Operations Manager (Kitchen Suppression / Fire Extiguisher

Silco Fire & Security • Toledo, OH

20d • Onsite

About The Position

The Operations Manager leads the day-to-day delivery and growth of Silco’s Kitchen Suppression and Fire Extinguisher Division in Toledo, Ohio. The division provides kitchen suppression system installations, semi-annual inspections, extinguisher service and sales, and repairs. The manager leads technicians and support staff, maintains compliance with applicable fire codes and standards, manages inventory and scheduling, and serves as the primary customer contact in the territory. The role is accountable for the division’s revenue, margin, and customer retention and reports to the Branch Manager / Director of Operations.

This is a full-time, on-site position with regular travel to customer sites within the Toledo territory. The work involves both office-based computer and phone work and visits to commercial kitchens and other customer locations. Field visits may involve standing, walking, climbing ladders, working on rooftops and in tight spaces, exposure to heat and noise, and lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds. Appropriate personal protective equipment is used at customer sites.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 3 years of fire protection industry experience focused on kitchen suppression systems and portable fire extinguishers.
• Proven success in operations management, project management, service management, or a comparable leadership role.
• Strong working knowledge of fire safety codes and standards, including NFPA 10, NFPA 17A, and NFPA 96.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage technicians and customers.
• Ability to prioritize and manage competing demands in a fast-moving service environment.
• Proficiency with scheduling, service management, and standard office software.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, and work in commercial kitchens, including on rooftops and in tight spaces.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to communicate clearly by phone, email, video call, and in person.

Nice To Haves

• State of Ohio or Michigan fire equipment certifications for kitchen suppression and portable extinguishers.
• Manufacturer certifications, such as Ansul, Amerex, or Pyro-Chem.
• Prior responsibility for a division or branch P&L.
• Experience selling or quoting fire protection services.
• Experience with a field service management platform.

Responsibilities

• Lead, schedule, coach, and supervise kitchen suppression and fire extinguisher technicians and support staff, including hiring, training, performance reviews, and safety accountability.
• Plan and oversee installations, inspections, maintenance, and repair work to ensure jobs are completed on time, on budget, and to code.
• Grow division revenue by developing sales strategies, pricing work, quoting repairs and new installations, and expanding extinguisher and suppression accounts in the territory.
• Ensure work complies with local, state, and national fire codes and standards, including NFPA 10, NFPA 17A, and NFPA 96, as well as manufacturer requirements.
• Conduct field audits and quality checks of technician work and inspection reports.
• Serve as the division’s primary customer contact, resolve service issues, handle escalations, and build relationships with restaurant operators, facility managers, and AHJs.
• Manage division inventory, vehicles, tools, and equipment; coordinate with purchasing and warehouse staff to maintain supplies and control costs.
• Coordinate with sales, service dispatch, other Silco divisions, and subcontractors on shared projects.
• Review division financials and operating metrics and act on them.
• Identify and lead process improvements to make the division faster, safer, and more profitable, and stay current on industry trends and new products.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Accident and illness insurance.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Company-paid short-term disability and life insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid holidays and generous paid time off.
• Tuition reimbursement and company-paid training and certifications.
• Up to 8 paid volunteer hours per year and dollar-for-dollar matching of charitable gifts.
• Company events and recognition programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED