Lead Inspection Technician

About the role

Piper Fire Protection is seeking an experienced Lead Inspection Technician to serve as the senior inspection authority overseeing inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) of fire sprinkler and fire alarm systems throughout the Clearwater and surrounding Florida markets. This role is responsible for inspection quality, code compliance, deficiency reduction, customer confidence, AHJ relationships, and continuous improvement across inspection operations, while driving operational KPIs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate daily field activities for fire sprinkler and fire alarm inspections and testing across assigned service areas
• Perform inspection, testing, and maintenance on wet, dry, pre-action, and deluge fire sprinkler systems
• Conduct inspection and testing of low-voltage fire alarm systems in accordance with NFPA 72, Chapter 14
• Conduct field QA audits of inspection teams to ensure quality and code compliance consistency
• Reduce false deficiencies and missed deficiencies through coaching, audits, and quality oversight
• Identify system deficiencies and provide clear recommendations for corrective actions
• Complete and submit accurate inspection reports, deficiency reports, and compliance documentation
• Serve as the primary on-site contact for customers, building owners, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs)
• Mentor junior inspectors and trainees; conduct ride-alongs and field coaching sessions
• Assist with onboarding and inspector development plans
• Troubleshoot system issues and support repair recommendations and follow-up work
• Support backflow testing and repair activities as needed
• Ensure all work is performed safely and in compliance with company and OSHA standards
• Maintain company vehicle, tools, and equipment in good working condition
• Participate in on-call rotation and support emergency service needs as required

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in fire sprinkler and/or fire alarm inspection, testing, and service
• Demonstrated experience independently inspecting all major system types (wet, dry, pre-action, deluge) and low-voltage fire alarm systems
• Strong working knowledge of NFPA 25 and NFPA 72 (particularly Chapter 14), and applicable fire protection standards and codes
• Prior experience formally mentoring, training, or onboarding inspectors/technicians
• Experience resolving escalated or contested inspection issues and communicating findings directly to AHJs and customers
• NICET certification in Water-Based Systems and/or Fire Alarm Systems or willingness to obtain within an agreed-upon timeframe
• Experience working with commercial and/or industrial fire sprinkler and fire alarm systems
• Knowledge of or experience with backflow testing and repairs is a plus
• Strong troubleshooting, organizational, and documentation skills
• Excellent communication and customer service abilities
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including lifting, climbing, and working at heights and in varying weather conditions
• Ability to meet company driving eligibility requirements, including holding a valid driver's license and maintaining an acceptable motor vehicle record

Skills

• Strong troubleshooting, organizational, and documentation skills
• Excellent communication and customer service abilities
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including lifting, climbing, and working at heights and in varying weather conditions
• Ability to meet company driving eligibility requirements, including holding a valid driver's license and maintaining an acceptable motor vehicle record

Benefits

This role may require extended periods of sitting or standing, movement around the office or job site, and operation of standard equipment. Physical activities can include reaching, bending, kneeling, climbing, and lifting up to 75 lbs. Field positions may involve heavy lifting, working in varying climates (including outdoor conditions), construction or low-voltage environments, and exposure to dust, noise, or confined spaces. Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required. Some roles may require travel.

Pay

Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Schedule

The schedule for this position is typically full-time, with some flexibility as needed.

Company Information

Fortis Fire & Safety is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their jobs. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of job-related pre-employment screenings, which may include a background check and/or drug testing, in accordance with applicable laws. Applicant Notices Fortis Fire & Safety provides required federal, state, and local labor law notices to all applicants. Applicants may review the following notices at any time: Federal Notices, Illinois Notices, North Carolina Notices, and California Notices.