Fire Alarm Technician

Position Overview

A Fire Alarm Technician is responsible for installing, inspecting, testing, maintaining, and repairing fire alarm systems and life safety equipment to ensure compliance with fire codes and protect lives and property. This role requires technical expertise and strict adherence to safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Installation & Programming

• Install fire alarm control panels, detectors, pull stations, notification devices, and ancillary equipment
• Run and terminate fire alarm wiring in accordance with NFPA 72 and local codes
• Program fire alarm systems including addressable devices, zones, and notification circuits
• Install and integrate voice evacuation systems, mass notification systems, and emergency communication equipment
• Mount devices at proper heights and locations per code requirements

Inspection & Testing

• Perform routine inspections and testing per NFPA 72 standards (annual, semi-annual, quarterly)
• Conduct acceptance testing on new installations
• Test smoke detectors, heat detectors, pull stations, horns, strobes, and control panels
• Verify system functionality including alarm transmission to monitoring stations
• Document all test results and deficiencies

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Diagnose and repair system faults, ground faults, and trouble conditions
• Replace defective devices and components
• Clean and maintain smoke detectors using proper sensitivity testing equipment
• Respond to emergency service calls for system failures
• Perform battery replacements and power supply maintenance

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure all work complies with NFPA 72, NEC, and local fire codes
• Complete detailed inspection and testing reports
• Maintain accurate service records and as-built drawings
• Coordinate inspections with fire marshals and AHJs (Authority Having Jurisdiction)
• Issue certificates of completion and compliance documentation

Customer Service

• Train building owners and staff on system operation
• Explain code requirements and system deficiencies to customers
• Provide recommendations for system upgrades or expansions
• Maintain professional relationships with clients

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2-5 years of experience with fire alarm systems
• Knowledge of NFPA 72, NFPA 70 (NEC), and local fire codes
• Experience with major fire alarm manufacturers (Simplex, Notifier, Honeywell, Edwards, Fire-Lite, Silent Knight)
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record

Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, riser diagrams, and shop drawings
• Understanding of addressable and conventional fire alarm systems
• Proficiency with multimeters, meggers, and fire alarm testing equipment
• Basic computer skills for programming and report generation
• Knowledge of supervising station monitoring and communication methods

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50-75 lbs
• Comfortable working on ladders up to 12 feet
• Ability to work in attics, crawl spaces, and mechanical rooms
• Capable of standing, kneeling, bending for extended periods
• Manual dexterity for terminating wires and small components

Work Environment

• Travel to multiple job sites daily (commercial, industrial, healthcare, educational facilities)
• Work in occupied buildings with minimal disruption
• Indoor and outdoor work in various weather conditions
• Standard business hours, sometimes overnight

Safety Requirements

• Follow all OSHA safety regulations
• Use proper PPE (personal protective equipment)
• Adhere to confined space and fall protection protocols
• Maintain awareness of life safety implications of all work performed

Job Type: Full-time

Expected hours: 30 – 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance

Work Location: In person