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Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

McMillen, Inc.

Fire Protection Project Manager

Portland, OR · On-site

$140K - $230K/yr

Fire Protection Project Manager McMillen, Inc. is seeking a highly skilled Fire Protection Project ... Our people integrate engineering, environmental, and construction expertise to deliver practical ...

McKinstry

Fire Protection Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$32.84 - $52.30/hr

... engineering and design * construction and facility services To get where we're going, we need big ... The Opportunity with McKinstry We are adding a Fire Protection Designer II to our growing Fire ...

McKinstry

Fire Protection Designer

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$32.84 - $52.30/hr

... engineering and design * construction and facility services To get where we're going, we need big ... The Opportunity with McKinstry We are adding a Fire Protection Designer II to our growing Fire ...

McKinstry

Fire Protection Inspector

Portland, OR

$34.67 - $52.30/hr

... engineering and design * construction and facility services To get where we're going, we need big ... The Opportunity with McKinstry We are adding a Staff Inspector to our Fire Protection team in ...

McKinstry

Fire Protection Inspector

Portland, OR · On-site

$34.67 - $52.30/hr

... engineering and design * construction and facility services To get where we're going, we need big ... The Opportunity with McKinstry We are adding a Staff Inspector to our Fire Protection team in ...

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All JobsFire Protection Engineer JobsFire Protection Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Fire Protection Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$48.3K

$105.5K

$182.9K

How much do fire protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection engineer in Portland, OR is $105,538.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,000.00 and $118,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to become a fire protection engineer?

Becoming a fire protection engineer typically requires a bachelor's degree in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field, along with knowledge of fire safety codes and systems. Gaining relevant experience and obtaining professional certifications, such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license, can also be necessary to advance in the field.

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 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 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 building code compliance. They work in various sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and consulting, often requiring certifications like NICET or PE licensure. Employment prospects are generally favorable for those with specialized skills and experience in fire safety systems and codes.

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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Portland, OR? For Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Fire Protection Engineer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Fire Protection Engineer job openings:
Fire Protection Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Protection Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,538 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Fire Protection Engineer (8+ years)

Coffman Engineers

Portland, OR

$128K - $163K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Coffman Engineers rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 440 rated engineering

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 Fore 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.

We are seeking a dynamic, innovative, and quality-oriented Fire Protection Engineer with a minimum of eight years of experience to perform consulting services for internal and external clients. You must have excellent written and verbal communication skills along with a high-level ability to manage multiple clients and multiple projects at one time.

Technical skills will include but not limited to: automatic suppression system design; fire detection, alarm and communication 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

Key Responsibilities

  • Build and maintain client relationships, pursue new business, and support proposal development.
  • Manage multiple fire protection engineering projects, including scope, staffing, schedules, budgets, and delivery.
  • Provide fire protection and life safety consulting to architects, developers, owners, government agencies, and insurers.
  • Apply and interpret ICC codes (IBC, IFC, IMC) and NFPA standards to ensure code compliance.
  • Develop fire, smoke control, and pressurization models and analyses.
  • Design and review fire alarm, detection, suppression, and smoke control systems.
  • Deliver prescriptive and performance-based fire and life safety solutions, including special hazard strategies.
  • Conduct site visits and coordinate with AHJs, design teams, and contractors.
  • Present design approaches to authorities and lead client and internal project meetings.
  • Collaborate across offices and disciplines while managing project profitability.
  • Perform technical research, documentation, and participate in professional organizations (e.g., SFPE, NFPA).

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Engineering from accredited college or university in Fire Protection Engineering, Fire Sciences, or related engineering field.
  • A minimum of 6 years of professional working experience in Fire Protection.
  • A minimum of 2 years managing projects.
  • A P.E. license in Fire Protection Engineering or in the process of achieving this professional credential.
  • Strong communication skills are essential for a team-based and team-leading working environment.
  • Excellent planning and organizational skills required for our fast-paced environment; must be highly motivated, proactive, and willing to take on new challenges.
  • Solid understanding of relevant software, including FDS, CONTAM, egress modeling software, AutoCAD, Revit, BlueBeam, and the Microsoft Office suite of software.
  • Experience with MS Office programs
  • Desire to work as a pro-active team player
  • Exceptional technical writing and communication skills

Salary range: $128,480-163,520

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 is not 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 office environment. Coffman's Portland office is located in the heart of downtown at Sixth & Main with bike parking, workout facilities, locker rooms with private showers, a tenant lounge and outdoor patio, and beautiful views of downtown from the 16th floor of our modern office space that has a kitchen, conference room and wellness room. Enjoy the vibrant food scene, coffee roasters, and breweries with easy access to public transportation and the waterfront. Join us!

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

Glassdoor Reviews: 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
  • #34 Top 80 Engineering Firms, Building Design + Construction, 2022
  • #29 Zweig Group Hot Firm List, Zweig Group, 2021
  • #157 Top 500 Design Firms, Engineering News-Record, 2023, 2024
  • Voted #2 Best Place to Work!

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 so we can provide reasonable accommodation.

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

Equal Opportunity Statement

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.

Follow Us!

Website: www.coffman.com

Twitter: @CoffmanEngineer

Instagram: @CoffmanEngineers

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coffman-engineers

Facebook: @CoffmanEngineers

What Coffman Engineers employees say

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