DEPUTY FIRE MARSHAL 1 (Risk Check)

Job Description:

DEPUTY FIRE MARSHAL 1 (Risk Check)

Description

OVERVIEW

KITSAP COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (DCD) -

Building and Fire Safety

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 fill two vacant Deputy Fire Marshal 1 positions to accomplish reoccurring occupancy inspections in support of the Fire Marshal’s “Risk Check” fire and occupancy inspection, and other programs. This is an exciting opportunity for those interested in joining the Fire Marshal team within Community Development's Building and Fire Safety division regardless of your level of experience. The positions may be filled as a Fire Technician, Fire Inspector 1, or a Deputy Fire Marshal 1 depending on qualifications. Community Development provides development and training through an approved automatic progression process, enabling employees to automatically promote from a Technician to a Deputy Fire Marshal after meeting progression requirements.

Depending on qualifications, we will bring you on at one of the following levels in the Deputy Fire Marshal series:

FIRE TECHNICIAN - GENERAL OVERVIEW
This category is designed as an entry level, trainee/apprentice position to progress through the Deputy Fire Marshal series. An employee in the Fire Technician classification develops skills and assists in performing fire prevention and life safety inspections of commercial uses, and or reviewing plans and issuing permits for special uses and assisting with code compliance activities. Fire Technicians may assist in performing new construction or fire protection system inspections, and / or plan reviews of less complicated occupancies or protection systems. Upon obtaining the ICC Fire Inspector II certification, satisfying in-grade experience requirements, and completing an in-house training and skill competency development program, Fire Technicians auto-promote to the Fire Inspector classification. ($24.35/HR - $34.41/HR)

FIRE INSPECTOR - GENERAL OVERVIEW
This classification is for applicants who have their initial fire code certification and some experience doing fire inspections in all classifications of existing occupancies, or a combination of experience in existing occupancy, new construction, or fire protection system inspection and plan review. n employee in the Fire Inspector classification performs basic general, discipline specific on-site inspection work or plan reviews in support of the team’s Risk Check existing occupancy inspection, new construction review and inspection, permitting, or code compliance programs. Upon receiving additional approved certifications, satisfying in-grade experience requirements, and completing an in-house training and skill competency development program the Fire Inspector auto-promotes to the Deputy Fire Marshal 1 classification. ($26.25/HR - $37.08/HR)

DEPUTY FIRE MARSHAL 1 - GENERAL OVERVIEW
This classification is for applicants who have multiple fire code or related certifications and substantial experience, skill, and competency in performing inspection, plan review, permitting, or code compliance functions in support of the division’s programs. In addition to performing journey level work in all program areas, Employees in the Deputy Fire Marshal 1 classification may develop and present educational or informational programs, and receive training, develop skills, and assist with accomplishing origin and cause fire investigations throughout the county. ($28.14/HR - $39.78/HR)

This position will be posted continuously until filled.

The first review of applications will occur the week of September 9, 2024.

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, fire plans review, new construction or fire protection system inspections, fire prevention education, or investigation, OR
• Equivalent combination of experience and education that provides the applicant with the desired knowledge, skills and abilities required.

PREFERED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate or higher degree or technical certificate in fire science/administration, fire protection engineering, building construction or related field.
• Reoccurring fire and life safety occupancy inspection experience in a City or County jurisdiction.
• Higher education levels may be substituted for required experience.

Fire Inspector 1

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED; AND
• Two (2) years of combined related experience accomplishing fire and life safety inspections of existing occupancies, accomplishing plan review, new construction or fire protection system inspections, permitting, or code compliance activities related to the division’s programs including 1-year of experience equivalent to the Fire Technician; OR
• An equivalent combination of experience, certification, and education that provides the applicant with the desired knowledge, skills and ability required to perform the work.
• Current ICC (International Codes Council) certification as a Fire Inspector II is required at the time of appointment.

PREFERED EDUATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate or higher Degree or technical certificate in fire science/administration, fire protection engineering, building construction or related field.
• Additional related experience.
• Additional related ICC, NFPA, or State certifications.
• Reoccurring fire and life safety occupancy inspection experience in a County of City jurisdiction.
• Higher education levels may be substituted for one year of the required experience.

Deputy Fire Marshal 1

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma; AND
• Four (3) years of combined related experience accomplishing fire and life safety inspections of existing occupancies, plan review, new construction or fire protection system inspections, permitting, or code compliance activities related to the division’s programs including 1-year of experience equivalent to the Fire Inspector 1; OR
• An equivalent combination of experience and education that provides the applicant with the desired knowledge, skills and ability required to perform the work.
• Current ICC certification as a Fire Inspector II and one additional related ICC or other approved certification is required at the time of appointment.

PREFERED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Supervisory or lead worker experience.
• Associate or higher Degree or technical certificate in fire science/administration, fire protection engineering, building construction 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 Fire Inspector 2 or other related certifications.
• 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.
• Pass a psychiatric evaluation and additional physical evaluation including certifying the applicant’s ability to perform required functions while wearing air purifying respirators and self-contained breathing apparatus is required for Deputy Fire Marshal 1 positions assisting with fire investigation.
• Pass a background check.

