OVERVIEW

KITSAP COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (DCD) – Building and Fire Safety – Fire Marshal

DCD focuses on enabling and assisting our Kitsap residents in building quality, affordable, structurally, and environmentally safe developments in the Kitsap Community. We provide our team the opportunity to learn and grow within our positive and innovative work environment; we empower our team to make decisions and pride ourselves on a culture of continuous improvement. Please learn more about the department at: https://spf.kitsapgov.com/dcd.

Whether you want to join our team for just a few years or make a career with Kitsap County, we will provide the training and education to move you through an auto-progression program within the Construction Inspector series.

We are currently recruiting to hire a fire inspector to join our Fire Marshal’s team to accomplish reoccurring occupancy inspections in support of the Fire Marshal’s “Risk Check” fire and occupancy inspection program. This position is part of the Construction Inspector series and may be underfilled as a Technician, or Inspector 1 depending on qualifications. This is an exciting opportunity for those interested in joining the Fire Marshal’s team within Community Development’s Building and Fire Safety division regardless of your level of experience. The Department of Community Development provides inspector development and training through an approved automatic progression process, enabling employees to automatically promote after meeting progression requirements. Work for this position is generally accomplished at specific on-site locations, but may include virtual (work from home), in-person, and in-office assignments.
Depending on qualifications, we will bring you on at one of the following levels in the Inspector series:

FIRE TECHNICIAN GENERAL OVERVIEW
The technician is an entry level position, the first in the three-level inspector series. At this level, technicians work under the mentorship of senior staff to acquire the technical knowledge, and fundamentals of the discipline. Technicians develop, and learn to apply skills in performing inspections in new and existing commercial occupancies and operations, community events and celebrations, and other permitted activities. Upon obtaining the Fire Inspector II certification issued by the International Code Council (ICC) and demonstrating skill in its application, technicians progress to the Inspector 1 level. ($26.351/hr - $32.91/hr)

FIRE INSPECTOR 1 GENERAL OVERVIEW
The Inspector 1 is the second level of the inspector series. The Inspector 1 works under the general supervision of senior staff to complete basic, general assignments predominately in one work area; on-site inspections of existing occupancies, fire protection systems and permitted uses, on-site inspection of new commercial construction, fire protection systems or other permitted activity, or plan review associated with new construction, land use applications and other permitted uses and activities. The Inspector 1 also provides general support to other divisions and department operations and upon obtaining an additional certification and demonstrating skill in its application, the Inspector 1 progresses to the Inspector 2 level. ($28.41/hr - $35.48/hr)

FIRE INSPECTOR 2 GENERAL OVERVIEW
The Inspector 2 is at the top level of the inspector classification series and performs journey level work under limited supervision with competency demonstrated in more than one work area; plan review of commercial construction, land use applications and fire protection systems, on-site inspection of new construction and protection systems, on-site inspection of existing occupancies and uses, or permitting of a variety of special uses, events and activities. The Inspector 2 serves as a lead worker for the work group, provides leadership and mentoring to junior staff and assists with or completes special projects including code development, outreach, education, and similar activities. The Fire Inspector 2 is eligible for competitive promotion to vacant or vacating Deputy Fire Marshal positions and serves as a mentor to technicians and lower-level inspectors. ($30.45/hr - $38.02/hr)

All levels in the Fire Inspector series respond to citizen inquiries, maintain records as required in digital and other formats, provide support as needed to other departmental needs and priorities, and assist with code enforcement actions. Inspectors may also perform assignments during natural disaster emergency operations or recovery, and in support of fire investigation activities.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR PERFORMANCE OF THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Fire Technician
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High School diploma or GED; AND
• One (1) year of related experience in accomplishing reoccurring fire and life safety inspections; OR
• Equivalent combination of experience and education that provides the applicant with the desired knowledge, skills and ability required.

PREFERED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate or higher degree or technical certificate in fire science/administration, fire protection or engineering, building construction or related field.
• Possession of an ICC Fire Inspector I Certification.
• Reoccurring fire and life safety occupancy inspection experience in a City or County jurisdiction.

Fire Inspector 1
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED; AND
• Two (2) years of combined related experience including one year at the Fire Technician level accomplishing reoccurring fire and life safety occupancy inspections; OR
• Equivalent combination of experience and education that provides the applicant with the desired knowledge, skills and ability required to perform the work.
• Current certification from the International Codes Council (ICC) as a Fire Inspector II.

