University Fire Inspector

About the Job

Description of Position

This position has responsibility for performing complex inspections and evaluations of building sprinkler, fire alarm and emergency communications systems for the University throughout the state. Additional tasks involve the regular and periodic performance of fire inspections of existing University buildings as well as evaluation of proposed improvements related to the Fire Code. All of the related tasks involve interpretation and enforcement of both the State Building Code and State Fire Code as well as a firm understanding of local and national trends in industry.

Responsibilities / Essential Functions

Inspection of all permitted fire maintenance, repair, renovation, remodel and construction work on all University of Minnesota properties system-wide 65%

• Conduct on-site construction inspections, record results in permit software system.
• Perform field inspections for permitted projects located in the Twin Cities and throughout the state of Minnesota as needed.
• Document and initiate appropriate corrective action to enforce code compliance.
• Maintain daily inspection log and related records in an up-to-date and orderly fashion to expedite record keeping procedures
• Conducts inspections on all permitted construction work involving fire and related systems to assure work is performed consistent with applicable codes and standards
• Performs fire inspections to verify compliance between plans and actual construction

Review fire plans and scopes of work prior to fire permit issuance to verify compliance with all fire codes and standards 20%

• Examine design documents of fire systems at different phases of design: schematic, design development and construction documents.
• Examine plans and specifications submitted for permit to identify life safety hazards, minimum construction standard inadequacies and other related code inadequacies.
• Coordinate plan reviews with building inspectors; combining review comments in written correspondence to designers and contractors
• Review deferred submittal(s) and changes made to the permit documents throughout the construction process to ensure code compliance is being maintained.
• Review plans for conformity with requirements and issue fire permits; calculate fees to be assessed for projects and submits documentation for collection
• Identify the appropriate application of codes for commercial, industrial, and mixed occupancies for existing, historical and new structures (educational & large assembly facilities, research laboratories, hospitals, hazardous buildings, underground buildings, high-rise buildings, and stadiums)
• Assess risks of fire systems based occupant classification and overall safety of University students, facility, staff and visitors

Consult, advise, discuss, and meet with designers, engineers, project managers, facilities managers and stakeholders regarding fire code requirements 15%

• Meet and correspond throughout the phases of design with project managers, architects, engineers, faculty/staff, end users and contractors with respect to fire materials, installation requirements, fire standards, and building design in order to verify compliance with State of Minnesota Fire Code.
• Identify the appropriate application of codes for commercial, industrial, and mixed occupancies for existing, historical and new structures (educational & large assembly facilities, research laboratories, hospitals, hazardous buildings, underground buildings, high-rise buildings, and stadiums).
• Discuss or explain code intent for fire systems; providing awareness of code impacts to a project, interpretation of both prescriptive and performance code to prospective designs.
• Assess risks of fire systems based occupant classification and overall safety of University students, facility, staff and visitors.
• Consult with all stakeholders on building projects to facilitate flow of information with other internal and external regulatory agencies

Problem Solving and Independence of Action

Problems encountered are highly varied and unpredictable, complex and often non-recurring, requiring new and creative approaches; precedents may exist and supervisor provides broad guidance and overall direction.

Physical/Environmental Demands

Work is generally performed in the field and will include site visits to outdoor areas, roofs, mechanical rooms, controlled access areas, tunnels and confined spaces. Physical ability to climb ladders, enter tunnels and access all construction sites is required. This position may involve field inspections which may require a variety of physical activities, safe vehicle operation, tools, and equipment. May work near or be exposed to a variety of hazardous conditions or equipment. May occasionally work in closed or small areas to conduct inspection, be exposed to weather conditions, animals, sewage, fires, dust, gas, fumes, noise, asbestos, mold or other environmental conditions. Agility, strength, balance and familiarity with many and varied construction worksite conditions, tools and machinery is required.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

BA/BS plus at least five years of experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least nine years.

Seven years experience in fire code enforcement, fire inspection, fire investigation, or fire protection, or an equivalent combination of experience and education. Experience in the review and inspection of commercial fire alarm and fire protection systems. Experience in commercial/institutional fire code enforcement and inspection. Proficiency with permitting software.

Preferred Qualifications

An associates or bachelor’s degree in fire protection engineering, fire science, or related field.
ICC or NFPA fire inspector certification or equivalent. NFPA Certified Fire Plan Examiner (CFPE).

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $48.08- $56.25; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type : Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.