Fire Protection Engineer — Building Systems Consulting
San Jose, CA
On-site / local travel | Full-time
Base salary: $85,000–$130,000 (DOE)
An established building systems engineering consultancy is seeking an experienced Fire Protection Engineer to lead fire and life safety design across a diverse range of projects in the San Francisco Bay Area. This role is ideal for a consulting-side engineer who is ready to take ownership of fire protection scopes, manage project responsibilities, and mentor junior team members.
Projects span commercial, institutional, laboratory, and technically complex environments. Most travel is local and completed as day trips to project sites.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the design and development of fire protection systems, including layout, specifications, and equipment selection
Perform fire hazard analyses and code compliance reviews
Develop coordinated construction documents and technical specifications
Manage fire protection scopes across multiple projects, ensuring schedules and quality standards are met
Coordinate closely with HVAC, electrical, and other engineering disciplines
Mentor and guide junior fire protection engineers
Participate in project meetings and client interactions
Contribute to internal technical knowledge-sharing and professional development
Maintain awareness of applicable codes, standards, and best practices
Pursue and maintain professional licensure, as appropriate
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering or a related engineering discipline
5+ years of experience in a fire protection or building systems consulting environment
Demonstrated ability to lead fire protection design efforts and manage project responsibilities
Strong working knowledge of NFPA codes and fire alarm, suppression, and sprinkler systems
Clear, professional communication skills and comfort working client-facing
Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred; licensure-in-progress considered
Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to the San Francisco Bay Area
How to Apply
If you’d like to share your resume, we’re glad to take a look. We review every submission carefully and reach out when a candidate’s background aligns with this role.
Let’s chat.
We’re a boutique recruiting team focused exclusively on the AEC industry.
We help architecture, engineering, and construction firms find great people—whether it’s one critical hire or a long-term growth plan. From emerging professionals to senior leaders, we recruit for roles that shape and support the built environment.
We specialize in positions across accounting & finance, architecture & design, MEP & fire protection, and business operations.
Led by Isaac Zamora, a former CFO for leading national AEC firms, Building Talent brings real industry insight and a strategic, people-first approach to every search. We prioritize relationships, long-term fit, and the kind of support that builds trust over time.
We’re your trusted partner in growth. Let’s Chat.
