Fire Alarm Test & Inspection Technician​/Apprentice

Mission Critical Solutions (MCS) is hiring for Fire Alarm Test & Inspection Technicians and Apprentices in Tampa, FL. This is a full‑time, permanent position with benefits.

The Fire Alarm Test & Inspection Technicians and Apprentices perform commercial fire alarm test and inspections as their primary responsibility. Personnel will execute NFPA 72 inspections, document system performance, identify deficiencies, and work within customer facilities. Depending on experience, tasks may range from basic device testing and documentation to troubleshooting, communicator testing, and identifying system issues. When inspection workload slows, the employee may be assigned to assist with installation or related field activities.

• Perform NFPA 72 compliant test and inspections of commercial fire alarm and related life safety systems.
• Test and verify field devices including:
  • Smoke detectors
  • Duct detectors
  • Manual pull stations
  • Horns, strobes, speakers, and notification appliances
  • Waterflow and tamper switches
  • Supervisory and relay devices
• Interpret and work from device layouts, riser diagrams, submittals, and operation manuals.
• Accurately record test results, device counts, and deficiencies in digital or physical inspection forms.
• Identify obvious device failures, damaged components, or wiring issues.
• Follow inspection sequences and safety procedures as required by NFPA 72 and the local AHJ.
• Maintain company tools, testing equipment, and PPE.
• Assist with basic installation, trim‑out, cable pulling, labeling, or cleanup if inspection schedules slow.
• Other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Apprentice‑level: mechanical/electrical aptitude; no fire alarm experience required.
• Technician‑level: 1–5+ years of commercial experience in fire alarm installation, service, or inspection preferred.
• Ability to use ladders, hand tools, and inspection equipment.
• Ability to work in commercial and institutional environments.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Ability to pass background checks and pre‑employment screening.

• FASA/BASA (or ability to obtain prior to or shortly after hire).
• Ability to obtain a Florida State JLA (Jessica Lunsford Act) badge when required by project.

• NICET I or II in Fire Alarm Systems.
  NICET is not required for hire. Advancement support is available for motivated employees.
• Manufacturer certifications (Notifier, Fire‑Lite, Silent Knight, etc.).
• OSHA safety training or similar credentials.

• Familiarity with NFPA 72 inspection procedures.
• Ability to read basic risers or system layouts.
• Experience documenting results in inspection software or paper forms.
• Understanding of commercial fire alarm system components.

• Preliminary troubleshooting
• Communicator testing
• Panel‑level review
• Identification of system deficiencies

Mission Critical Solutions (MCS) is a leading‑edge technology solutions provider headquartered in Tampa, Florida. MCS provides a broad range of products and services organized in six core lines of business:
Telecommunications, Structured Cabling, Audio‑Visual, Security and Life Safety Systems, Electrical Distribution Systems, and Unified Communications.