Technician, Fire and Safety Systems

Howard County Public School System • Thomasville, NC

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Fire & Safety Systems Technician is a skilled technical operations position under the direction of Building Maintenance Management. The technician helps ensure the safety and security of school facilities by maintaining, inspecting, testing, and repairing fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, CCTV systems, card readers, call-boxes, and other security systems across school sites. The role includes responding to malfunctions and emergency service calls and maintaining compliance with applicable fire safety and building codes.

This is a 12-month, full-time, non-exempt position in the AFSCME bargaining unit. The full-time duty day is 8.5 hours, including an unpaid 30-minute duty-free lunch. The position is designated as an emergency employee and may require responses during inclement weather and other emergencies. Weekend, evening, or shift work may be required when work cannot be scheduled during normal school-year hours. Employees are issued a school system cell phone for supervisor calls and emergency response needs.

Work may involve uncomfortable or hazardous surroundings, special physical demands, and use of protective equipment. The selected candidate must pass a required physical examination. The position requires a Maryland Class C driver's license and satisfactory driving record, and the employee is responsible for the safety and maintenance condition of the assigned vehicle. Compensation is based on Grade IX of the Audio Visual/Grounds/Maintenance/Warehouse salary scale and placement procedures that consider relevant prior experience. Eligible employees may receive HCPSS benefits; retirement plan membership is mandatory for employees meeting applicable eligibility criteria.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; documentation must be uploaded with the application.
• Three years of experience as a fire alarm technician.
• Maryland Class C driver's license and satisfactory driving record.
• Knowledge of various fire alarm systems and their components.
• Familiarity with relevant codes, standards, and regulations.
• Troubleshooting skills for commercial low-voltage systems.
• Competent computer skills.
• Practical field electrical and/or electronic experience.
• Ability to differentiate cable color coding.
• Knowledge of standard trade practices, methods, tools, instruments, equipment, and trade-related safety principles.
• Working knowledge of fire alarm system installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Skill in using hand tools used in the trade.
• Ability to interpret and prepare work orders, including time and materials used.
• Ability to communicate effectively and maintain good working relationships with coworkers and school administration.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
• Ability to stand, walk, sit, bend, squat, climb, and use arm and hand movements.
• Ability to carry tools and handle materials and equipment weighing 80 to 100 pounds; physical requirements also include lifting 50 pounds or more.
• Ability to work at heights using aerial lifts, scaffolding, stepladders, and/or extension ladders; crawl through or around equipment; and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to respond to emergency calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Ability to meet all requirements of a physical examination administered by a medical service selected by the Howard County Department of Education.
• Must use protective equipment such as goggles, gloves, or a mask as required.
• Applicants educated outside the United States must have their education evaluated by an MSDE-approved organization.

Nice To Haves

• Completion of a recognized fire alarm or safety systems training program.
• Fire safety certification, such as NICET certification.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, test, and maintain fire alarm systems to ensure proper operation and compliance with fire safety regulations; update service logs and inspection records.
• Diagnose and repair fire alarm system faults, including replacing faulty components, wiring, or control panels; respond promptly to emergency service calls.
• Inspect, maintain, and repair security systems, including CCTV cameras, burglar alarms, and card readers.
• Assist with installation and upgrades of fire and security systems, including setup, configuration, and testing.
• Maintain detailed records of maintenance, inspections, repairs, and upgrades; ensure compliance with fire safety and building codes and prepare reports for management and regulatory agencies.
• Coordinate with school administrators and maintenance teams to schedule work and provide status updates about fire and security systems.
• Provide staff with training or guidance on fire safety equipment and evacuation protocols.
• Use safety devices and protective equipment and follow safe work practices; correct building or grounds hazards when possible and report them to the appropriate administrator.
• Maintain the safety and condition of the assigned vehicle.
• Respond to emergency events as needed, including during inclement weather and other emergencies.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees.
• Paid time off information is available in the negotiated agreement for the bargaining unit.
• Mandatory membership in the Maryland State Retirement Agency pension plan applies to employees meeting the plan's eligibility and membership criteria; the stated annual employee contribution is 7% of salary.

What This Job Offers

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