Fire Alarm Technician at South Western Communications, Inc. in Lenexa, Kansas

Fire Alarm Technician

South Western Communications, SWC, is one trusted source for communication, physical security and life safety solutions to meet the needs of Healthcare, Education, Detention and Commercial customers. We utilize a consultative approach to conduct an in-depth needs analysis, enabling our customers to fulfill their mission critical processes. We continuously research and select only the best-in class product collection. We utilize these products to create an integrated solution with your goals and needs in mind, ensuring satisfaction and flawless integration. At SWC, we strive to exceed your expectations and invest the time and resources into every job because we care about our customers.

Primary Role: Responsible for the installation, troubleshooting, inspection and maintenance of electrical fire alarm systems. The Systems Technician is responsible for installing and servicing the systems in the most efficient and effective manner to ensure minimum downtime and maximum performance. The technician is responsible for communicating system performance to the customer.

Responsibilities:

• Read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, submittals, specifications and schematics.
• Supervise and inspect the installation of equipment to meet customer specifications.
• Performs all tasks required to completely install, fire alarm systems to include, engineering - technical review, cable installation, device mounting, wiring devices and control panels and programming/testing equipment.
• Performs a variety of tasks involved in installation using hand and power tools.
• Tasks include continual learning of new products, upgrades, and software programs related to fire and security systems.
• Evaluate and diagnose equipment requiring service and identify and troubleshoot problems.
• Provide specific solutions and recommendations to customers on the most efficient and cost-efficient methods to return equipment to working order.
• Assists with preventive maintenance of customer equipment
• Responsible for accurate tracking on time sheets, service/installation tickets and inventory items
• Full compliance with company's and customer's safety program
• Other duties as required or assigned by company management

Accountability: The Technician will be accountable to the Project Manager. Secondary accountability will be to the other management team members, employees and customers of the company.

Qualifications:

• At least five (5) years' experience in testing, maintenance, and service of fire alarm systems. Experience with access control systems and CCTV a plus.
• Industry experience as apprentice electrician or low voltage technician as a minimum. Has performed installations of fire alarm, CCTV components, and access control systems. Possesses current working knowledge of basic software applications, communication technologies, and some lock hardware applications. We should have some leadership experience needed to instruct installation assistants to perform basic tasks proficiently. Has experience in dealing with customer service.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Education Requirements:

• Minimum: High school graduate. NICET certification. Must be able to read and write at Basic English proficiency. Must be able to compute basic math functions without difficulty. Can read CAD generated prints and building blueprints and riser diagrams. Has solid grasp of basic electronics/electrical theory - formal instruction is preferred. Is proficient with PC and has proven aptitude in simple engineering and construction.
• Preferred Factory training
• Basic computer skills and knowledge of applicable codes (NICET, NFPA, etc.)

Travel: Some out-of-town travel may be required.

Additional Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be responsible, self-motivated, self-starter, personable and well-organized.
• Superior customer service skills to deal with both internal and external customers.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal skills; ability to work with diverse groups.
• Proficiency in the use of personal computers including such programs as MS Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Ability to demonstrate planning, organizing and implementing skills which allow the successful completion of a project by a specific due date.
• Must be able to effectively handle stressful situations.
• Must be able to read and effectively interpret general business documentation.
• Valid and current driver's license.

Physical, Mental and Environmental Requirements:

• Employees are required to stand, walk, climb, sit and use their hands and fingers.
• Must be able to ascend, descend, and work atop ladders of varying heights, and exceeding 30 feet.
• Some light lifting of objects up to 50 lbs is required.
• Reaching, grasping and carrying activities are also required.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• Although most work is performed inside, occasional outside activities are subject to seasonal temperature fluctuations.
• Must be able to safely operate various Mobile Work Platforms/Articulating Man Lifts after receiving applicable training/certification.
• Must be able to observe and detect signs of dangerous obstacles at 30 yards and to verify written information at a close range.