Fire Protection Specialist

Fire Protection Specialist -

Plan, organize, coordinate, and administer all activities related to statutory inspection activities in a multi-county area, as assigned by the Regional Supervisor. Perform fire safety inspections of all components of state-owned buildings and facilities. Enforce all laws under the jurisdiction of the State Fire Marshal relating to the prevention of fires and other conditions liable to cause injury or property damage.

Conduct comprehensive technical inspections of fire protection and suppression systems. Inspect and approve new construction and renovations prior to occupancy in state-owned buildings and facilities, as well as conducting pre-occupancy and renovation inspections in state-leased buildings and spaces. Provide written reports as mandated by Florida Statutes, and in accordance with Department, Division, and Bureau policies. Review construction documents to ensure compliance with fire and life safety standards.

In coordination with the Regional Supervisor and the Regulatory Licensing Section, conduct (1) inspections of fire protection contractors and fire equipment dealers; manufacturers, distributors, dealers, users and blasters of explosives; construction mining; and other regulated entities; (2) investigations of violations of statutes, codes and rules regulating the installation, repair, servicing and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers, pre-engineered systems, and fire protection systems;

(3) investigations into violations of statutes regulating the manufacture, distribution and use of explosives by manufacturers, distributors, dealers, users and blasters of explosives, and construction materials mining; (4) investigations of alleged violations by individuals who, though required to be, are not licensed. When violations are identified, issue notices to comply with laws, codes, standards and rules to ensure corrective action is taken by licensed individuals.

When legal action is necessary, collect and preserve evidence, and file necessary documents to present through administrative hearings or judicial courts for appropriate adjudication. Qualify and testify as an expert witness for the state in criminal and civil litigation, and administrative hearings. Prepare comprehensive written reports on all investigations. Respond to general correspondence, telephone inquiries, and requests to inspect according to Bureau policy.

Maintain prescribed records and other materials pertinent to the discharge of duties. Completes duties and assignments in a timely manner, according to Bureau policy and/or instructions from higher authority. Conduct investigations into the cause and circumstances of fires, for the purpose of determining adequacy of codes and standards, and the effect compliance of non-compliance had on the propagation of fire and smoke, and/or the disposition of injuries or fatalities which may have resulted there from.

Collect and preserve evidence and acts as an expert witness for the state in criminal and civil litigation, and administrative hearings. Maintain liaison with key personnel who are involved with fire protection activities. Study and research publications to ascertain the latest concerns, techniques and developments in the fire protection industry. Assist in development and implementation of training programs for regional personnel and local and state agencies.

Participate in Disaster Response Operations duties as assigned. Perform other related duties as required by higher authority.