Within twelve months of employment, the successful candidate must:

• Technician . Satisfactorily complete an in-house training and skill competency demonstration program and obtain the ICC Fire Inspector II certification.
• Fire Inspector 1 . Satisfactorily complete an in-house training and skill competency demonstration program and obtain one additional approved ICC or related certification.
• Deputy Fire Marshal 1. Satisfactorily complete an in-house training and skill competency demonstration 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 be required to don and accomplish work wearing air purifying respirators or self-contained breathing apparatus when assisting with or perform fire investigation functions.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

In this role, you will have the opportunity to:

Fire Technician

• Assist in evaluating plans and specifications for compliance with fire and building codes.
• Assist in inspecting new or existing structures or uses for compliance with fire and building codes.
• Perform mathematical calculations such as fire flow availability, allowable building height, number of stories occupant load, and exiting sufficiency.
• Prepare a list of corrections or clarifications needed for reviewed plans or applications and communicate same 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 as needed.
• Maintain regular office hours and meet with applicants and the public during office hours.
• Perform limited building, and code compliance inspections or plan reviews.
• 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

• Perform detailed review of plans and specifications for compliance with fire and building codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of specific disciple and individual authority.
• Inspect existing occupancies, new construction and special or operational uses to assure compliance with applicable fire and building codes.
• Perform mathematical calculations such as fire flow availability, allowable building height, number of stories, heat loss, stress compliance factors, composition of structural components, occupant load, and load bearing capacity.
• 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 fire safety or inspection 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 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.

Deputy Fire Marshal 1

• Perform Journey level review of plans and specifications submitted for all manner of fire or building permits for compliance with applicable codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of discipline and individual authority.
• Perform Journey level inspections of all manner of new and existing residential and commercial uses and structures for compliance with fire and building codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of individual authority.
• Issue or deny construction or operational permits.
• May assign, delegate, coach, develop and train subordinate staff.
• Investigate complaints by verifying that site conditions or usages comply with County ordinances; and determines if proper permits have been obtained.
• Prepare lists of corrections or clarifications needed for reviewed plans and communicate this to applicant, contractor and/or engineers orally or in writing as required.
• Notify property owners of deficiencies and safety hazards resulting from inspection; issue final notices of non-compliance; set forth time limitations; and write follow-up letters.
• Initiate code enforcement actions and recommend abatement or condemnation where public health, safety and welfare may be in jeopardy; direct contractors on abatement and clean up procedures and actions and determine final abatement compliance.
• Assists technicians with difficult assignments.
• Resolves conflicts with applicants, contractors, building owners or operators, business owners and coordinates activities with other enforcement agencies.
• 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.
• Participate in staff consultations on site or as needed to support applications or other actions.
• Respond to public inquiries in person, in writing, and on the phone, regarding fire safety or inspection related matters and permit process procedures, translating technical and building code information and available alternatives, and resolve issues.
• Deliver targeted education programs.
• Assist with fire investigation as needed.
• Perform site evaluations as required to determine adequacy of submittals.
• Use the department's record-keeping and permit management system to evaluate work assignments and process improvements, 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.

OTHER POSITION RELATED INFORMATION

• Who May Apply : This position is open to the 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.
• 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 will be posted continuously until filled.

The first review of applications will occur the week of April 1, 2024.

At Kitsap County, we strive to take care of our team! Our employees are the greatest asset of Kitsap County, and we take pride in offering a highly competitive compensation and benefits package to all eligible employees.

County Paid Benefits Include:
Medical - Kaiser Permanente (HMO) or Aetna (PPO)
Dental -Delta Dental or Willamette
Vision - VSP
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Life Insurance - Basic, Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D), Voluntary Term Life Insurance (VTL)
MetLife Long Term Disability
Voya Voluntary Insurance
Transportation incentives
Employee Assistance Program
Travel Assistance Program
Wellness program https://spf.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Wellness.aspx
Benefits become effective on the first calendar day of the month following the month in which the employee is hired except if the employee's hire date is the first calendar day of the month, benefits begin on the day of hire. More information about employee benefits is available on the county's website at: https://spf.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Benefits.aspx or the Kitsap County Digital Benefits Guide .

*Voluntary benefit options also available at the employee's expense

Retirement:
Employees are covered under the PERS retirement plan provided through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and Social Security.

Deferred Compensation (IRS Plan 457b): tax-deferred savings program

Holidays
11 paid holidays and 2 additional floating holiday per year

Vacation Leave
New employees are credited with 48 hours of annual leave upon hire and will be begin accruing at the rate of 8 hours per month starting on their 7th month of employment. Employees may carry over 360 hours from one calendar year to the next. Annual leave accrual will increase upon tenure, as follows:

Upon completion of 3 years: 15 days per year (10.00 hours per month)
Upon completion of 5 years: 20 days per year (13.33 hours per month)
Upon completion of 10 years: 25 days per year (16.67 hours per month)
Sick Leave
All new hires will be credited with 48 hours of sick leave upon hire and will begin accruing at the rate of 8 hours per month starting on their 7th month of employment. Employees may carry over 1200 hours from one calendar year to the next.

***Part-time employees benefit contributions and leave accruals will beprorated***

Additional compensation that you may be eligible for:
Shift differential
Overtime
Stand by pay
Call-back pay

Current County Employees
If you are transferring or promoting into this position you are responsible for reviewing these benefit changes; prior to accepting a position. In addition, it is your responsibility to notify the Auditor's Payroll Division of a change in union status.

Union Membership
This position is covered under AFSCME Local 1308 Courthouse Employees collective bargaining agreement. To view the bargaining agreement please visit our website: https://www.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Collective-Bargaining-Agreements.aspx

NOTE: This is a general overview of the benefits offered through employment with Kitsap County, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts or is incorrect with the provisions of the Personnel Manual, applicable laws, policies, rules or official plan documents they will prevail. The Personnel Manual is available at: https://www.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Personnel-Manual-2019.aspx

Salary:

$24.35 - $39.78 Hourly