Fire Inspector

The Fire Inspector is responsible for conducting regular fire safety inspections, conduct specialized inspections for new and existing structures, maintain reports and records, communicate corrective measures to ensure premises meet or exceed the requirements of the Ontario Fire Code / relevant legislation, perform investigations and related documentation for legal processes, participate / lead in public education programs, and other duties as assigned.

Compensation

35 hours per week, $75,929 - $88,826 per annum 

Benefits and Perks

• Employer paid Group Health, Dental and Life Insurance after three months of employment.
• OMERS Pension Plan from the date of hire.
• Professional Development and Skill Based Training Opportunities.
• Alternate Work Arrangements.
• Wellness, Social and Staff Ambassador Committees.
• Employee and Family Assistance Plan.
• Perks and Savings Partnerships.

Qualifications

• Possess a High School Diploma.
• NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector Level 1.
• NFPA 1035 Fire and Life Safety Educator Level 1.
• Incident Management System (IMS) 100 certification.
• General knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, and legislation.
• Valid and satisfactory “G” driver license.
• Valid and satisfactory criminal background check with Vulnerable sector check.

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector Level II (Must obtain within 1st year of employment).
• NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator (Must obtain within 1st year of employment).
• NFPA 1035 Fire and Life Safety Education Level II.
• NFPA 1035 Public Information Officer.
• Commercial Cooking.
• Building Code Identification Number (BCIN) General Legal and Fire Protection.
• Emergency Medical Responder Certification through base hospital. (Must obtain upon hire.)

Responsibilities

• Conduct site inspections of all types of buildings to enforce fire code compliance with all applicable legislation and standards; conduct inspections arising from complaints, requests and identified priorities or problem buildings to ensure compliance with legislation, codes, and standards; issue orders requiring compliance with regulations.
• Conduct re-inspections as necessary to ensure compliance with required orders and directives.
• Assess property fire safety plans using appropriate legislative guidelines; provide and clarify guideline documents to building owners to ensure consistency in the development of an effective fire safety plan; review fire safety plans submitted, conduct site visits to verify the plan information, critique the plan and make recommendations.
• Respond to inquiries and meet with property owners and stakeholders in the community, and effectively seek voluntary compliance with By-laws and codes to eliminate safety / environmental hazards and to prevent fires; prepare reports and recommendations for property owners; review reports with the owners to ensure modifications required are understood and compliance issues are clarified; perform follow-up or recall inspections to verify compliance and issue a notice of non-compliance if necessary.
• Utilize knowledge of building construction, industrial processes, fire and life safety risks in all building types; fire alarm, commercial cooking and sprinkler systems; to inspect fire alarm and detection systems to ensure components are in place and systems are fully functional. Inspect building mechanical systems, fire separations, storage of hazardous materials or goods to ensure systems are operating safely and that adequate handling and fire protection measures are in place.
• Investigate fires to determine origin and cause. Liaise with other agencies (e.g. Ontario Fire Marshal/Law enforcement having jurisdiction) in determining origin and cause; maintain records of incident causes and related factors, inspected properties, and educational programs to assist in analyzing the resulting data.
• In consultation with the Deputy Fire Chief, Prevention, communicates with the media and public regarding safety issues and initiatives and public relations activities as required.
• Review building and development plans to advise on compliance with Codes, By-laws, and best practices; lay charges respecting violations of codes/provincial regulations and provide evidence in court proceedings; maintains confidentiality of inspection results, court proceeding information, public complaints, proposed developments, or purchases of land.
• Perform inspections for licenses and special events so relevant fire safety codes and standards are complied with, violations are identified and documented, and corrective measures are completed.
• Assist in researching, developing, and planning educational programs; utilize knowledge and experience in adult and child training principals and theories; present innovative and effective Fire and Life Safety Educational programs to the public; promote and stimulate interest and cooperation in fire prevention activities through public speaking, demonstrations, and other methods; work well with and motivate Volunteer Firefighters and community partners in the development and delivery of fire prevention programs.
• Maintain and inspect fire prevention vehicles and equipment on a routine basis.
• Exchange information with internal Fire, Building, Planning and Corporate Services staff; assist in maintaining an active liaison with other municipal departments relative to fire prevention issues. Engage in regular contact with other agencies, businesses, emergency services, utility providers and the public in exchanging information and requests for assistance.
• Respond to emergency incidents as directed by the Fire Chief or designate.
• Oversee Fire Prevention events and activities.
• Committed to personal professional development by actively maintaining currency with skills and knowledge of fire prevention issues, initiatives, and technology.
• Actively participates in occasional training opportunities as indicated by the Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, Prevention or Designate.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Chief Officers

Skills and Abilities

• Well-developed oral and written communications skills, including note taking.
• Analytical and decision-making skills.
• Strong conflict resolution skills.
• Organizational skills and time management skills.
• Awareness of safe work practice legislation in Ontario as it relates to job responsibilities and work environment and demonstrated understanding of the Occupational Health & Safety Act.
• Commitment to maintain confidentiality in accordance with applicable legislation and policy.
• Proficient in the use of MS Office, Internet, and fire department management software (e.g. FirePro, Citywide, Share Point), etc.
• Possess current First Aid and CPR certification.

Working Conditions

• Office environment plus travel locally (daily) by vehicle or periodically outside the Municipality.
• Exposure to elements such as inclement weather, fire, heat, smoke, chemicals, noise, dirt, dust, wetness and/or humidity, darkness or poor lighting, fumes/gas.
• Occasionally may require a breathing apparatus to be worn during inspections, investigations, and other operations.
• Availability for duties outside regular business hours as required.
• Availability for on-call duties as required.
• Occasional emotionally charged interactions with others; errors or incomplete inspections leading to undetected hazards could lead to property loss or loss of life; errors could result in legal action.