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Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in Sunnyvale, CA (NOW HIRING)

As a Protection & Control Engineer, you will have the opportunity to act as the technical lead for all engineering activities in assignments. Each day, you will ensure the activities related to all ...

... Protection business. Responsibilities include servicing fire alarm systems to the prescribed standards; performing on-site emergency troubleshooting; programming and repairs of our customers fire ...

... Protection business. Responsibilities include servicing fire alarm systems to the prescribed standards; performing on-site emergency troubleshooting; programming and repairs of our customers fire ...

Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Monitor the installation of piping, HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems to ensure ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. * 3-5 years of experience in ...

Monitor the installation of piping, HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems to ensure ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. * 3-5 years of experience in ...

Monitor the installation of piping, HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems to ensure ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. * 3-5 years of experience in ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

Perform plumbing/fire protection calculations including code research. * Write and review ... Licensed Professional Engineer (PE). * 7+ years of experience working as a mechanical engineer ...

You will serve as a primary technical voice, ensuring that HVAC, Plumbing, and Fire Protection designs are innovative, compliant, and seamlessly integrated with other engineering disciplines. Who We ...

Engineer fire protection systems including sprinkler, fire pump, water storage, containment, gaseous suppression and misting systems. * Engineer sustainable plumbing systems including grey water ...

Chief Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$84.15/hr

The Chief Engineer is ABM's primary point of contact for day-to-day operations. They will create an ... Fire Protection System issues in the facilities while minimizing risk and business impact and ...

The Chief Engineer is ABM's primary point of contact for day-to-day operations. They will create an ... Resolve all electrical, mechanical and Fire Protection System issues in the facilities while ...

Showing results 41-60

Fire Protection Engineer information

See Sunnyvale, CA salary details

$53.4K

$116.8K

$202.5K

How much do fire protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire protection engineer in Sunnyvale, CA is $116,797.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,400.00 and $131,400.00 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 job categories do people searching Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA are:

What cities near Sunnyvale, CA are hiring for Fire Protection Engineer jobs?

Cities near Sunnyvale, CA with the most Fire Protection Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Fire Protection Engineer job openings in Sunnyvale, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,797 per year, or $56.2 per hour.

Principal Engineer - Thermal Sciences (MS/PhD)

Exponent Inc.

Menlo Park, CA

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients’ most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.  

Our vision is to engage multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.  

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you’ll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team! 

Key statistics: 

  • 950+ Consultants 
  • 640+ Ph.D.s 
  • 90+ Disciplines 
  • 30+ Offices globally 

We are currently seeking a Principal Engineer for our Thermal Sciences Practice in Menlo Park, CA; Natick, MA; Chicago, IL Metro Area; Atlanta, GA; Seattle, WA; Los Angeles, CA; Denver, CO; Houston, TX; New York, NY; Washington DC Metro Area; Philadelphia, PA; Tampa, FL; or Phoenix, AZ. This position will involve applying fundamental engineering and scientific techniques to real-world problems in failure analysis, risk mitigation, and product development. As a Principal Engineer, you will cultivate relationships with existing clients, identify new business opportunities, lead teams to perform leading-edge technical analyses, and contribute to the growth of our Thermal Sciences Practice.    


  • Leading projects for failure analysis, root cause analysis investigations, product development and expert witness engagements in requisite areas of expertise
  • Identifying and pursuing business development opportunities
  • Managing multidisciplinary teams and collaborating with experts in other technical disciplines
  • Project management and building client relationships
  • Performing engineering calculations and analyses
  • Performing laboratory experiments and analytical or computational modeling
  • Planning and executing testing programs
  • Preparing written reports, proposals, and presentations
  • Domestic and international travel will likely be required
  • Most assignments will require the ability to gather information from, and convey technical conclusions to, individuals in engineering, the legal profession, business and industry

  • Ph.D. or Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, or a related field, with a practical and theoretical understanding of combustion, heat transfer and fluid mechanics
  • Presently legally authorized to work in the United States.  No immigration sponsorship or processing required. 
  • 10+ years of relevant technical consulting experience in area(s) such as fires and explosions; product safety; process safety and risk assessment; fire protection engineering; plant engineering design, commissioning and maintenance; alternate energy generation; energy storage; and/or electrochemistry
  • Prior experience testifying as an expert witness is required
  • Significant demonstrated experience generating business and managing client relationships
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) Licensure is required
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills
  • Ability to gather information from, and convey technical conclusions to, individuals in engineering, the legal profession, business and industry

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV (Curriculum Vitae) with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page].


To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:
https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

We value and encourage diversity, equity and inclusion across all facets of our firm. Having a team built of people with different backgrounds, skills and perspectives allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.

Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits, as well as compensation and recognition programs, empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference.


At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients. #LI-Onsite


Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Manager level and above, total compensation includes base salary, annual bonus, and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is depending on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.


USD $241,000.00 - USD $294,500.00 /Yr.

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:  https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent 

 
Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. 

 
If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com. 


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