Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Research causes of fires, determine fire protection methods, and design or recommend materials or equipment such as structural components or fire-detection equipment to assist organizations in safeguarding life and property against fire, explosion, and related hazards.
Median pay: $115,160/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +4.4% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 1,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Advise architects, builders, and other construction personnel on fire prevention equipment and techniques and on fire code and standard interpretation and compliance.
• Design fire detection equipment, alarm systems, and fire extinguishing devices and systems.
• Inspect buildings or building designs to determine fire protection system requirements and potential problems in areas such as water supplies, exit locations, and construction materials.
• Review building plans to verify compliance with fire code.
• Prepare and write reports detailing specific fire prevention and protection issues, such as work performed, revised codes or standards, and proposed review schedules.
• Consult with authorities to discuss safety regulations and to recommend changes as necessary.
• Evaluate fire department performance and the laws and regulations affecting fire prevention or fire safety.
• Direct the purchase, modification, installation, testing, maintenance, and operation of fire prevention and protection systems.
What's the median pay for Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers?
The median pay for Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers is $115,160 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers?
Employment for Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers is projected to change +4.4% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers?
About 1,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.