Become a Fire Protection Engineer with the U.S. Army
The U.S. Army is hiring a dedicated Fire Protection Engineer to support the Directorate of Public Works at Aberdeen Proving Ground. This role is pivotal in ensuring the safety and longevity of military facilities and housing. If you are a licensed professional looking to transition your engineering career into a public service role that protects critical national infrastructure, this position offers an exceptional environment for growth.
Job Responsibilities
As a Fire Protection Engineer, you will:
- Serve as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for fire and life safety.
- Manage project life cycles from initiation to facility completion.
- Lead design teams in creating systems for fire suppression and alarm signaling.
- Author technical specifications that adhere to NFPA and Unified Facility Criteria (UFC).
- Assess and inspect infrastructure at both Aberdeen Proving Ground and Adelphi, Maryland.
Salary and Grade Comparison
| Level | Salary Range | Responsibility Scope |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | $85,447 - $111,087 | Developmental role with close supervision |
| GS-12 | $102,415 - $133,142 | Senior technical expert and project lead |
Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
- Professional licensure or specific engineering education (ABET accredited).
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Must provide official transcripts and professional certification copies.
Benefits
Employees receive a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, generous leave policies, and a stable pension system (FERS). Additionally, candidates may be eligible for student loan repayment or relocation incentives depending on government needs.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume does not exceed two pages. This is a common point of disqualification. Clearly define your role as a project manager or engineer by highlighting specific fire-related projects you have led. Be sure to link your experience directly to NFPA or UFC standards.
Serving as a Fire Protection Engineer at the Aberdeen Proving Ground allows you to apply your technical skills in a high-stakes environment. Apply by September 15, 2026, to contribute to the safety of our nation's military infrastructure.
Why This Fire Protection Engineer Job Matters
Protecting the nation's critical infrastructure starts with you. Join the US Army Garrison team as a Fire Protection Engineer and secure the safety of our military facilities.
Fire Protection Engineer Job Overview
The U.S. Army Installation Management Command is seeking a skilled Fire Protection Engineer to join the Design Branch at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. This role offers an opportunity to serve as a vital technical expert, overseeing fire safety, life systems, and hazard mitigation for a diverse portfolio of military facilities and family housing. This position is a developmental opportunity for the GS-11 to GS-12 grade range and serves as an Authoritative Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for fire protection projects.
Requirements for Fire Protection Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree or higher in an ABET-accredited engineering program or equivalent combination of education and experience
- One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (GS-09 for GS-11; GS-11 for GS-12)
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
- Submission of academic transcripts and proof of professional licensure/certifications
- Completion of a one-year probationary period
- Submission of financial disclosure reports (OGE 278 or OGE 450)
Preferred Qualifications for Fire Protection Engineer
- Professional Engineer (PE) license
- Experience as a project manager or design team lead for fire protection systems
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply NFPA and Unified Facility Criteria (UFC)
- Proven experience in developing comprehensive construction specifications
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS)
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Student loan repayment assistance eligibility
- ✓Tax-advantaged flexible spending accounts
💡 How to Apply Fire Protection Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Fire Protection Engineer Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile
- Prepare a resume limited to two pages or less highlighting specialized experience
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing platform
- Upload required documents, including transcripts and professional license copies
- Review your application package for completeness and accuracy
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 15, 2026
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly state your hours worked per week for each role to count as specialized experience.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit; excess pages will be excluded from review.
- Avoid using obscure acronyms; utilize clear, professional language to describe your achievements.
- Verify that your uploaded transcripts and certifications are legible before final submission.
- Use the USA Staffing Applicant Resource Center if you encounter technical difficulties during the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Fire Protection Engineer at APG?
You will act as the technical authority for fire safety, leading projects for facility and infrastructure designs while ensuring compliance with national and military codes.
Is this a remote-eligible position?
No, this position is located at the Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, and is not listed as telework-eligible.
Can I substitute education for experience for the GS-12 level?
No, for the GS-12 level, you must possess the required specialized experience; education substitution is not permitted at this level.
Job from United States Army Installation Management Command
The U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) provides the infrastructure and services that allow the Army to maintain its readiness. By integrating civilian expertise into a military environment, IMCOM fosters a collaborative, inclusive culture that prioritizes technical excellence and mission success.