PREFERED EDUATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate or higher Degree or technical certificate in fire science/administration, fire protection engineering, building construction or related field.
• Additional approved, related ICC, NFPA, State or similar certifications.
• Reoccurring fire and life safety occupancy inspection experience in a County of City jurisdiction.

Fire Inspector 2
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED; AND
• Three (3) years of combined related experience including one year at the Fire Inspector I level accomplishing reoccurring fire and life safety occupancy inspections; OR
• Equivalent combination of experience and education that provides the applicant with the desired knowledge, skills and ability required to perform the work.
• Must possess the ICC Fire Inspector II and one additional ICC or other approved, related certification.

PREFERED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Supervisory or lead worker experience.
• Associate or higher Degree or technical certificate in fire science/administration, fire protection engineering or related field.
• Fire Plan Review Certification issued by International Code Council (ICC).
• Additional related ICC, NFPA, or State certifications.
• Experience in reoccurring fire and life safety occupancy inspection in a County or City jurisdiction.

Driving Requirements
The successful incumbent must meet the driving requirements of this position and submit a copy a current driving record/abstract (from state of residency) to review for eligibility to drive for Kitsap County prior to employment. The successful incumbent must obtain a valid Washington State Driver's License prior to hire and maintain a satisfactory driving record as outlined in the Kitsap County Vehicle Use Policy.

• This position is categorized as: Category 1: Driver operates County-owned vehicle, depending on assignment.

Required Licenses, Certificates, Examinations/Tests and Other Requirements
(Please note: The incumbent is responsible for obtaining and maintaining all of the following required licenses, certifications, and other requirements. The County will reimburse (upon a successful passing score) for additional required certification and renewals.)

Prior to employment, the successful candidate must:

• Submit a copy of required ICC certifications (Fire Inspector 2).
• Submit official transcripts from an accredited college or university or business school if education is being used to meet the minimum qualifications.
• Pass a medical evaluation that includes a physical, fitness, and audiometric testing.

Within twelve months of employment, the successful candidate must:

• Fire Technician. Satisfactorily complete an in-house training program and obtain the ICC Fire Inspector II certification.
• Fire Inspector 1. Satisfactorily complete an in-house training program and obtain one additional approved ICC or related certification.
• Fire Inspector 2. Satisfactorily complete in in-house training program.

Working Conditions/Physical Activities (Kitsap County provides reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

Work is performed in an office environment and in the field at construction sites. Positions in this class typically require:

• Walking, bending, stooping, and twisting. Reaching above and/or below shoulders. Handling/grasping documents for equipment.
• Sitting and/or standing for short or extended periods of time.
• Clear speaking and adequate hearing sufficient to communicate effectively and respond appropriately in-person, on the telephone, or using other electronic media.
• Hearing audible signals, traffic, equipment, warnings.
• Vision sufficient to drive a vehicle during daylight and nighttime hours, read source materials, plans and drawings, to read computer and similar screens and see detail or color. Repetitive motions for computer/tool/equipment use.
• Requires exertion of force of 50 pounds occasionally, 10 pounds frequently, and/or 5 pounds continuously to lift/carry/move objects, files/documents, and field equipment necessary to conduct inspections.
• May occasionally be exposed to physical hazards from obstacles, heavy equipment, construction materials, locations at, above or below grade, various airborne pollutants, chemicals, heavy metals, spray paints, loud noises, and domestic animals on construction sites.
• May require climbing steps and ladders, entry into attics and crawl spaces, traversing rough, slippery and / or uneven terrain on construction or other sites.
• Field inspections or evaluations may require extended periods of walking or standing, driving, or riding in a passenger vehicle, keyboarding, looking up or down and handling small hand tools like flashlights and clipboards.
• Don and use head, hearing, foot, eye and fall protection (as needed). Personal Protection Experience is required.
• Ability to crawl, climb ladders or temporary scaffolding stoop, duck, kneel, twist, extend arms above head to accomplish required examinations; and balance sufficient to traverse walkways, uneven or slippery surfaces, ascend and descend ladders and stairs.
• Exposed to potentially hazardous conditions at construction sites.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

In this role, you will have the opportunity to:

Fire Technician

• Assist in evaluating plans and specifications for compliance with building, and fire codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of specific disciple and individual authority.
• Assist in inspecting new or existing structures for compliance with building, and fire, codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of specific discipline and individual authority.
• Perform mathematical calculations such as required fire flow, access and travel distances, occupant load, and material quantities.
• Prepare a list of corrections or clarifications needed for reviewed plans and communicate this to applicant, contractor and/or engineers orally or in writing as required.
• Prepare a post-inspection list for owners and applicants regarding corrections required.
• Respond to public inquiries in person, in writing, and on the phone, regarding construction related matters and permit process procedures, translating technical and building code information and available alternatives.
• Participate in staff consultations advising applicants of code requirements and troubleshooting potential construction problems.
• Maintain regular office hours and meet with applicants and the public during office hours.
• Provide code interpretations, research questionable issues, providing necessary office and field support as needed.
• Perform limited building, and code compliance inspections.
• Use the department's record-keeping and permit management system to track permit activities, building inspection results, permit files, permit status, and related records.
• Keep current on changing codes and building practices through continuing education (seminars, classes, meetings) and reading of applicable journals. Maintain required certifications.

