1

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

Description POSITION SUMMARY Take the next step in your fire protection engineering career. You'll perform fire protection design and calculations, spend time in the field, and maintain quality ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Take the next step in your fire protection engineering career. You'll perform fire protection design and calculations, spend time in the field, and maintain quality assurance ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Leidos is seeking a Fire Protection Engineer (with expertise in Fire Life Safety) to join the National Airspace System Integration Support Contract (NISC) team. This role is for someone with ...

Fire Protection Engineer - FPE

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $142K/yr

Fire Protection Engineer - Mid-Level PE, FPE Location: Chicago, IL or Atlanta, GA Exp Federal delivers full-service Architecture & Engineering services, construction, and facility management services ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Fire Protection Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$46.9K

$102.5K

$177.7K

How much do fire protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection engineer in Chicago, IL is $102,516.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $115,400.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Fire Protection Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Fire Protection Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,516 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Fire Protection Engineer

Fire & Risk Alliance, LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$70K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Company Description

Fire & Risk Alliance (FRA) is a trusted global partner specializing in fire protection engineering, process safety, risk management, and emergency response. FRA was founded on principles of trust, excellence, quality, and loyalty to deliver innovative and cost-effective solutions tailored to client needs. With experienced engineers and consultants from diverse backgrounds, FRA combines complementary strengths to address complex fire and risk challenges. Committed to exceptional service and building strong relationships, FRA works to improve safety across various industries.


Role Description

FRA is seeking to hire an entry to senior level Fire Protection Engineer. The primary responsibilities include developing technical reports for indoor and outdoor battery energy storage systems (hazard mitigation analyses, emergency response plans, risk analyses), designing fire protection systems (fire alarm and fire suppression) in AutoCAD, and supporting our data center team with design, submittal reviews, and site-walkdowns as needed. The role involves code analysis, report generation, and providing practical and code compliant resolutions to address the client's needs. The engineer will collaborate closely with a lead engineer for each project.


Location

This is an on-site role in Chicago, IL. This role requires travel to other office locations, conferences, and client sites for meetings and field work. Travel is subject to change based on future project needs.


Qualifications

  • E.I.T. or P.E. license preferred
  • Proficiency in using AutoCAD and other CAD software for fire protection system design
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or related field
  • Ability to collaborate with a diverse team and clients
  • Project management skills are a plus
  • Willingness and ability to travel for site surveys and walkdowns
  • Knowledge of Hydraulic software packages is a plus


Salary Range

$70,000 - $175,000 per year. Compensation based on level of experience, education and professional licensure.


Benefits

  • Health Insurance
  • Eligibility for ESOP and 401k
  • PTO and Sick Leave