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Fire Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fire Engineer

Montclair, CA · On-site

$89K - $108K/yr

... research and development functions; conducts specialized educational programs; and performs public relations activities in the interest of fire prevention and safety as directed by departmental ...

... research and development functions; conducts specialized educational programs; and performs public relations activities in the interest of fire prevention and safety as directed by departmental ...

Fire Investigator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$83K - $124K/yr

Conducts code compliance research including electrical, gas, fire, building and installation code violations. * Facilitates and helps present continuing education seminars on fire-related topics.

Fire Investigator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$83K - $124K/yr

Conducts code compliance research including electrical, gas, fire, building and installation code violations. * Facilitates and helps present continuing education seminars on fire-related topics.

Fire Investigator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$83.30 - $124.90/hr

Conducts code compliance research including electrical, gas, fire, building and installation code violations. * Facilitates and helps present continuing education seminars on fire-related topics.

New

FIRE CHIEF

Hemet, CA · On-site

$210K - $281K/yr

Fire Department Opening Date: 01/26/2026 THE CITY **THE CITY OF HEMET IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ... Ability to conduct research and prepare clear, concise and comprehensive reports. Ability to ...

FIRE CHIEF

Hemet, CA

$210K - $281K/yr

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES Plan, develop, manage, and direct Fire Department activities and services ... Ability to conduct research and prepare clear, concise and comprehensive reports. Ability to ...

The Fire Investigator is responsible for studying fire and explosion scenes. They will do all the ... Field studies and research on a daily basis. * Must travel to perform investigations within a 100 ...

Deputy Chief - Fire

Chico, CA · On-site

$196K/yr

Fire Department Opening Date: 06/04/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Position Information The Chico ... Research and assist in design of Department dispatch, communications, and computer systems.

Deputy Chief - Fire

Chico, CA · On-site

$196K/yr

Research and assist in design of Department dispatch, communications, and computer systems ... Serve as Fire Department Health and Safety Officer; supervise and coordinate station duties and ...

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Fire Research information

See California salary details

$17.3K

$81.1K

$152.5K

How much do fire research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire research in California is $81,088.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire research?

A Fire Research job involves studying fire behavior, prevention, and suppression methods to improve fire safety and firefighting techniques. Professionals in this field conduct experiments, analyze fire dynamics, and develop new materials or technologies to enhance fire resistance. They may work for government agencies, private industries, or research institutions, ensuring compliance with fire safety standards and regulations.

What does a fire research do?

In a Fire Research position, your daily responsibilities may include designing and conducting fire experiments, analyzing the physical and chemical properties of materials during combustion, and interpreting data from simulation models. You may frequently collaborate with engineers, safety specialists, and governmental agencies to develop fire prevention strategies and improve building codes or safety standards. Additionally, documentation and reporting of research findings, as well as participating in peer reviews or presenting at conferences, are common tasks. This role offers a dynamic blend of hands-on experimentation and analytical work, making it ideal for those passionate about advancing fire safety through scientific discovery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in fire research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Fire Research, you need a solid background in fire science, chemistry, engineering, or a related field, along with strong analytical and experimental skills. Familiarity with modeling software (such as FDS or Fire Dynamics Simulator), laboratory testing equipment, and sometimes certifications like Certified Fire Investigator (CFI) or related safety credentials are highly advantageous. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and clear communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These skills are important for accurately investigating fire behavior, ensuring research validity, and communicating findings for improvements in fire safety.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Research jobs in California?

The most popular types of Fire Research jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Fire Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,088 per year, or $39 per hour.

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

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Job description

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 designers. This position is located in either our San Diego or Northbrook office.

Building on the industry experience you bring to WJE, our team will commit to your development into a well-rounded consultant; facilitating your continued deepening of technical expertise and project management skills, encouraging your participation in industry professional development opportunities, and supporting your desire to make a meaningful impact in your field.

If you are enthusiastic about solving problems, curious about how things work, and not afraid to get your hands dirty, we want you on our team!

Responsibilities:
  • Assume responsibility for the day-to-day success of multiple projects, including acting as the primary point of contact for clients, contractors, and project teams; training and mentoring teammates; and managing small-to-medium projects, as appropriate
  • Perform on-site investigations, condition assessments, and inspections, which may include surveying, documenting deficiencies, field testing, collecting data and samples, and preparing site visit reports
  • Develop fire growth, smoke movement, and egress zone models
  • Analyze field data, interpret model results, and perform research and review of construction documents, governing codes, and design guidelines to facilitate analysis, problem-solving, and development of alternative designs for a variety of fire protection systems, building code issues, and life safety objectives
  • Prepare conceptual, preliminary, and final client deliverables, including written reports, calculation packets, construction documents, and project specifications
  • Contribute to company-wide objectives through involvement in office and company development initiatives, in-house Technical Resource Groups (TRGs) and research projects, and relevant industry committees and professional organizations (e.g., SFPE)
Qualifications/Competencies:
  • Minimum 10 years of relevant professional experience, which may include designing and evaluating various fire protection systems; conducting building code analysis and code consulting; developing equivalencies for alternative methods and materials; writing fire protection building code programs; and/or building and analyzing complex fire, smoke, and egress models
  • Bachelor's degree in fire protection engineering or related field; master's degree preferred
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (FPE); EIT in pursuit of PE will be considered on a case-by-case basis
  • Effective technical, graphical, written, and verbal communication skills
  • Familiarity with drafting, analysis, and modeling software (e.g., AutoCAD, REVIT, Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), PyroSim, Smokeview, Pathfinder, and CFAST)
  • Proactive, team player mindset with willingness to take on various responsibilities, tackle new challenges, and learn new skills
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing demands, while maintaining productive interpersonal relationships and a high standard of excellence, integrity, and attention to detail
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