People Strategy, Equity, and Culture

Fire/Life Safety Specialist

  • Title: Fire/Life Safety Specialist
  • Class: Classified
  • Exempt Status: Non-exempt
  • Grade: 23

Job Summary

Under the direction of a manager or director, ensures the design, construction, repair and maintenance of all fire, intrusion and life safety systems (systems) meet college expectations. Incumbent receives and evaluates work orders and requests, investigates requests and troubleshoots problems where appropriate, establishes priorities and coordinates with contractors, when required, to make necessary repairs. Incumbent provides subject matter expertise related to systems. Incumbent manages the work of outside contractors to make sure all work meets college requirements and applicable codes. Incumbent reviews and approves contractor invoices. May assist other departments with wiring or installations within license authority.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Designs, installs and/or oversees the work of contractors who install wiring in college-wide new construction and remodel projects relating to systems. Reviews plans for all fire, intrusion and life safety alarm work related to new construction to be certain work meets College requirements.
  2. Coordinates low voltage electrical work of contractors related to repair, renovation and maintenance activities of systems.
  3. Performs or oversees contractors who perform inspections, testing, maintenance and repair of district-wide fire suppression systems (wet/dry sprinkler systems) and gaseous systems in the data center.
  4. Oversees the work of maintenance contractors ensuring all systems are properly maintained, all tests conducted at the appropriate times and services are available during all operational periods. Reviews costs, invoices and makes approval recommendations and adjustments as needed.  This includes items such as fire hydrants, fire doors, fire dampers, fire extinguishers, heat and smoke detectors and ANSUL systems used in kitchens.
  5. Obtains quotes for repair and/or installation of systems district wide. Defines options and estimates costs, sets priorities and schedules for construction activities.
  6. Functions as the main point of contact for Emergency Power Supply systems.  Coordinates testing, maintenance and repairs, preventive maintenance, inspections, etc. ensuring operational integrity of generators, ATSs and UPSs.
  7. Researches methods, systems or materials for purchase of systems. Keeps equipment updated and operational, meeting required local, state, federal and ADA requirements.
  8. Instructs employees in the use of systems. Establishes and coordinates alarm codes and keeps a record of those having access to such codes.
  9. Coordinates required fire alarm and other functional tests and assists with practice drill evacuations. Reviews fire and life safety systems with Fire Marshall’s office and local inspectors to ensure legal and safe systems.
  10. Maintains inventory of essential parts and equipment to ensure repairs and installation in a timely manner.
  11. Conducts independent fire inspections to ensure fire and life safety code compliance.
  12. Maintains an up-to-date working library of National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) codes.
  13. Responds to college emergencies and closures including adverse weather to secure buildings, furnishings and fixtures to prevent damage or operational problems.
  14. Maintains appropriate records as required.
  15. Responds to phone, email, voice mail, verbal and written work orders.
  16. Knows and understands all safety procedures of the college. Observes the work of contractors and brings safety concerns to their attention as needed. Reports all unsafe acts and conditions which remain uncorrected to supervisor. Allows no work to be performed when conditions are considered unsafe.
  17. Operates an assigned college vehicle.
  18. Attends regular staff meetings of the Facilities Management Services maintenance staff and participates in problem solving and discussions of system and project related issues.
  19. Incumbent develops budgets for project work and provides project coordination ensuring budgets are met.
  20. Remains current on new technology, methodology and equipment.
  21. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Work pressure, disturbances of work flow and/or irregularities in work schedule are expected and occur on an intermittent basis. Work is performed primarily in the field at the site of the work. Working conditions may be somewhat disagreeable requiring occasional exposure to safety hazards and noise when reviewing the work of contractors. Regular travel between campus locations in assigned college vehicle. While primary duty hours are day shift, must be flexible to work in the event of emergencies or other operational needs. Must have an acceptable driving record and valid driver’s license for operation of a motor vehicle in Oregon and Washington.  Extended standing and moderate to heavy lifting is occasionally required. Requires a good deal of walking and some climbing (ladders, etc.) to get to the site of the work on a daily basis.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent; State of Oregon Limited Energy Electrical License, NICET II (Fire Alarms) or equivalent, Silent Knight Intelliknight certification; and two years of experience with Fire and Life Safety code compliance, service and maintenance across a broad spectrum of fire and life safety systems. One year of experience inspecting Fire and Life Safety Systems.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:
  • Basic project management best practices;
  • Applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations;
  • Departmental processes and policies.
Skills in:
  • Operating a computer and various software packages;
  • Offering viable solutions for problem solving.
Ability to:
  • Work independently and prioritize multiple tasks and adapt to needed changes;
  • Comprehend technical language;
  • Effectively communicate both in writing and verbally;
  • Effectively prioritize work requests;
  • Exercise considerable judgment and initiative;
  • Manage time effectively;
  • Interact positively with staff and the public in order to enhance effectiveness and to promote quality service.

Reviewed: 12/18

  • New: 09/2014