification in Special Hazard Systems (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) preferred.
  • Minimum of a 3.0 GPA strongly preferred.
  • Involvement on campus or in the community preferred.
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without need for work sponsorship) in the country where this position is located.

Compensation
$85,000.00-125,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Fire Protection Engineer
Primary Location US-CA-Brea
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 25 % of the Time
Req ID: 263119
Job Hire Type New Grad #LI-EAC #A&F

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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