Fire Inspector II

About the Role

This position enforces the fire prevention code through inspections of new and existing buildings and regulated properties.

Responsibilities

• Inspect job sites and buildings for compliance with all applicable codes and standards pertaining to the installation, testing, and inspection of fire protection equipment and systems.
• Witness required contractor-conducted performance tests.
• Inspect new and existing structures and permitted worksites to ensure compliance with the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (VSFPC), the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC), and associated Fairfax County amendments.
• Investigate and troubleshoot problems related to building fire protection equipment and systems.
• Investigate complaints against builders or property owners, evaluate their validity, and recommend corrective action when necessary.
• Respond to inquiries from citizens, contractors, owners, and developers regarding fire protection equipment, installation status, permitting requirements, codes, and standards.
• Enter inspection results into a portable computer terminal or maintain complete records of inspections and test results.
• Identify regulation sections being violated, issue written code violation notices, and take necessary action to ensure violations are corrected.
• Read and interpret approved building plans and specifications.
• Review requests for inspections and coordinate with other county agencies and departments.
• Interpret applicable codes and standards.
• Attend meetings, conferences, and training.
• Prepare reports and compose correspondence.
• Respond to on-call duties outside of normal business hours.

Requirements

• Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to a high school graduation or a GED, plus one year of commensurate experience as a Fire Inspector I and three years of work experience or knowledge in one of the following areas: fire protection, firefighting, or the electrical, building, plumbing, and mechanical trades.
• Completion of a criminal background check, sanctions screening, and driving record check.
• Possession of a valid motor vehicle driver’s license.
• Certification in Civilian Entry from the Virginia Department of Fire Programs or successful completion of Firefighter I and II.
• Certification in Hazardous Materials Awareness from FEMA IS-5.A - An Introduction to Hazardous Materials.
• Certification as a Fire Inspector I/II (NFPA 1031) from the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.
• Certification from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Building Code Academy (CORE Module).
• The following certifications must be obtained within 18 months of appointment:
  • Certification from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Course Fire Protection Systems Inspection.

If applicants do not meet the Fire Inspector II certification requirements, vacancies may be underfilled at the level of Fire Inspector I (Pay Grade S17) for up to one year pending requirement completion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Course "Fire Protection Systems Inspection".

Skills

• Knowledge of fire protection equipment and systems.
• Knowledge of fire chemistry and behavior, fire prevention fundamentals, general fire safety, physical properties of flammable and combustible solids, liquids, and gases, and fundamentals of fire suppression.
• Knowledge of the theory and practice of model codes and standards.
• Knowledge of the materials and practices used in building construction.
• Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and engineering drawings.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as fee calculations, proportions, percentages, area, and circumference.
• Ability to identify situations that may impact the health, welfare, or safety of the public and take appropriate remedial actions.
• Ability to conduct inspections of buildings and facilities to ensure code compliance.
• Ability to work with people and obtain cooperation, even in difficult situations.
• Ability to prepare clear and factual reports.
• Ability to use sound judgment in making independent decisions.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
• Must be able to speak articulately in person and on the telephone.
• Ability to work long periods at a desk.
• Fully participate, as required, as a civilian member of an emergency organization.
• Ability to climb stairs, climb a ladder, walk for long distances, drive, bend over, and stoop.

All duties must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.