Fire Alarm Technician (Electronic Equipment Technician I)

Job Announcement

This is a reannouncement. Applicants who wish to revise their original application are encouraged to reapply with a revised application. Otherwise, all applicants who previously applied this role do not need to reapply to be considered. Under the general direction and supervision of a Chief Building Engineer and/or a Facilities Manager, this position performs tasks related to testing, troubleshooting, maintaining and repairing of critical commercial building fire detection and fire suppression systems and system components. Performs preventative maintenance of life safety systems and system components. Maintains a current knowledge of local, state and national codes. Note: This position is designated as essential personnel. A flexible working schedule and site rotation may be required along with on-call, callback and overtime.

Illustrative Duties

• Inspects and tests fire alarm and fire suppression systems;
• Diagnoses and repairs malfunctioning devices and equipment in fire alarm and fire suppression systems;
• Inspects, tests and repairs generator units, automatic transfer switches, and associated equipment;
• Performs scheduled preventive maintenance on alarm or generator systems;
• Maintains knowledge of pertinent local, state, and federal fire and electrical building codes and insurance requirements;
• Assists in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of closed-circuit video equipment;
• Assists in the installation, service, and repair of audio systems, such as public address systems and voice recorders;
• Assists in the installation of two-way radios in County-owned vehicles;
• Operates and maintains a County vehicle used in the performance of duties;
• Maintains an inventory of parts, supplies and materials, and requisitions replacements as needed;
• Records and documents all inspections, tests, and work performed;
• Responds to emergency service calls, both during and after regular working hours.

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the electronic and electromechanical principles and processes relevant to the work assigned;
• Ability to operate the required power and hand tools and test equipment;
• Ability to diagnose problems in electronic equipment and make repairs;
• Ability to read and work from equipment manuals, schematics, and drawings;
• Ability to participate in the training of new technicians;
• Ability to keep accurate records and to generate accurate reports;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers and customers.

Employment Standards

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the following: High school graduation or a GED issued by a state department of education; plus, completion of an apprentice-level vocational training program in electronics; and one year of experience in the maintenance and repair of the electronic and electromechanical equipment specific to the position. CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED: Valid driver's license National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Alarm ITM Specialist (CFAITMS) within twelve (12) months of date of appointment NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check, driving record check, and pre-employment medical evaluation to the satisfaction of the employer. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) Level I Certification in Fire Alarm Systems, NFPA Certified Fire Alarm ITM Specialist (CFAITMS) or NFPA Certified Sprinkler ITM Specialist (CISTMS) certifications. 1–2 years of experience inspecting, testing, or maintaining fire alarm and/or fire suppression systems. Experience and working knowledge of applicable codes and standards, such as NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code) and basic life safety requirements. Experience with low-voltage systems, including fire alarm panels, initiating devices, notification appliances, and related field equipment. Experience and ability to read and interpret technical documentation, including wiring diagrams, blueprints, equipment manuals, and inspection reports. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to lift up to 60 lbs. for short periods of time. Carry up to 40 lbs. Frequently work near moving parts. Moving about on hands and knees or hands and feet to enter tight spaces. Must be able to climb and descend ladders up to 20 feet and work in physically fatiguing positions for long periods of time. Ability to ascend and descend stairs, ramps, and the like for single and multistory (up to 12 stories) buildings in the Department’s portfolio. Must be able to wear and use respirator and OSHA required PPE. Pushing/pulling involving use of hands/arms, feet/legs, and/or feet only done with one side of the body or both sides. Seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with hand(s). Reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Stand; walk; climb, balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl. Work in various weather conditions (heat, rain, snow, high humidity, etc.). All duties performed with or without reasonable accommodations. SELECTION PROCEDURE: Panel interview and may include exercise.

Fairfax County is home to a highly diverse population, with a significant number of residents speaking languages other than English at home (including Spanish, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indo-European, and many others.) We encourage candidates who are bilingual in English and another language to apply for this opportunity.

Fairfax County Government prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce. Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. TTY View phone number on click.appcast.io. View email address on click.appcast.io EEO/AA/TTY.