Inspector Trainee

About the role

Responsible for gaining a working knowledge of and performing fire protection inspections and 24‑hour service under direct supervision of an Inspection/Service Technician.

Responsibilities

• Assist Inspectors while they inspect, test, and maintain fire protection systems in accordance with NFPA codes
• Develop a working knowledge of life safety and NFPA codes and standards
• Develop knowledge of fire sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, fire suppression systems and their devices, appurtenances, critical components and operations
• Perform testing and maintenance under direct supervision of an Inspection/Service Technician
• Complete on‑the‑job training documentation each week
• Differentiate between inspection deficiencies and service required to correct found deficiencies
• Understand and follow SFS’s Safety program, SDS book, Hazardous Communication program, policies and procedures
• Participate in weekly Toolbox talks; know where all related safety documentation is located on each project
• Attend Inspector training sessions at SFS (scheduled per region, per quarter for a two‑year period) to stay current on technology, installation, testing and reporting approaches
• Begin NICET exam cycle application within the 3rd evolution of training, NICET exam preparation within the 4th evolution, and begin testing for NICET during session 5 or within approximately 1 year of hire/enrollment
• Pass NICET Level II certification in Inspection, Testing & Maintenance of Water‑Based Fire Protection Systems prior to achieving “Inspector” status
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Education, Training & Certifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required

Experience, Knowledge & Skills

• 0–2 years’ experience inspecting fire protection systems preferred
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Basic math skills, mechanical aptitude, problem‑solving, customer service, decision‑making, multitasking, ability to meet project schedules, planning and organizing, troubleshooting, and ability to train others

Communication Skills

• Effectively read, write and communicate in English with employees and customers

Systems & Software Skills

• Ability to operate a computer and tablet required
• Experience with Salesforce and ERP systems preferred

Other Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record required
• Must comply with SFS’s Drug and Alcohol policy and background screening requirements (may include customer‑specific requirements per contractual agreement)

Physical Requirements

• Frequently required to bend, ascend/descend step stools, ladders and stairs, kneel, lift up to 50 lbs, reach above and below shoulders, stand and walk for extended periods
• Required to see in color, close and far distances, peripheral, depth, and adjust focus
• Occasionally required to balance, crouch, drive, kneel, lift over 50 lbs, sit, stoop, twist, and work at heights

Work Environment

• Frequent local travel; occasional regional and non‑regional travel
• Frequently work inside and outside in hot/cold temperatures, exposed to loud noises, cramped quarters, dust, fumes, odors, standing on hard surfaces, and electrical hazards
• Occasionally exposed to chemicals, moving machinery, uneven and slippery surfaces
• Must consistently wear all appropriate personal protective equipment as required by company safety policies

About Us

Summit Fire & Security, a subsidiary of SFP Holding, Inc. (Summit Companies), is a full‑service provider for fire detection, suppression, and security with capabilities spanning design, installation, testing, inspections, and maintenance. We serve customers across many verticals on a local, regional, and national scale, with over 70 locations in more than 20 states. Our leadership chairs NFPA code compliance committees, serves on regional safety boards, and supports technical education in local schools. We host recognized apprenticeships and on‑the‑job training programs, encourage NICET and other career‑advancing certifications, and offer reimbursement for certain development programs plus potential bonuses for specific certifications.

Benefits

• Paid vacation and holidays
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Flexible spending accounts
• Long‑term disability – employer paid
• Short‑term disability – employer paid
• Additional voluntary ancillary benefits (accident and hospital indemnity)
• Life insurance for team members and dependents
• Employee assistance program
• Employee referral program

Core Values

• Passionate about life safety
• Integrity – do the right thing
• Partnership with our customers and community
• Operational Excellence – do things right