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Fire Science Technology Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fire Plans Examiner

San Bernardino, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Fifteen (15) semester (23 quarter) units in Fire Science, Fire Safety, Building Inspection Technology, Engineering, Architecture or related fields from an accredited college or university. Education ...

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Desirable Qualifications Associate degree or higher in Fire Technology, Fire Science, Public Administration, or a related field. California State Fire Marshal Company Officer certification. Physical ...

Fire Department Plan Checker II

Dublin, CA ยท On-site

$71.07 - $87.37/hr

Possession of an Associate of Arts Degree from an accredited college or university with a major in architecture, construction technology, building inspection, fire science, or a closely related field.

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Fire Science Technology information

See California salary details

$27.1K

$44.7K

$62.2K

How much do fire science technology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire science technology in California is $44,703.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $49,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical career paths for a fire science technology graduate?

Graduates of a Fire Science Technology program often begin their careers as firefighters, fire inspectors, or fire investigators, and can advance to leadership roles such as fire captain, battalion chief, or fire marshal with experience and additional certifications. Many also pursue specialized positions in hazardous materials response, fire prevention education, or emergency management. The field offers opportunities for ongoing professional development, and advancement often depends on a combination of on-the-job experience, continued education, and obtaining relevant certifications. Collaboration with law enforcement, emergency medical services, and government agencies is common, providing broad exposure to public safety operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for fire science technology?

To thrive in Fire Science Technology, you need a solid understanding of fire behavior, firefighting techniques, and emergency response, typically supported by an associate degree or certification in fire science. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, incident command systems, and fire inspection technologies is essential. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and decision-making skills help professionals excel in high-pressure situations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring public safety, effective emergency response, and adherence to safety regulations.

What is the difference between Fire Science Technology vs Firefighter?

AspectFire Science TechnologyFirefighter
CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Fire Science TechnologyHigh school diploma or GED, firefighter training certification
Work EnvironmentTraining centers, laboratories, administrative rolesOn-site at fire scenes, emergency response
Industry UsageFire departments, safety agencies, educationFire suppression, rescue operations

Fire Science Technology professionals focus on fire prevention, safety protocols, and education, often working in training or administrative roles. Firefighters are frontline responders involved in active fire suppression and rescue. While both roles require knowledge of fire behavior, their daily tasks and credentials differ significantly.

Are fire science technology degrees worth it?

A fire science technology degree provides foundational knowledge for careers in fire prevention, investigation, and emergency response, often leading to roles such as firefighter or fire inspector. The degree can improve job prospects and may be required for advanced positions or certifications, but practical experience and certifications like EMT or fire officer training are also important. Overall, it can be a valuable investment for those seeking a career in fire services.

What careers can you get with a fire science technology degree?

A fire science technology degree prepares individuals for careers such as firefighter, fire inspector, fire investigator, emergency management director, and fire safety officer. These roles often require knowledge of fire behavior, safety protocols, and may require certifications like EMT or fire service training, with work typically conducted in fire stations, emergency scenes, or safety offices.

What is fire science technology?

Fire science technology is a field focused on studying fire behavior, prevention, and safety. Professionals in this area often work as firefighters, fire inspectors, or fire safety specialists, utilizing tools like fire suppression equipment and safety protocols to protect lives and property.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Science Technology jobs in California?

For Fire Science Technology jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fire Science Technology jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Science Technology jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Fire Science Technology job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 61% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $44,703 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Consulting Engineer, Fire Protection Engineering

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$89K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

We want someone passionate about mechanical engineering and problem solving.

SGH is committed to building its emerging practice in Fire Protection Engineering and Fire Science by hiring an experienced and motivated expert in fire protection and fire science technology, with skills to manage and grow its present practice. SGH is seeking engineering professionals to lead our Fire Protection Engineering Group. The professional will work under the direction of the Division Head of Structural Mechanics to provide senior leadership and direction for the group's future, as well as provide technical guidance on and participate in design, rehabilitation, and investigation fire engineering projects.

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Provide fire protection engineering consulting services.

  • Guide the growth and development of the fire protection engineering group at SGH.

  • Manage the fire protection engineering staff.

  • Recommend strategies to keep SGH at the leading edge of relevant technologies.

  • Manage project work, including budgets, staff, and client relations.

  • Provide support for and participate in forensic and litigation activities.

  • Interface with building and fire officials.

  • Market fire engineering services and develop business for fire protection engineering.

  • Coordinate with other practice areas within SGH for the overall benefit of the company.

  • Attend and assume leadership roles in identified local and national professional organizations.

  • Prepare professional papers for publication.

What You'll Need:

  • MS or PhD in Fire Protection Engineering
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in fire protection engineering.ย 

  • Professional Registration in fire protection engineering.

  • Extensive experience as project manager for different types of projects including building and fire code consulting; fire investigation; performance-based design; and fire, smoke, and egress modeling.

  • Working familiarity with fire and smoke modeling software.

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.

  • Proven ability to market and sell fire engineering services.

  • Staff management experience.

  • Ability to work in a team environment.

  • Commitment to excellence and professionalism.

  • Commitment to embrace SGH's standards for work product delivery.

  • Must have a valid driver's license and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report.ย