Lead Inspection Technician

Fortis Fire & Safety•Clearwater, FL

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Piper Fire Protection is seeking an experienced Lead Inspection Technician to serve as the senior inspection authority overseeing inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) of fire sprinkler and fire alarm systems throughout the Clearwater and surrounding Florida markets. This role is responsible for inspection quality, code compliance, deficiency reduction, customer confidence, AHJ relationships, and continuous improvement across inspection operations, while driving operational KPIs. The Lead Inspection Technician functions as a technical escalation resource, field mentor and trainer, QA/QC field leader, and operational improvement contributor.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in fire sprinkler and/or fire alarm inspection, testing, and service
Demonstrated experience independently inspecting all major system types (wet, dry, pre-action, deluge) and low-voltage fire alarm systems
Strong working knowledge of NFPA 25 and NFPA 72 (particularly Chapter 14), and applicable fire protection standards and codes
Prior experience formally mentoring, training, or onboarding inspectors/technicians.
Experience resolving escalated or contested inspection issues and communicating findings directly to AHJs and customers
NICET certification in Water-Based Systems and/or Fire Alarm Systems or willingness to obtain within an agreed-upon timeframe.
Experience working with commercial and/or industrial fire sprinkler and fire alarm systems
Knowledge of or experience with backflow testing and repairs is a plus
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, system drawings, and specifications
Strong troubleshooting, organizational, and documentation skills
Excellent communication and customer service abilities
Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including lifting, climbing, and working at heights and in varying weather conditions
Ability to meet company driving eligibility requirements, including holding a valid driver's license and maintaining an acceptable motor vehicle record

Responsibilities

Lead and coordinate daily field activities for fire sprinkler and fire alarm inspections and testing across assigned service areas
Perform inspection, testing, and maintenance on wet, dry, pre-action, and deluge fire sprinkler systems
Perform inspection and testing of low-voltage fire alarm systems in accordance with NFPA 72, Chapter 14
Conduct all work in accordance with NFPA 25, NFPA 72, and applicable Florida fire codes and standards
Conduct field QA audits of inspection teams to ensure quality and code compliance consistency
Reduce false deficiencies and missed deficiencies through coaching, audits, and quality oversight
Identify system deficiencies and provide clear recommendations for corrective actions
Complete and submit accurate inspection reports, deficiency reports, and compliance documentation
Serve as the primary on-site contact for customers, building owners, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs)
Mentor junior inspectors and trainees; conduct ride-alongs and field coaching sessions
Assist with onboarding and inspector development plans
Troubleshoot system issues and support repair recommendations and follow-up work
Support backflow testing and repair activities as needed
Ensure all work is performed safely and in compliance with company and OSHA standards
Maintain company vehicle, tools, and equipment in good working condition
Participate in on-call rotation and support emergency service needs as required