An employee in this class is responsible for conducting fire inspections and enforcing the fire code. Duties also include conducting fire investigations to determine the cause and origin of fires. Positions are involved in collecting evidence for all fires of suspicious nature. Positions are also involved in conducting fire training programs and public education programs. Judgment and initiative are required in all aspects of the position Additional duties include assisting Emergency Management during severe weather outbreaks; hazardous materials spill investigations and training. Our office serves as a liaison between County Government and County Fire Departments. It assists with Fire Department ratings inspection as well as training exercises. We interact and assist in a variety of projects involving law enforcement, county departments, state agencies, as well as civic groups. This position is part-time, 500 hours per year
- Inspecting public buildings, public schools, foster homes, daycares, nursing homes, and places of assembly to enforce compliance with the fire code; researching and determining how various codes should be enforced.
- Reviewing building plans for new construction to ensure compliance with fire codes.
- Investigating fires to determine cause and origin; collecting and preserving evidence; cooperating with law enforcement agencies in establishing cases.
- Educating the public in the detection and correction of fire hazards; speaking to various groups on fire prevention.
- Investigating complaints and answering questions regarding fire hazards and violations of fire regulations.
- Keeping records and preparing reports of fire prevention activities.
- On-call for after-hours (rotation schedule)
- Performing other duties as assigned.
- Thorough knowledge of principles of fire prevention and safety.
- Thorough knowledge of inspection practices and all applicable fire and building codes.
- Thorough knowledge of current strategy, tactics and techniques of fire suppression.
- Thorough knowledge of salvage, overhaul, ventilation and fire rescue operations.
- Thorough knowledge of current firefighting methods including combustible liquid and structural firefighting principles, practices and procedures.
- Ability to independently interpret fire code.
- Ability to conduct effective fire scene examinations and investigations of suspicious fires.
- Ability to instruct volunteer firefighters and other employees in the principles and techniques of fire suppression.
- Ability to prepare reports and document case findings.
- Ability to perform heavy manual work under adverse conditions.
- Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public.
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees
Graduation from high school or have obtained a GED. Must possess and maintain a valid NC driver's license with a safe driving record. Relevant experience in the field related to fire suppression, investigation, or fire/emergency services. A standard NC Fire Code Inspector Level I or greater and/or the ability to prequalify as a Level I Fire Inspector.