Fire Inspector I

City of Haines City•Haines City, FL

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Fire Marshal, the Fire Inspector I performs technical field and office work related to fire prevention, fire and life safety inspections, code enforcement, and community risk reduction. This civilian, non-sworn position conducts inspections, identifies and documents code violations, coordinates corrective actions, and assists with reviewing building plans and fire protection systems. The employee works with property owners, contractors, developers, business representatives, City departments, outside agencies, and the public to promote compliance with applicable fire and life safety codes and ordinances. The position also supports public education and other fire prevention initiatives. It has no routine fire suppression or emergency response duties, but the employee may be required to report during declared emergencies as directed by fire administration. Work takes place in office settings and field environments, including commercial buildings, multifamily properties, industrial facilities, institutional occupancies, and construction sites. Fieldwork may entail exposure to extreme weather, uneven terrain, stairs, ladders, elevated areas, attics, rooftops, mechanical rooms, restricted-access locations, construction hazards, electrical and mechanical equipment, hazardous materials, dust, and noise. The employee must follow safety procedures, use appropriate protective equipment, travel to various locations, and perform inspections under varying environmental conditions.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
State of Florida Fire Safety Inspector I certification.
Valid Florida Class E driver's license and ability to meet the City's vehicle insurance requirements.
Ability to obtain and maintain all certifications and training required for the position.
Knowledge of the Florida Fire Prevention Code, applicable Florida Statutes and Administrative Code provisions, NFPA standards, and local fire prevention ordinances.
Knowledge of fire prevention principles, fire hazards, building construction, means of egress, and fire and life safety requirements.
Knowledge of fire protection systems, including sprinkler, alarm, and suppression systems.
Ability to read and interpret building plans, site plans, blueprints, technical documents, and applicable code provisions.
Ability to identify fire and life safety deficiencies and communicate required corrective actions.
Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and complete inspection reports, notices, correspondence, and other records.
Ability to use computers, inspection software, records management systems, and standard office applications.
Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to explain code requirements professionally to the public and industry representatives.
Ability to balance code enforcement with education, customer service, and community risk reduction.
Strong analytical, observational, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and complete assigned work within established timeframes.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with department personnel, City employees, contractors, outside agencies, and the public.
Ability to maintain accurate records and handle inspection and enforcement matters in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.
Successfully complete the City's post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug screening, and applicable background checks.
Comply with applicable City and department policies, procedures, and administrative requirements.
Maintain required certifications, licenses, and professional training throughout employment.
Obtain American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within six months of the start date.
Obtain ICS-100, ICS-200, IS-700, and IS-800 NIMS training certifications within the timeframe established by the department.
Be able to work independently, exercise sound judgment, maintain accurate records, and communicate effectively with the public and City personnel.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree or higher in Fire Science, Public Safety, Building Construction, Fire Protection, or a related field.
State of Florida Fire Safety Inspector II certification.
Experience in municipal government, fire prevention, building inspection, or public-sector code enforcement.
ICC or NFPA certifications related to fire inspection, plan review, or fire protection systems.
Experience conducting inspections, reviewing plans, documenting code violations, or coordinating corrective actions.

Responsibilities

Conduct fire and life safety inspections of applicable existing commercial, multifamily, industrial, institutional, and other occupancies.
Inspect buildings and facilities for compliance with the Florida Fire Prevention Code, applicable NFPA standards, local ordinances, and other relevant fire and life safety requirements.
Identify, document, and communicate code violations and required corrective actions.
Conduct follow-up inspections and document enforcement activities.
Review building plans, site plans, fire protection system submittals, and development proposals within the scope of the position's certifications and delegated authority.
Review documentation for fire sprinkler, fire alarm, and fire suppression systems as assigned and authorized.
Prepare inspection reports, violation notices, correspondence, and other records in accordance with department procedures and applicable requirements.
Maintain accurate inspection records, case documentation, follow-up actions, and related information in designated records management systems.
Communicate fire code requirements and respond to questions and complaints about fire prevention, code compliance, and life safety requirements.
Support public education programs and community risk reduction initiatives, including fire prevention outreach.
Coordinate with the Fire Marshal, Building Division, Planning Division, City departments, and outside agencies on inspections, construction projects, and code compliance.
Assist with developing, implementing, and reviewing fire prevention procedures, inspection processes, and division initiatives.
Maintain knowledge of applicable codes, standards, laws, regulations, and inspection practices through continuing education and professional development.
Attend required meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities; maintain required certifications, licenses, and training.
Perform additional duties as assigned.
Report for work during a declared emergency in Polk County if directed by fire administration.