Fire Inspector

City of Highland Park•Highland Park, IL

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

Ensure compliance with municipal fire and life safety codes by reviewing plans, conducting inspections, and enforcing applicable regulations. Perform field inspections of commercial, industrial, multi-family, institutional, and temporary structures to identify hazards, verify egress and fire protection systems, and ensure compliance with City, state, and federal fire codes. Work with property owners and contractors to achieve compliance through education and enforcement.

Requirements

Graduation from high school or GED equivalent is required.
Three to five years of experience in code enforcement, fire inspection, building inspection, or related field, preferably in a municipal setting.
Valid driver’s license required.
Illinois Fire Prevention Officer I certification within twelve months of hire.
ICC Fire Inspector I certification required within twelve months of hire.
Knowledge of fire prevention methods, fire codes, and applicable laws and regulations.
Knowledge of construction practices, materials, fire hazards, egress requirements, and fire protection systems.
Ability to read and interpret plans and specifications and recognize deviations.
Skill in identifying hazardous conditions and enforcing codes fairly, tactfully, and impartially.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with residents, contractors, and professionals.
Ability to establish effective working relationships and maintain a customer-service approach while enforcing compliance.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and permitting databases (ESO, Eden, EP&L).
Commitment to integrity, professionalism, and compliance with conflict-of-interest standards.

Nice To Haves

Broad experience in fire and life safety inspections strongly preferred.
Knowledge and experience enforcing the International Fire Code strongly preferred.
Additional code-related certifications in fire or building inspection disciplines strongly preferred.
ICC Fire Prevention Officer II or NFPA/ICC Fire Plan/Alarm/Sprinkler Plan Examiner certifications strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform fire and life safety inspections of new and existing structures including schools, industrial facilities, commercial kitchens, paint booths, storage tanks, fire alarms, sprinklers, hood and duct systems, tents, and other temporary structures.
Verify compliance with municipal, state, and federal fire codes, ordinances, and statutes.
Review fire sprinkler and egress plans for compliance with applicable codes.
Investigate complaints of fire and safety hazards, identify violations, and determine compliance status of properties, buildings, structures, and uses.
Apply enforcement actions as needed and work with property owners to resolve issues.
Provide education and guidance to promote voluntary compliance where possible.
Communicate with property owners, contractors, tenants, and staff to explain code requirements, describe violations, and achieve compliance.
Schedule and coordinate inspections, fire protection acceptance tests, and life safety inspections related to occupancy certification.
Assist with the administration of the City’s elevator safety program and coordination with certified contract elevator inspection firm.
Maintain accurate written records of inspections, violations, and enforcement actions.
Prepare reports, present findings to supervisors, and represent the City at administrative hearings or court proceedings as required.
Review projects for conformity with approved plans and conditions.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Attend meetings, conferences, and training to maintain certifications.