Fire Inspector/ Investigator

Primary Duties and Responsibilities: Prepares for and conducts annual inspections of existing commercial and multi-family residential properties for code violations and hazardous materials violations; prepares for and conducts inspections of new construction and renovations of commercial and residential properties for compliance with IFC, IBC, NFPA, State, Federal, and City ordinance; communicates findings with building occupants, and or responsible party, determines a plan of corrective action, and conducts follow-up inspections; conducts research and conduct code analysis to identify applicable codes or standards. Conducts business license and operational permit inspections and re-inspections. Issues operational permits and licenses Inspects and tests fire and life safety protection systems, including fire alarms, fire sprinklers, hood suppression systems, and underground fire lines. Maintains inspection records, project documentation, and department files. Interprets and explains codes, regulations, permit and code enforcement rules, and related policies and procedures to business and property owners, contractors, and the public. Investigates complaints related to fire and life safety hazards; completes all reports about complaints and findings; communicates findings with business owners, agents, occupants, or responsible parties. Determines a corrective action plan and conducts follow-up inspections; conducts research to determine the history of similar violations by the occupant; provides fire inspection reports and notice of orders, may be required to issue citations, and provides court testimony as necessary. Refers significant problems and disputes in compliance issues to the Fire Marshal. Follows up with facilities placed on Fire Watch and informs fire suppression personnel and dispatch when a system is out of service and repair. Works with other agencies to coordinate inspections, enforcement activities, and investigations. Independently conduct fire investigations; collects, preserves, logs, and secures evidence; documents all handling of evidence and property to preserve the chain of custody; documents crime scenes using technical equipment, techniques, and procedures; maintains activity logs and generates reports as needed. Gathers evidence and verifies information related to investigating and resolving criminal incidents; notifies Fire Marshals and criminal justice agencies on suspicious fires, arson fires, and significant investigative developments. Develops case files and reports and prepares technical and statistical reports. Maintains the City's integrity, professionalism, values, and goals by ensuring that rules and regulations are followed, and that accountability and public trust are preserved. Conducts fire prevention and safety presentations for schools and community groups. Responds outside of typically scheduled work hours in response to special events, natural disasters, emergencies, or critical incidents as determined by the city or the Fire Marshal. Maintains a state of readiness when on-call as a fire investigator. May train and work alongside Manvel Volunteer Fire Department & Manvel Police Department staff. Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: High School diploma or GED equivalent; and at least two years' experience in a Department of Fire Prevention or five years of experience in fire inspections and investigations with basic knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and building construction and fire investigation documentation, evidence collection, and report writing. Required Licenses or Certifications:

• Must possess a valid Texas Driver License.
• Certifications as a Basic Fire Investigator and Basic Fire Inspector from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP).NIMS 100, 200, 700, 800. (Obtain 300 & 400 within 12 months of employment)
• Required Knowledge of:
• State and Federal laws, regulations, and codes, including laws governing fire& life safety and building safety
• Methods and techniques for inspecting a variety of buildings and facilities.
• Commercial fire sprinkler and alarm detection and protection systems.
• Principles and practices of building construction.
• Principles and practices of modern fire suppression and prevention.
• Applicable NFPA Standards and familiarity with the International Fire and Building Code.
• Required Skill in:
• Interpreting laws and regulations, making decisions, maintaining composure, and working effectively under stressful conditions and emergencies.
• Inspecting commercial facilities for fire and safety code hazards and construction standards.
• Recognizing buildings' construction, contents, and occupancy to evaluate safety hazards.
• Conducting public presentations.
• Operating and maintaining computer and communications equipment.
• Communicating clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.