Deputy Fire Inspector - Code Specialist

Harris County•Houston, TX

23d

About The Position

The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office is seeking a Deputy Fire Inspector – Code Specialist with extensive knowledge of fire code compliance and plan review, including advanced proficiency in the International Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and standards. The position supports life safety in Harris County through detailed plan reviews, evaluation of alternative design proposals, and expert guidance on fire code issues. The specialist works with developers, design professionals, permitting staff, and internal partners, and maintains relationships with state and national code development organizations. The role conducts technical reviews of building and site development plans for compliance with the IFC, NFPA standards, and Harris County amendments. It also supports code update and amendment processes, responds to code-related inquiries, and uses computer applications and databases to manage reviews and document code determinations. During emergencies or disasters, the employee may serve on an Incident Management Team. Other duties include maintaining awareness of Fire Marshal’s Office activities, serving on assigned committees or teams, and following safety practices and reporting requirements. This is a regular, full-time position working 40 hours per week. An on-call schedule may include nights, weekends, and holidays. The hourly salary range is $37.90–$43.20, commensurate with experience, based on 26 pay periods, plus benefits. Employment is contingent on passing a background check and drug screen.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent from an accredited educational institution.
Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) Fire Inspector Basic Certification.
At least one year of experience in fire code enforcement, plan review, or related regulatory enforcement.
Valid Texas Class C driver’s license at the date of hire.
Mastery-level knowledge of recognized standards, codes, and laws for fire inspections and identification of fire and life safety hazards, including LGC 352.016.
Strong knowledge of fire safety codes, regulations, and standards.
Excellent observational and analytical skills.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Proficiency with computer applications and inspection tools.
Knowledge in areas relevant to the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office.
Knowledge of incident management, such as the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
Knowledge of plan examination and ability to obtain TCFP certification as a plan examiner within one year.
Selected applicants advancing in the process must complete TCOLE Personal History Statement and Background Investigation Authorization forms.
Applicants are subject to a criminal background check, including fingerprinting; employment is contingent upon passing a background check and drug screen.
The application must document qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills; a resume may be attached as supporting documentation, but information stated only on a resume will not be used for consideration.

Nice To Haves

Five years of experience in fire code enforcement, plan review, or related regulatory enforcement.
Extensive working knowledge of the International Fire Code (IFC) and relevant NFPA codes and standards.
NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist certification, or ability to obtain it within one year of employment.
Texas Fire Commission Plans Examiner certification, or ability to obtain it within one year of employment.
ICC Fire Plans Examiner certification, or ability to obtain it within one year of employment.
Strong working knowledge of digital tools, including plan review platforms, electronic permitting systems, and Microsoft Office applications.
Proven ability to build effective working relationships and collaborate with regulatory agencies and professional organizations.
Candidates with a TCOLE Basic Peace Officer License or higher should note that additional position requirements apply.

Responsibilities

Conduct technical reviews of building and site development plans for compliance with the IFC, NFPA standards, and Harris County amendments.
Evaluate and recommend actions on alternative methods, code modifications, and code interpretations submitted for review.
Interpret fire and life safety codes during plan reviews and inspections, consulting recognized partners such as ICC and NFPA as needed.
Collaborate with architects, engineers, developers, and permitting staff to resolve complex code compliance issues.
Serve as a liaison between the Fire Marshal’s Office and other Harris County departments, including Engineering, on matters related to the Harris County Fire Code.
Maintain communication and professional networks with ICC, NFPA, and local stakeholders involved in code discussions.
Participate in code amendment processes, code update initiatives, and process development.
Use computer applications and databases to manage reviews, track issues, and document code determinations.
Respond professionally and promptly to code-related inquiries from the public and stakeholders.
Serve as a member of an Incident Management Team during emergency or disaster situations.
Maintain situational awareness of Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office activities.
Serve on committees, boards, or other teams as assigned by the Fire Marshal or designee.
Perform assigned tasks safely and document and report initial accidents, injuries, or health exposures in accordance with safety practices and office policy.
Represent the department professionally and obey applicable federal, state, and local laws.