Fire Inspector/Plan Reviewer

Facilities & Operations is a positive organization dedicated to the principles of being respectful, collaborative, solutions-based, and proactive.

About the role

The University of Michigan's Fire Safety Services (FSS) program, within Environment, Health & Safety (EHS), is seeking a full-time Fire Inspector/Plan Reviewer. This position reports directly to the University Fire Marshal. Fire safety begins with ensuring that all University facilities are equipped with appropriate life-safety systems and that those systems remain fully operational. FSS reviews construction and renovation plans and inspects life-safety systems to verify compliance with applicable codes, standards, and University requirements.

Responsibilities

• Review plans for construction and renovation projects to verify compliance with applicable codes and standards and communicate identified discrepancies to project managers and administrators.
• Evaluate facility evacuation and emergency plans and advise facility managers and administrative staff on implementing corrective actions.
• Review shop drawing submittals for compliance with project specifications and applicable codes and standards.
• Develop, coordinate, and implement educational programs and initiatives for Campus Fire Safety Awareness Month.
• Serve as a liaison to the State of Michigan Bureau of Fire Services regarding compliance with applicable administrative rules, codes, and standards.
• Collaborate with local fire departments to coordinate site reviews, emergency-response preplanning, and training activities, as needed.
• Coordinate inspections and acceptance testing of life-safety and property-protection system installations to verify compliance with applicable codes, standards, and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) publications.
• Assist with fire-incident investigations by identifying preventive measures and recommending corrective actions to reduce the risk of future incidents.
• Consult with third-party organizations to evaluate the potential fire- and life-safety impacts of special events on University facilities.
• Participate in fire/life safety committees, meetings, conferences, and training to maintain expertise and consult with peers and subject matter experts.
• Conduct site inspections before special events and review requests involving pyrotechnics, open flames, and ecological burns on university property.
• Participate in weekly on-call rotation for emergency fire safety response.
• Support university events, including athletic events, dignitary visits, and large gatherings, during and outside normal business hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Travel routinely, both on and off campus, to perform inspections, attend meetings, participate in training, or support other fire safety responsibilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in fire science, engineering, chemical sciences, or a related field.
• NFPA or ICC Fire Plan Reviewer certification.
• At least six years of professional experience in fire science or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience working successfully in a complex organizational environment.
• Commitment to fostering an ethical, inclusive, and collegial workplace.
• Strong interpersonal, de-escalation, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to perform inspections and prepare clear, accurate reports.
• Knowledge of modern fire prevention principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment.
• Knowledge and experience applying and interpreting fire codes, life safety codes, building codes, and related standards.
• Experience conducting detailed plan reviews and preparing related reports.
• Knowledge of construction methods and materials as they relate to fire safety.
• Strong time management, organizational, and analytical skills, with the ability to manage deadlines and priorities under pressure.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications and software programs.
• Ability to pass a physical examination required for emergency response duties and use of personal protective equipment.
• Valid driver's license.

Qualifications

• Experience conducting certified fire- and life-safety plan reviews for a local or state government agency.
• Fire Inspector I or II certification.
• Knowledge and understanding of building codes related to fire and life safety.
• National Fire Academy or State of Michigan Fire Investigation Course.

Benefits

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off, including maternity and paternal leaves
• A retirement plan that provides immediate vesting and two-for-one matching contributions after 12 months
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance, dental, and vision plans
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Pay

Candidates at the underfill level may be eligible for a salary range of $73,000 - $85,000.

Schedule

• Support for university events during and outside normal business hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Participation in weekly on-call rotation for emergency fire safety response.