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Principal Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Fire Protection Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$95K - $128K/yr

AECOM is seeking a Fire Protection Engineer to be based in Arlington, VA . Our business focuses primarily on providing professional and technical services in the engineering design, code consultation ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$95K - $128K/yr

AECOM is seeking a Fire Protection Engineer to be based in Arlington, VA . Our business focuses primarily on providing professional and technical services in the engineering design, code consultation ...

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 ...

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 · 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 ...

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Overview: We're looking for a Senior Fire Protection Engineer who wants to do more than great technical work - someone who wants to build something. Operating within a seller-doer model, this ...

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Principal Fire Protection Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$77K

$153.2K

$221.1K

How much do principal fire protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal fire protection engineer in Reston, VA is $153,161.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,300.00 and $180,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Principal Fire Protection Engineers?

Principal Fire Protection Engineers are senior professionals who lead the design, implementation, and management of fire protection systems in buildings and industrial facilities. They ensure that structures comply with fire safety codes and standards, conduct risk assessments, and develop solutions to prevent and mitigate fire hazards. In addition to technical expertise, they often supervise teams, consult with clients, and guide projects from concept through completion. Their role is critical in safeguarding lives and property through proactive fire safety engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Fire Protection Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Fire Protection Engineer, you need an in-depth understanding of fire protection engineering principles, building codes, and extensive experience, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Mastery of technical tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, hydraulic calculation software, and familiarity with NFPA standards is essential. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you manage teams and liaise with clients and regulatory bodies. These skills ensure the design and implementation of fire protection systems that safeguard lives, property, and comply with legal requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by a Principal Fire Protection Engineer when managing large-scale projects?

Principal Fire Protection Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple disciplines, ensuring compliance with evolving fire codes, and managing tight project timelines. They must balance technical requirements with client expectations and frequently lead teams through complex problem-solving scenarios. Effective communication and proactive risk management are essential for overcoming these obstacles and delivering safe, code-compliant designs on schedule.

What is the difference between Principal Fire Protection Engineer vs Fire Protection Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Fire Protection EngineerFire Protection Engineer
CredentialsPE license, fire safety certificationsPE license, fire safety certifications
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, project oversightDesign, analysis, and implementation
Industry UsageSenior projects, complex systemsDesign and support roles

The Principal Fire Protection Engineer typically holds senior responsibilities, overseeing complex projects and leading teams, while the Fire Protection Engineer focuses on designing and implementing fire safety systems. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and level of responsibility.

What job categories do people searching Principal Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Principal Fire Protection Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Principal Fire Protection Engineer job openings:
Fire Protection Engineer

Fire Protection Engineer

AECOM

Arlington, VA • On-site

$95K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


AECOM rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 79 rated construction


Job description

Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
AECOM is seeking a Fire Protection Engineer to be based in Arlington, VA.
Our business focuses primarily on providing professional and technical services in the engineering design, code consultation and construction phase services for wide variety of clients both in the private sector and public sector. We execute large and complex engineering projects and provide a comprehensive range of professional planning and design, systems engineering and technical assistance, program and construction management, and operations and maintenance services.
The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
  • Work closely with other engineers, executing tasks assigned by the department manager including developing fire suppression designs, fire alarm designs, mass notification system designs and performing life safety code analysis work.
  • Perform performance-based design of fire suppression and fire alarm/mass notification systems.
  • Conduct life safety code analysis and egress analysis.
  • Fire modeling and egress modeling.
  • Battery hazard / fire risk mitigation.

Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Fire Protection Engineering or related field from an ABET accredited University and 2 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
  • Due to the nature of the work, U.S. Citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Proficient with REVIT and/or AutoCAD.
  • Experience with Microsoft Word, Outlook and similar Microsoft suite products.
  • Positive attitude and strong written/verbal communication skills.

Additional Information
  • Relocation assistance is not available for this role
  • Sponsorship for US Employment Authorization is not available now or in the future for this position.
  • This position requires a hybrid work schedule which includes in office work in Arlington, VA. The selected candidate must be available to work in Arlington, VA on a scheduled basis.

About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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