Fire Inspector 1

• Perform evaluations of plans and specifications for compliance with building and fire safety codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of specific disciple and individual authority.
• Perform inspections of existing structures or those under construction for compliance with building and fire codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of specific discipline and individual authority.
• Perform mathematical calculations such as required fire flow access and travel distances, occupant loads, exiting distances, friction loss, voltage drop and material quantities..
• Check fire-resistive construction for required exterior walls, occupancy and area separations, floor-ceiling assemblies, including fire doors and erosion control and backflow prevention.
• Authorize issuance or denial of permits.
• Prepare a list of corrections or clarifications needed for reviewed plans and communicate this to applicant, contractor and/or engineers orally or in writing as required.
• Prepare a post-inspection list for owners and applicants regarding corrections required.
• Respond to public inquiries in person, in writing, and on the phone, regarding construction related matters and permit process procedures, translating technical and building code information and available alternatives.
• Participate in staff consultations advising applicants of code requirements and trouble- shooting potential construction problems.
• Maintain regular office hours and meet with applicants and the public during office hours.
• Provide code interpretations, research questionable issues, providing necessary office and field support as needed.
• Perform building and code compliance inspections.
• Perform site evaluations as required to determine adequacy of submittals.
• Use the department's record-keeping and permit management system to track permit activities, building inspection results, permit files, permit status, and related records.
• Keep current on changing codes and building practices through continuing education (seminars, classes, meetings) and reading of applicable journals. Maintain required certifications.
• Participate in process improvement efforts in support of the mission goals and objectives of the department.

Fire Inspector 2

• Perform Journey level review of proposed commercial plans and specifications for compliance with building and fire codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of discipline and individual authority.
• Perform Journey level inspections of new and existing commercial structures for compliance with building and fire codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of individual authority.
• May assign, delegate, coach, develop and train subordinate staff.
• Investigates complaints by verifying that site conditions or usages comply with County ordinances; and determines if proper permits have been obtained.
• Reviews construction plans and details; determines code compliance; and identifies critical details for field investigations.
• Notifies property owners of deficiencies and safety hazards; issues final notices of non- compliance; sets forth time limitations; and writes follow-up letters.
• Recommends abatements or condemnations where public health, safety and welfare may be in jeopardy; cleans and secures nuisance properties, recommends contractors, scrap processors and tow companies and directs them on abatement and clean up procedures.
• May contribute to performance appraisals to evaluate subordinates; assist and/or give input regarding employee selection and discipline.
• Participate in or lead process improvement efforts applicable to the mission, goals, and objectives of the department.
• Investigates complaints by verifying that site conditions or usages comply with County ordinances; and determines if proper permits have been obtained.
• Notifies property owners of deficiencies and safety hazards; issues final notices of non- compliance; sets forth time limitations; and writes follow-up letters.
• Keep current on changing codes and building practices through continuing education (seminars, classes, meetings) and reading of applicable journals. Maintain required certifications.
• Participate in or lead process improvement efforts applicable to the mission, goals, and objectives of the department.

OTHER POSITION RELATED INFORMATION

• Who May Apply: This position is open to the general public. Applications will be screened for qualifications and completion of all the required materials and forms. The most competitive applicants may be contacted for further steps in the selection process, which may include testing for office and computer skills.
• This position is classified as eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
• This position is covered under a collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME 1308. Internal applicants should be aware that a change in union status or bargaining unit may impact your benefits and accruals. Please contact Human Resources if you have questions.
• Kitsap County is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please contact our Human Resources Office.
• This posting is open until filled; first review of applications will take place the week of December 12, 2022.
• Applicants from this posting can be used to fill other vacant positions for up to 6 months.
• Work hours for this position are Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• This position has been identified to be eligible for reimbursement of moving expenses up to a total of $7,500 for those candidates whose relocation meets the IRS distance test and in accordance with the Kitsap County Personnel Manual, Chapter 3, Section G.