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Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Professional Engineering (PE) license or NICET Level IV Certification; additional certifications ... Experience in fire protection engineering design applications. WSP Benefits: WSP provides a ...

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Fire Protection Engineer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$49.7K

$108.7K

$188.4K

How much do fire protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection engineer in Massachusetts is $108,684.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $122,300.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Fire Protection Engineer jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Fire Protection Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Protection Engineer jobs in MA? For Fire Protection Engineer jobs in MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Engineer job openings in Massachusetts as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,684 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
Senior Plumbing / Fire Protection Engineer

Senior Plumbing / Fire Protection Engineer

Salas O'Brien

Boston, MA • On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 369 rated engineering


Job description

RFS Engineering is now a Salas O'Brien Company
Senior Plumbing / Fire Protection Engineer
Job Summary: The Senior Plumbing & Fire Protection Engineer leads the design and coordination of plumbing and fire protection systems for complex building projects. This role provides technical leadership, ensures code-compliant and constructible designs, and collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams, clients, and project stakeholders. The ideal candidate brings deep consulting engineering experience, strong leadership capabilities, and a commitment to quality and safety in building systems design.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead the design and delivery of plumbing and fire protection systems across all project phases
  • Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and quality oversight to plumbing and fire protection design staff
  • Design and coordinate plumbing systems, including domestic water, sanitary, storm, and specialty piping systems
  • Design and coordinate fire protection systems, including sprinkler and standpipe systems
  • Perform and review fire protection hydraulic calculations using industry-standard software
  • Develop construction documents using Autodesk Revit and ensure coordination with other building systems
  • Ensure compliance with applicable state and national building, plumbing, and fire codes
  • Collaborate with architects, owners, contractors, and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) to resolve technical and code-related issues
  • Participate in site visits, construction administration, and field coordination as needed
  • Support project planning, scheduling, and technical decision-making

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or Mechanical Engineering Technology (BSMET) required
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in consulting engineering with demonstrated plumbing and fire protection system design expertise
  • Proven leadership experience managing and guiding design teams
  • Proficiency in Autodesk Revit required
  • Experience with fire protection hydraulic calculation software required
  • Strong knowledge of applicable state and national plumbing and fire protection codes
  • Professional Engineer (PE) or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) preferred
  • LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) or ability to obtain preferred
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with comfort in client-facing environments

Location: Boston, MA, Laconia, NH or Portland, ME
Travel: Up to 20%
Compensation & Benefits:
The expected base salary range for this role is $90,000-$140,000 USD per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.
This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.
About Us:
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.
Third-Party Agency Notice
Salas O'Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O'Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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