ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Principal Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

The Building People

Fire Protection Engineer

Washington, DC

$94K - $126K/yr

The Fire Protection Engineer serves as a qualified fire protection engineering professional and an integral part of the design process as it relates to fire protection. Responsibilities include, but ...

The Building People

Fire Protection Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$94K - $126K/yr

The Fire Protection Engineer serves as a qualified fire protection engineering professional and an integral part of the design process as it relates to fire protection. Responsibilities include, but ...

Jensen Hughes

Fire Protection Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$82K - $111K/yr

Company Overview Throughout our worldwide network of experts, clients and communities, we are renowned for our leadership in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly ...

Intrepid

Fire Protection Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$83K - $113K/yr

As the Fire Protection Engineer , you will be responsible for providing fire protection engineering expertise in support of facilities, infrastructure, and mission-critical operations within the ...

Intrepidgs

Fire Protection Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$88K - $119K/yr

As the Fire Protection Engineer , you will be responsible for providing fire protection engineering expertise in support of facilities, infrastructure, and mission-critical operations within the ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Fire Protection Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$62K - $141K/yr

Fire Protection Engineer The Opportunity: As a Fire Protection Engineer, you'll serve as a subject matter expert on fire protection and life safety issues affecting government facilities. You'll ...

HGA

Fire Protection Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$83K - $155K/yr

HGA is hiring - Fire Protection Engineer! Washington, DC HGA is expanding our Fire Protection Engineering Department, and we're looking for a talented licensed engineer to join our collaborative ...

Jensen Hughes

Fire Protection Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$90K - $160K/yr

Job Overview Jensen Hughes has a new job opportunity for a Fire Protection Engineer in one of our Maryland or Virginia Offices. The role is available for in-office and hybrid work arrangements.

Intrepidgs

Fire Protection Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$83K - $113K/yr

As the Fire Protection Engineer , you will be responsible for providing fire protection engineering expertise in support of facilities, infrastructure, and mission-critical operations within the ...

Intrepid

Fire Protection Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$88K - $119K/yr

As the Fire Protection Engineer , you will be responsible for providing fire protection engineering expertise in support of facilities, infrastructure, and mission-critical operations within the ...

HGA

Fire Protection Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$83K - $155K/yr

HGA is hiring - Fire Protection Engineer! Washington, DC HGA is expanding our Fire Protection Engineering Department, and we're looking for a talented licensed engineer to join our collaborative ...

Wiley|Wilson

Fire Protection - Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$95K - $123K/yr

As a Fire Protection Engineer, you will provide technical leadership in the design and analysis of active and passive fire protection systems and strategies. You will be involved in projects serving ...

Wiley|Wilson

Fire Protection Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$95K - $123K/yr

As a Fire Protection Engineer, you will provide technical leadership in the design and analysis of active and passive fire protection systems and strategies. You will be involved in projects serving ...

Wiley Wilson

Fire Protection - Engineer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$88K - $119K/yr

As a Fire Protection Engineer, you will provide technical leadership in the design and analysis of active and passive fire protection systems and strategies. You will be involved in projects serving ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Fire Protection Engineer JobsPrincipal Fire Protection Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Principal Fire Protection Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$83.8K

$166.7K

$240.7K

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal fire protection engineer in Washington, DC is $166,741.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,200.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal fire protection engineer?

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 are popular job titles related to Principal Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Principal Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Fire Protection Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Principal Fire Protection Engineer jobs near you

Fire Protection Engineer

National Fire Sprinkler Association

Linthicum Heights, MD

$125K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description

About the NFSA

The National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) is the leading voice of the fire sprinkler industry, dedicated to saving lives and protecting property through fire sprinkler advocacy, technical expertise, and education. NFSA engineers provide essential technical support to our members through the Expert of the Day (EOD) service, research initiatives, industry representation, and training programs.


As a Fire Protection Engineer at NFSA, you will play a critical role in shaping fire protection standards, educating industry professionals, and advancing life safety. If you are passionate about fire protection engineering and want to make a national impact, we encourage you to apply.


Key Responsibilities

  • Technical Leadership: Represent NFSA on key technical committees (NFPA, ICC, AWWA, ISO, etc.).
  • Member Support: Serve as an Expert of the Day (EOD), providing technical guidance to NFSA members.
  • Research & Industry Advocacy: Lead and coordinate fire protection research initiatives.
  • Public Speaking & Education: Deliver presentations at NFSA and industry events.
  • Content Development: Write technical articles, publications, and training materials.
  • Training & Instruction: Assist in developing and delivering educational programs (in-person and virtual).
  • Other duties as assigned to support NFSA's mission and technical initiatives.

Requirements

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection Engineering or a related technical field.
  • 4-8 years of experience in fire protection engineering or sprinkler system design.
  • Existing P.E. license.
  • Strong communication skills with experience in technical writing, public speaking, and presenting.

Preferred:

  • Advanced degree in Fire Protection Engineering or a related field.
  • Experience in research and technical publication related to fire protection.
  • Background in adult education and delivering training programs

Why Join NFSA?

NFSA offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

  • Retirement Plan with employer contributions and match.
  • Comprehensive Health Benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Paid Time Off: Two weeks of vacation, plus additional personal leave.
  • Professional Growth Opportunities, including networking and industry involvement.

Preferred Location: Baltimore, MD (NFSA Headquarters) - Remote work sites may be considered for highly qualified candidates.

Apply