Shop Foreman

Job Title: Shop Foreman

Location: Akron, OH

Silco Fire & Security isn't just a company, it's a mission. Every day, our team plays a vital role in protecting lives and property for over 45,000 businesses across Ohio, Kentucky and surrounding states. We design, install, maintain and monitor fire protection and security systems that keep people safe and businesses compliant.

As the market leader in the Midwest, Silco is a growing, family-owned company with over 500 employees working from our headquarters in Cincinnati and branches in Dayton, Columbus, Toledo, Akron, Cleveland and Louisville. Recognized as a Top Workplace and named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies, we have a long-standing track record of success and ambitious goals for the future.


Our impact extends beyond fire alarms and sprinklers; we provide peace of mind to the communities we serve. At Silco, you're not just doing a job, you're making a difference.


Position Overview:

Silco Fire & Security is seeking an experienced Shop Foreman responsible for overseeing portable fire extinguisher shop operations and ensuring full compliance with NFPA 10, Ohio Fire Code, Ohio State Fire Marshal licensing, and U.S. DOT cylinder requalification requirements. This role provides operational leadership, regulatory oversight, and technical direction for all portable fire protection equipment activities, including oversight of shop equipment and machinery used in extinguisher servicing.

Responsibilities:

• Manage and monitor productivity across all portable fire extinguisher shop operations to ensure efficient, compliant workflow.
• Serve as the primary Point of Contact (POC) for U.S. DOT (49 CFR) cylinder inspection, requalification, and hydrostatic testing coordination.
• Ensure all portable fire extinguishers are inspected, maintained, tested, recharged, and documented in strict accordance with NFPA 10, including:
  • Monthly visual inspections
  • Annual maintenance
  • 6-year internal examinations
  • 12-year hydrostatic testing (as applicable by extinguisher type)
• Maintain accurate service records, inspection tags, maintenance logs, and requalification documentation as required by NFPA 10 and the Ohio State Fire Marshal.
• Oversee handling, inspection, servicing, and storage of portable fire extinguishers and related equipment.
• Coordinate portable extinguisher work associated with commercial kitchen suppression systems, recognizing applicable standards such as NFPA 96 and UL 300 (as applicable).
• Perform and oversee minor maintenance and routine upkeep of shop machinery and equipment used in extinguisher servicing, including recharge units, scales, hydrostatic test equipment, air compressors, and related tools.
• DOT POC for cylinder requalification and hydrostatic testing in accordance with 49 CFR.
• Schedule, coordinate, and document preventive maintenance and repair services with outside vendors for shop machinery and equipment to ensure operational readiness and compliance.
• Supervise, train, and provide leadership to direct reports, ensuring technicians meet qualification and competency expectations under NFPA 10.
• Assist and support other departments as needed to maintain smooth operations and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications:

• Valid Ohio Portable Fire Extinguisher License issued by the Ohio State Fire Marshal required with a demonstrated working knowledge of NFPA 10 - Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers.
• Experience performing minor mechanical maintenance and coordinating equipment service with external vendors.
• Strong understanding of inspection, maintenance, testing, recharging, tagging, and documentation requirements.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to safely service and handle pressurized cylinders.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid Driver's License required.
• Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening and background check.
• Forklift certification preferred.
• Familiarity with related standards such as NFPA 96 (commercial cooking fire suppression systems) preferred.
• Experience managing shop equipment maintenance programs or preventive maintenance schedules preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to climb ladders, use lifts, and work at various heights.
• Able to lift, carry, and move up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and crouching throughout the workday.
• Must have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for handling small components and tools.
• Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, and testing equipment.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces or outdoor environments as needed.
• Requires occasional pushing, pulling, and reaching overhead.
• Must be able to wear and properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Capable of driving company vehicles and transporting equipment or materials when needed.
• Ability to remain alert and focused while performing detailed or repetitive tasks.

Benefits:

In addition to a competitive compensation package, Silco offers a wide range of benefits such as medical, dental, vision, Aflac and a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Silco offers company paid short-term disability and life insurance, as well as company paid training. The Company also boasts a 401(k) program with company matching and tuition reimbursement. Silco provides paid holidays and generous paid time off.


Employment at Silco is contingent upon completing and passing a background check and drug screen. Silco is an Equal Opportunity Employer.