City of Boulder

Fire Protection Engineer

Boulder, CO Full time

It’s a great time to join the City of Boulder!

Application Deadline:

January 9, 2026

Compensation Details:

Full Pay Range

77,417.60 - 112,153.60

Generally, the hiring range is from the minimum up to 80% of the range.This is a full-time salaried position.

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Benefit Eligibility Group:

Non Union (30+ Hours)

Locate the Benefit Eligibility Group value on the Employee Benefit Eligibility document to identify the benefits offered for this job.

Job Description Summary:

Under general supervision, the Fire Protection Engineer provides technical expertise in fire protection engineering, code enforcement, plan review, and fire investigation. Supports community risk reduction and fire prevention efforts by applying engineering principles to safeguard life and property.

Job Description:

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Reviews building plans, fire protection system designs, and construction documents for compliance with fire and life safety codes. 

  • Conducts field inspections of construction projects, fire protection systems, and hazardous operations. 

  • Provides technical guidance to fire prevention staff, developers, architects, and engineers regarding fire code requirements. 

  • Performs engineering analysis related to fire protection systems, hazardous materials, and life safety. 

  • Assists in the investigation of fires, explosions, and hazardous incidents to determine origin, cause, and contributing factors. 

  • Develops fire code interpretations, policies, and standards consistent with national model codes and City ordinances. 

  • Prepares technical reports, findings, and recommendations related to fire protection engineering issues. 

  • Provides expert testimony and technical support in legal or code enforcement proceedings. 

  • Participates in the development and delivery of community risk reduction and fire safety education programs. 

  • Performs other related duties as assigned. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Ability to apply fire protection engineering principles to plan review, inspections, and investigations. 

  • Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences. 

  • Knowledge of fire and building codes, standards, and fire protection engineering principles. 

  • Knowledge of fire protection systems including sprinklers, alarms, and special suppression systems. 

  • Knowledge of hazardous materials management and life safety systems. 

  • Skill in technical writing, analysis, and report preparation. 

  • Valid driver’s license and ability to maintain an acceptable motor vehicle record. 

  • Have and maintain acceptable background information including criminal conviction history. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Master’s Degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field. 

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license in Fire Protection Engineering. 

  • Experience in fire protection system design, code enforcement, or fire investigation. 

  • Certification in Fire Inspector II, Fire Plans Examiner, or related ICC/NFPA certifications. 

  • Experience providing expert testimony or technical consultation. 

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field. 

  • Two (2) years of experience in fire protection engineering, plan review, or code enforcement. 

  • Possession of or ability to obtain relevant ICC/NFPA certifications within one year of hire. 

SUPERVISION 

Supervision Received: Division Chief Fire Marshal

Supervision Exercised: None. 

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS 

  • Physical and Mental Effort: Requires ability to perform site inspections, review plans, and conduct investigations. Involves extended periods of standing, walking, and reviewing technical documents. 

  • Work Environment: Work performed in office settings, construction sites, and field inspections. May involve exposure to fire scenes, hazardous materials, and inclement weather. 

  • Machines and Equipment Used: Computers, engineering software, fire protection system testing equipment, vehicles, and standard office equipment. 

Additional Job Description:

Last updated: December 2025

The City of Boulder is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected statute. For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, please send a request to riskmanagement@bouldercolorado.gov.