
Lead Fire Protection Engineer
Job Description
The Opportunity
We’re seeking a Lead Fire Protection Engineer to work remotely, or in one of our national offices, to oversee the design, coordination, and delivery of fire protection systems for a variety of building types. In this role, you’ll manage project teams, lead client coordination, and produce high‑quality engineering deliverables including calculations, drawings, and specifications. You’ll apply advanced knowledge of NFPA and building codes, oversee system design and equipment selection, and perform site visits throughout the project lifecycle. This position also provides leadership through mentoring staff, improving internal standards, and supporting client relationships. Ideal candidates have strong technical expertise in fire protection, plumbing, and mechanical systems, excellent organizational and communication skills, and proficiency in Revit/AutoCAD.
Who We Are
PAE is an engineering and design firm that turns complex challenges into reality. By leveraging the latest technologies, we solve problems in unique ways, and our designs enable buildings and communities to be more resilient and efficient. PAE is trusted by our clients in every aspect of a project's lifespan, from idea to occupancy. We set ambitious goals backed by analysis to significantly conserve water and energy while balancing costs and long-term operational needs. As a B Corp, we measure success by the benefits our projects provide to our clients, our communities, and our planet. We embrace innovation, transparency, sustainability, and lifelong curiosity.
What We Offer
- Hiring Base Salary Range: $102,600-$126,800 annual
- This position is eligible for time and a half overtime pay
The base salary is one component of PAE’s competitive compensation package for employees. We take into consideration a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, abilities, experience, education, credentials, internal equity and geographic location in determining exact salary offered. At PAE, employees are eligible for annual compensation reviews based on performance and business needs. The above range represents PAE's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
In addition, PAE offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following:
- Employer paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- Annual 401k profit sharing based on company profit for the year and account contribution
- Professional development reimbursements including state registration and professional association dues
- Employer paid commuter/parking stipend
- Cell phone stipend
- Life insurance and disability benefits
- Hybrid work schedule
- Employee Assistance Program
- 9 paid holidays including an additional employee-selected day
- Paid time off for sick leave, family leave, community service, holidays and vacation
Responsibilities
What You'll Do
- Project team leadership and discipline management, responsible for completing the project on time within budget
- Responsible for the preparation of deliverable documents including narratives, calculations, drawings, and specifications
- Attend client meetings, lead the coordination effort between external and internal project teams
- Independently evaluate and apply engineering judgment, techniques, and procedures to complete a project from concepts through construction
- Proficient in mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection design
- Independently design and plan fire protection system design and layouts
- Assemble effective project teams
- Develop project workplans, tasks, and assignments for the team
- Thorough understanding of interdisciplinary coordination
- Advanced understanding of the application of building codes and fire protection standards (NFPA)
- Oversee engineering calculations and equipment selection
- Perform site visits and issues reports
- Provide training, guidance, and mentorship for staff
- Provide updates to master specifications and standards, and improve company processes
- Develop client relationships
- Determine fire protection and plumbing system requirements for various building types
- Oversee the application of the project quality management plan (QMP)
Job Requirements
What You Bring
- Bachelor's Degree in Engineering for discipline work or equivalent experience
- Relevant professional credential (i.e., PE, CPD)
- Requires 7+ years of related work experience
- Inspire and motivate staff
- Advanced understanding of fire protection design concepts, code knowledge, and able to effectively communicate design options
- Strong delegation skills
- Attention to detail and advanced organizational skills
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Knowledge of applicable plumbing codes and standards including: UPC, IPC, NFPA, and IBC
- Revit/AutoCAD
- AutoSprink experience preferred



