Fire Marshal

About the Role

The University Fire Marshal is responsible for fire code application and enforcement, fire code inspections, fire systems inspections/testing, code review for new construction and major renovations, fire drills and associated coordination, fire extinguisher program, and fire and life safety-related training. This position reports to the Director of Safety & Risk Management (SRM) and the State Fire Marshal, working independently to ensure compliance with fire and life safety codes and best practices across the MSU Bozeman campus, which includes over 120 buildings totaling more than 5 million gross square feet.

Responsibilities

• Act as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for fire code enforcement and application on the MSU Bozeman campus.
• Manage and supervise the Deputy Fire Marshal, including scheduling and coordinating duties.
• Schedule, coordinate, and supervise testing and maintenance of fire protection systems, including alarm systems, smoke detection, suppression systems, and water mains.
• Perform building fire code inspections in collaboration with building supervisors and the Bozeman Fire Department.
• Conduct fire code reviews for capital projects and major renovations.
• Investigate post-fire incidents in partnership with University Police and the Bozeman Fire Department.
• Provide an annual report on Fire & Life Safety activities each fiscal year.
• Maintain accurate fire system drawings in collaboration with Campus Planning, Design & Construction staff.
• Develop, review, and coordinate building evacuation plans with Building Supervisors.
• Provide expertise for special events involving pyrotechnics or requiring fire evacuation planning.
• Manage the fire extinguisher program and provide related training.
• Conduct education and outreach on fire safety topics.
• Act as a liaison between the University and City Fire Department and Building Code officials.
• Assist in planning and coordinating fire drills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or Associate’s Degree in Fire Science, Fire Administration, or related field, plus two years of full-time work in fire safety and emergency services.
• Current certification in fire inspection through the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) or International Codes Council (ICC), or equivalent combination of education, experience, and training.
• Five or more years working in fire and life safety. If lacking inspector credentials, must obtain within the probationary period.
• Working knowledge of ICC fire codes, NFPA codes, and fire protection systems.
• Ability to test municipal fire systems, perform fire drills, and conduct fire code inspections.
• Proficiency in reading architectural plans and providing feedback on fire safety compliance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of MSU campus or similar environments, including occupancy types, laboratory operations, and facilities.
• Experience working with city and state fire department staff, leadership, and fire marshals.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Skills

• Independent decision-making and high-level judgment.
• Effective relationship-building with internal and external stakeholders.
• Time management and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in using computers, email, web browsers, MS Office, and iAuditor.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Additional Requirements

• Valid Montana Driver’s License or eligibility to obtain one, with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and use ladders for inspections.
• May require non-routine hours for events and emergencies.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Benefits

Eligible for benefits.

Pay

$82,000 annually, commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications.

Schedule

Full-time (1.0 FTE), fiscal year contract.