DEPUTY FIRE MARSHAL 1 - COMMERCIAL BUILDING /FIRE PLAN EXAMINER

Job Description:

DEPUTY FIRE MARSHAL 1 - COMMERCIAL BUILDING /FIRE PLAN EXAMINER

Description

OVERVIEW

Make a difference in your community.
Become a part of the Kitsap County team!
Do what you love while serving the citizens where you live.

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 you need to advance through the series to the highest levels of the Inspector classification.

We are currently recruiting to hire a commercial building and fire plans examiner to join the department’s Building and Fire Safety team to accomplish plan review on a variety of commercial occupancies, land and site development, and fire protection system permit applications as they relate to the International Fire and Building Codes. The ideal candidate for this position will have a current International Code Council (ICC) Building Plans Examiner certification and two years of experience in accomplishing commercial building construction and fire plan review in a city, county or other jurisdiction with fire and building permitting responsibilities.

Commercial and fire building plan review is accomplished within the Fire Marshal group of the Building and Fire Safety division, and this is an exciting opportunity for those interested in joining our Building and Fire Safety team regardless of your level of experience as this position can be filled as a Technician, an Inspector or Deputy Fire Marshal 1 depending on qualifications.

Depending on qualifications, we will bring you on at one of the following levels in the Construction Inspector series:

TECHNICIAN GENERAL OVERVIEW
This classification is designed as an entry level, trainee/apprentice position where incumbents have no certifications and minimal experience. Incumbents in this classification will develop skills in reviewing plans and materials submitted for commercial building construction, fire protection and / or land use and site development permit applications. Technicians promote to Inspector 1 upon receiving an initial certification and demonstrating competency in code application. ($25.71/hr - $32.91/hr)

INSPECTOR 1 GENERAL OVERVIEW
This classification is designed as a journey level position where incumbents have expertise in a single discipline (building construction or fire protection) together with a related certification and experience. Incumbents in the Inspector 1 classification perform general commercial, fire, and or site development plan reviews, in support of a variety of permit applications for new construction or development. May also perform on-site building construction or fire protection system inspections or site evaluations in support of code compliance activities. Employees in this classification also respond to customer or applicant inquires on code related matters and may provide training for staff development. Inspectors promote to Deputy Fire Marshal 1 upon receiving additional certifications and demonstrating competency in code application. ($27.72/hr - $35.48/hr)

DEPUTY FIRE MARSHAL 1 GENERAL OVERVIEW
This classification is designed as a journey level position where incumbents have expertise in multiple disciplines (building construction and fire protection) together with related certifications and substantial experience. Incumbents in the Deputy Fire Marshal 1 classification perform journey level plan review in support of all manner of multiple discipline commercial building, fire protection system or site development construction permit applications. Employees may also perform or assist other inspectors in on site approval inspections, site evaluations for code compliance, respond to customer inquiries, assist in code development, present educational programs and perform lead worker activities in training junior employees. ($29.71/hr - $38.02/hr)

This position will be posted continuously until filled.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR PERFORMANCE OF THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Technician

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High School diploma or GED; AND
• One (1) year of related experience in accomplishing commercial building construction and / or fire protection plan review; 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 architecture or building design, fire science/administration, fire protection or engineering, or related field.
• Permit related plan review experience in a City or County jurisdiction.
• Higher education levels may be substituted for required experience.

Inspector 1
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED; AND
• Two (2) years of combined experience in accomplishing plan review of new commercial building construction and / or fire protection ; 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 Building Plans Examiner certification.

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 ICC, NFPA, or State certifications.
• Experience in commercial building and fire plan review in a County or City jurisdiction.
• Higher education levels may be substituted for required experience.

Deputy Fire Marshal 1
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma; AND
• Four (4) years of combined related experience including one year equivalent to the Inspector I level accomplishing commercial building construction and / or fire plan review; 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 Building Plans Examiner and either a Fire Plans Examiner or Fire Inspector II certification .

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 or Commercial Plan Review Certification issued by International Code Council (ICC).
  
  
• 
  Additional related ICC, NFPA, or State certifications.
  
  
• Experience in performing building construction and fire plan review in a County or City jurisdiction.
  
• Higher education levels may be substituted for required experience.
  

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 II) 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.

Within twelve months of employment, the successful candidate must:

• Technician . Satisfactorily complete an in-house training program and obtain the ICC Building Plans Examiner certification.
• Inspector 1. Satisfactorily complete an in-house training program and obtain either the ICC Fire Plans Examiner or other additional approved ICC or related certification.
• Deputy Fire Marshal 1. 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.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

In this role, you will have the opportunity to:

Technician

• Assist in evaluating plans and specifications for compliance with building and fire codes.
• Assist in inspecting new commercial construction for compliance with fire and building codes.
• Perform mathematical calculations such as 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 post-inspection lists 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.
• Assist in performing 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.

Inspector 1

• Review commercial building construction plans and specifications for compliance with building and fire codes and ordinances and resolve conflicts within the scope of specific disciple and individual authority.
• Inspect new commercial construction and special or operational uses to determine sufficiency and accuracy of materials submitted for permit applications.
• Perform mathematical calculations such as 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 post-inspection lists for owners and applicants regarding corrections required.
• Respond to public inquiries in person, in writing, and on the phone, regarding building or fire safety, plan review or other building code 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.
• 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

• Review commercial building construction, fire protection and system 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.
• 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 or lower-level inspectors 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.
• Perform site evaluations as required to determine sufficiency and accuracy of materials submitted for permit applications.
• 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 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.
• 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.

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