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Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) , an employee-owned firm, is seeking a curious, committed, and enthusiastic Fire Protection Engineer to join our dynamic and diverse team of engineers and ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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 Jun 12, 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 working in high-demand industries or management capacities.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and working in high-paying industries or leadership positions.

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. Fire protection engineers work in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and consulting, often using tools like fire modeling software and requiring certifications like NICET or PE licensure. The degree provides a foundation for careers focused on preventing and mitigating fire hazards in various environments.

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 various industries. They often require specialized knowledge of codes, standards, and fire suppression technologies, making their skills valuable in construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects.

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.

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 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 (2+years)

Fire Protection Engineer (2+years)

Coffman Engineers

Auburn, CA • Hybrid

$75K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Company Description

At Coffman Engineers, we serve as both prime consultant and sub consultant on projects large and small, including commercial, retail, institutional, government, industrial, and project/construction management. Incorporated in 1979, we have employees in more than 23 locations serving clients across the United States and overseas.
To meet client objectives and to integrate our many disciplines, we can create teams comprised of civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and corrosion control, as well as project/construction managers and professionals in a variety of specialty services. This ability has made us a leader in the engineering and construction communities, and has strengthened our reputation as being progressive, innovative, and a great place to work.

Job Description

Our mission is simple: To empower our team to deliver innovative engineering solutions focused on our clients' success. As a Fire Protection Engineer at Coffman Engineers, you'll be part of a collaborative, creative, and high-performing team that believes in making a difference for our clients and our communities. You'll experience a culture where your growth and contributions truly matter.

Coffman Engineers is seeking a highly skilled, self-motivated, Fire Protection Engineer with two or more years of experience.  This individual will have an interest in working with professionals on challenging projects providing our clients with automatic suppression system design; fire detection, alarm and mass notification system design; code analysis; egress analysis; fire resistant construction analysis; smoke control analysis; as well as general fire protection and life safety concepts and research.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in engineering from accredited college or university or Fire Protection specific degree (preferred)
  • Registered as a Professional Engineer (PE) is preferred, an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or ability to take the FE exam within the next six months is also considered. 
  • 2+ years of working experience
  • Experience with the current version of AutoCAD and Revit (preferred)
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

Required Duties and Skills:

  • Computer skills necessary for daily activities, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, simple graphics, and a working knowledge of computer aided drafting
  • Managing day-to-day contacts with internal and external clients while utilizing experience and technology to meet expectations
  • Performing research and documenting for internal and external distribution
  • Analysis of existing fire protection systems; design new fire protection systems including suppression systems, fire detection, fire alarm and mass notification systems
  • Building and fire code analysis and interpretation
  • Utilization of FDS, Pyrosim, CONTAM programs to execute performance-based design efforts
  • Project management skills for managing internal projects as well as external client needs

Compensation:

  • Approximate Base Salary - $75k-115k based on experience
  • Paid overtime at 1.0 times hourly rate
  • Competitive end of year discretionary bonus based on company/team/personal performance
  • Hybrid Work Schedule (subject to change)
  • 401k with maximum of 5% Contribution Matching for 9% Employee Contribution


This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

Additional Information

Why You Want to Work Here

You could choose to work anywhere, so why work at Coffman Engineers? Because we are different - our culture sets us apart. Simply stated, we are a group of creative, high-performing people who like working together and believe that what we do makes a difference. Employees say that it feels like working with a group of friends in a small office while enjoying the benefits and perks of working for a large firm. Our culture isn't the only thing that makes us different, but it drives everything we do.

Coffman offers comprehensive benefits, including a flexible PTO program and a fun environment with family-friendly policies. We support and encourage individually tailored professional and technical advancement as well as personal growth.

Don't take our word for it. Check out what others are saying:

http://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Coffman-Engineers-Reviews-E409809.htm

Coffman at a Glance:

  • 47 years in business 
  • 850+ employees serving clients throughout the U.S. and overseas from more than 23 locations
  • Multi-discipline engineering services plus corrosion control, commissioning and project/construction management
  • 70+ employees in 9 offices, providing Fire Protection services since 2014
  • #34 Top 80 Engineering Firms, Building Design + Construction, 2022
  • #29 Zweig Group Hot Firm List, Zweig Group, 2021
  • #161 Top 500 Design Firms, Engineering News-Record, 2023

Applying

You must apply online for this position. If you are unable to complete our online application process, or if you need assistance to do so, let us know and we will provide reasonable accommodation.

If you are experiencing problems applying through our system, please try using a different browser or an updated version of your current browser. If that doesn't work, please contact us directly.

This position is direct with Coffman Engineers; we are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of any status protected under federal, state, or local law.  

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www.coffman.com

Twitter: @CoffmanEngineer

Instagram: @CoffmanEngineers

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Facebook: @CoffmanEngineers