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Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

Senior Fire Protection Engineer Bethesda, Maryland - Hybrid Work Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain a Public Trust @Orchard LLC is seeking a Senior Fire Protection Engineer for a government ...

Senior Fire Protection Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$126K - $189K/yr

As a professional services firm we are seeking a Senior Fire Protection Engineer to join our growing North America Fire Protection Engineering Team. We are better together. Your role as a senior ...

Senior Fire Protection Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$126K - $189K/yr

As a professional services firm we are seeking a Senior Fire Protection Engineer to join our growing North America Fire Protection Engineering Team. We are better together. Your role as a senior ...

Fire Protection Engineer III

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$88K - $119K/yr

The Fire Protection Engineer III is responsible for the design, review, support, and technical oversight of fire protection systems with a strong focus on fire alarm and life safety systems. This ...

Showing results 41-60

Fire Protection Engineer information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$45.2K

$98.8K

$171.2K

How much do fire protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection engineer in Columbia, MD is $98,760.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $111,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire protection engineer?

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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, manufacturing, and consulting firms, with demand driven by new construction projects and updates to fire codes. Certifications such as NICET or PE can enhance job prospects in this field.

How much do fire protection engineers make in the US?

Fire protection engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $85,000 to $100,000, with experienced professionals and those holding certifications like NICET or PE earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and industry sector, and many work in design, inspection, or consulting roles within construction and safety environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD?

The most popular types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD?

For Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD are:

What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Fire Protection Engineer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Fire Protection Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Fire Protection Engineer job openings in Columbia, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,760 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

Senior Fire Protection Engineer

@Orchard

Bethesda, MD โ€ข Remote

Contractor

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Senior Fire Protection Engineer

Bethesda, Maryland – Hybrid Work

Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain a Public Trust

@Orchard LLC is seeking a Senior Fire Protection Engineer for a government contract role, located at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, MD. This is a hybrid role, involving on-site inspection of facilities as well as work-from-home tasks. If you are an experienced fire protection professional, able to work in Bethesda consistently, and you are a registered Fire Professional Engineer, reach out for consideration.

Responsibilities

  • Review architectural / engineering designs and fire protection system shop drawings for over 50 buildings.
  • Conduct construction inspections and issue final occupancy permits.
  • Witness acceptance tests for fire alarm and sprinkler system modifications.
  • Evaluate existing building conditions through life safety and hazard analysis surveys.
  • Provide technical guidance using various NFPA codes.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in an Engineering discipline (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Industrial, etc).
  • 5 years of fire protection and fire prevention experience.
  • Registered Professional Engineer in Fire Protection
  • Must have a valid Driver’s License
  • Ability to obtain/maintain a Public Trust

Compensation: Compensation will be determined based on experience and qualifications; it is expected to be in the range of $100-130K.

Established in 2010, @Orchard has an exceptional reputation, providing talent acquisition solutions to time-sensitive, talent scarcity issues to deliver better talent management ROI.  Our specialty lies in the critical area of program talent acquisition and resource management, not in one narrow skillset, but across many areas of technical and functional delivery. To learn more about our other exciting opportunities, visit our Jobs Page at www.atorchard.com.