Fire Protection Engineer: A Career in Nuclear Safety
The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is currently seeking a highly skilled Fire Protection Engineer to join the Division of Fuel Cycle, Fuel Facility Licensing Branch 2. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply engineering principles toward the vital goal of protecting public health, the environment, and the safe operation of nuclear materials facilities.
Job Responsibilities
As a Fire Protection Engineer, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Reviewing and evaluating fire safety in license applications for fuel cycle facilities.
- Drafting new regulations, standards, and regulatory guides.
- Evaluating the adequacy of licensee fire protection programs, including staff training and equipment.
- Providing expert testimony and technical advice to agency management.
- Preparing comprehensive safety evaluation reports and technical publications.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess an accredited engineering degree or equivalent professional licensing (P.E./EIT).
- Demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience in fire protection and nuclear facility safety.
- Pass a rigorous security background check and drug screening.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Salary | $143,913 – $187,093 |
| Location | Rockville, Maryland |
| Security Clearance | Q Access Authorization |
| Closing Date | September 10, 2026 |
Salary Overview
This position is compensated at a high level within the federal pay scale, reflecting the expertise required for the role. The starting salary is $143,913, with the potential to reach $187,093 based on qualifications and performance.
Benefits
Federal employees at the NRC enjoy a robust suite of benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- A generous Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government contributions.
- Paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid holidays.
- Transit benefits and flexible work environments.
Application Tips
Your resume is the most critical component of your application. Ensure it is concise (no more than 2 pages), uses results-focused language, and clearly connects your experience to the duties listed in the announcement. Do not include personal photographs or sensitive information.
A career with the NRC offers more than just a paycheck; it provides an opportunity to protect the nation and shape the future of nuclear safety. If you have the engineering expertise and a commitment to public service, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Fire Protection Engineer Job Matters
Protect the future of nuclear energy. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is seeking an expert Fire Protection Engineer to join our mission-critical team in Rockville, Maryland.
Fire Protection Engineer Job Overview
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is hiring a Fire Protection Engineer for the Office of Nuclear Materials Safety and Safeguards. This role serves as a technical authority, ensuring the safety of nuclear fuel cycle facilities by evaluating fire hazards and developing regulatory standards. You will play a vital part in protecting public health and the environment through expert analysis and technical oversight.
Requirements for Fire Protection Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test
- Must meet and maintain security and suitability requirements
- Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant professional engineering discipline (ABET-accredited), or current P.E. registration, or EIT certification
- At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level in the federal service or equivalent private/public sector experience
- Must serve a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Fire Protection Engineer
- Demonstrated expertise in fire protection engineering for nuclear fuel cycle facilities
- Proven experience in licensing reviews, regulatory compliance, and technical documentation
- Experience with integrated hazard analysis and interdisciplinary coordination
- Ability to provide expert testimony and support policy, standards, and rulemaking
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive health and life insurance plans
- âś“Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement savings)
- âś“Paid annual and sick leave
- âś“11 paid federal holidays per year
- âś“Flexible Spending Accounts for health and dependent care
- âś“Dental and Vision insurance options
- âś“Transit and commuting benefits
- âś“Supportive work-life balance initiatives
đź’ˇ How to Apply Fire Protection Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Fire Protection Engineer Job
- Read the full job announcement carefully
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile
- Prepare a concise resume (limit to 2 pages)
- Gather your official or unofficial college transcripts
- Complete the online application and answer all supplemental questions
- Submit all required documentation through the USAJOBS portal before the deadline
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your specialized experience in the format requested
- Do not include photos or sensitive personal data on your resume
- Double-check that all required documentation is uploaded and in English
- Focus your resume on results-oriented accomplishments
- Submit your application well before the September 10, 2026, deadline to account for technical issues
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of this position?
You will serve as a technical expert responsible for evaluating fire safety in nuclear fuel cycle facilities, drafting regulatory standards, and ensuring compliance with agency policies.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position may be eligible for situational telework in accordance with current agency policies.
What security clearance is required?
The role requires Q Access Authorization. New hires may be eligible for a 145(b) waiver pending the completion of a full background investigation.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET on September 10, 2026.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Yes, this position is eligible for relocation services.
Job from Nuclear Regulatory Commission
The NRC is an independent agency dedicated to the mission of ensuring that nuclear energy is used safely. The agency recruits professionals from diverse backgrounds—including academia, the military, and private industry—to create a team that values innovation, leadership, and professional growth. Working at the NRC means contributing to the peaceful use of nuclear materials in medicine, research, and industrial applications.