Fire Code Inspector I (DFM)

Fire Code Inspector I
The Fire Code Inspector I is an entry-level position in the Division of the Fire Marshal.  This position is responsible for completing inspections throughout the city or in an assigned geographical location. These inspections include but are not limited to citizen complaints and referrals for fire code violations, schools, hazardous materials, marijuana related businesses and operations, high-pile combustible storage, and operational and occupancy permits.  





Essential Job Functions - the basic job duties an employee must be able to perform:

• Inspect buildings, facilities, and structures to ensure compliance with applicable fire and safety codes
• Consult with business owners, architects, engineers, and hazardous materials specialists regarding the safe use, handling, transport, and storage of hazardous materials and flammable/combustible liquids
• Ensure that businesses are storing and using hazardous materials in accordance with pertinent codes and laws 
• Make educational presentations on fire prevention topics to City staff and the public
• Enforce fire prevention standards and pertinent national, state, and local codes, laws, and ordinances
• Examine the interiors and exteriors of buildings to determine hazardous conditions or violations of fire codes 
• Interpret plans and construction drawings to ensure code compliance and proper installation of fire protection and life safety systems
• Consult with business owners, contractors, consultants, and engineers concerning unsafe conditions; recommend corrective actions; and verify compliance
• Maintain and update a variety of files and records related to your inspection activities, phone calls, and meetings 
• Prepare reports and correspondence
• Stay current on technology related to fire protection systems and software

We are looking for candidates who demonstrate:

Knowledge of:

• Current fire codes, building codes, and associated standards
• Current fixed fire protection/detection systems technology
• Proper handling, usage, and storage of hazardous materials
• Methods and techniques of data collection, report preparation, filing, and record keeping 
• Principles and practices of building construction techniques
• Safe work practices and procedures
• Modern office technology

Ability to:

• Learn, apply, interpret, and enforce all pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations, including the locally adopted Fire Code, Building Code, Mechanical Code, and related hazardous materials legislation
• Learn to safely operate specialized inspection equipment, including hydrant and light testing equipment, decibel measuring equipment, hazardous materials analysis equipment, vapor analysis equipment, and air velocity meters 
• Use analytical judgment and decision making skills
• Read and comprehend construction plans, details, and drawings
• Write inspection reports, business letters, and summaries
• Advise others outside direct reporting responsibilities
• Seek and understand different points of view
• Communicate clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships

• A high school diploma or GED 
• One (1) year of full-time experience in a related field
• Possess and maintain a valid, non-probationary driver's license not subject to restriction related to alcohol and/or drug violations or pending charges
• Possess, or obtain within 12 months of hire the following certifications: 
  • ICC (International Code Council) Fire Inspector I 
  • State of Colorado Fire Inspector I
  • ICS (Incident Command Systems) 100, 200, and 700

One year of relevant work experience may be substituted for one year of required education (OR) one year of relevant academic coursework beyond the minimum requirement may be substituted for one year of required professional experience.

The background check for this position includes a fingerprint and background check through the Colorado Springs Police Department.

• Experience as a sworn Firefighter
• Experience as a Fire Code Inspector I

Physical Demands: In this position, you must be able to walk, crawl, kneel, squat, push, pull, climb ladders and stairs to conduct inspections. It requires the ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods and lift and carry 50 pounds occasionally, 25 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds constantly.

This work, which can be very strenuous, can be performed under difficult conditions.

Environmental Conditions 
 Primary Work Environment - Office environment with travel from site to site
 Extreme Temperature - Occasionally
 Wetness and Humidity - Frequently
 Respiratory Hazards - Frequently (dust, smoke, fumes, and gases)
 Noise and Vibrations - Frequently
 Physical Hazards - Frequently (hazardous materials)
 Mechanical and/or Electrical Hazards - Continuously
 Exposure to Communicable Diseases - Rarely

The background check for this position includes a fingerprint and background check through the Colorado Springs Police Department.