Fire Suppression Technician

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a skilled professional passionate about life safety? We are actively searching for a detail-oriented and highly motivated Fire Suppression Technician to join our dynamic team. In this critical role, you will be the frontline expert responsible for the installation, inspection, service, and repair of a diverse array of fire suppression systems. You'll work with everything from traditional water-based sprinklers to advanced special hazard and clean agent systems. This position is perfect for a hands-on problem-solver who thrives in a field environment and understands the profound importance of their work in safeguarding people and property. If you're ready to apply your technical expertise and commitment to excellence, we want to hear from you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Fire Sprinkler Fitter Apprentice or Helper
Fire Alarm Technician
Mechanical or Plumbing Technician with relevant training
Military personnel with fire protection experience

Advancement To:

Lead Fire Suppression Technician or Field Supervisor
Fire Protection Project Manager
Fire Protection System Designer
Senior Inspector or AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) liaison

Lateral Moves:

Fire Alarm Systems Specialist
Security Systems Integration Technician
Building Inspector or Code Enforcement Officer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform comprehensive inspections, testing, and maintenance on a variety of fire suppression systems, including wet, dry, pre-action, deluge, foam, and clean agent systems (FM-200, Novec 1230, CO2), in strict accordance with NFPA standards and local codes.
Execute the installation of new fire suppression systems, including pipe fitting, wiring, and final system commissioning, based on approved engineering drawings and specifications.
Troubleshoot and diagnose complex system malfunctions, identifying root causes of issues in mechanical components, electrical circuits, and control panels to perform effective repairs.
Conduct emergency service calls to address system failures, alarms, and discharges, providing rapid and reliable support to clients 24/7 on a rotating on-call basis.
Meticulously complete and submit detailed electronic and paper-based service reports, inspection forms, and deficiency reports in a timely and accurate manner.
Read and interpret complex blueprints, diagrams, submittals, and product specifications to ensure correct installation, service, and compliance.
Manage and maintain an accurate inventory of parts, supplies, and tools on a company-provided service vehicle, ensuring readiness for all scheduled and emergency work.
Perform hydrostatic testing of system piping and components to verify system integrity and compliance with safety and performance standards.
Interface directly with customers on-site to provide system status updates, explain necessary repairs, and ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.
Train end-users on the proper operation and maintenance of their fire suppression systems, empowering them to respond effectively in an emergency.
Repair and replace system components such as sprinkler heads, control valves, gauges, flow switches, tamper switches, and fire pumps.
Conduct functional trip tests on pre-action, deluge, and special hazard systems to verify correct operation of detection and release mechanisms.
Adhere rigorously to all company and customer safety policies and procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe work practices.
Service and test special hazard systems found in high-value environments like data centers, industrial paint booths, commercial kitchens, and power generation facilities.
Perform flow tests on fire pumps and standpipe systems, accurately recording pressure and flow data to verify system performance.
Collaborate with project managers and other technicians to ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Maintain all required state and local licenses and certifications by completing continuing education and staying current with evolving codes and technologies.
Identify and document system deficiencies or code violations, preparing detailed proposals for corrective actions and necessary upgrades for the client.
Install and service backflow preventers, performing required annual testing and certification where licensed to do so.
Respond to system trouble signals, performing diagnostics to resolve issues with monitoring panels and communication lines.
Professionally represent the company by maintaining a clean and organized work environment, including the service vehicle and customer sites.

Secondary Functions

Provide technical support and clear documentation for ad-hoc system inquiries from clients, insurance carriers, or local fire authorities.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of service protocols, safety procedures, and field efficiency initiatives.
Collaborate with sales, design, and project management teams to provide technical insights and ensure seamless project execution from planning to completion.
Participate actively in team meetings, safety briefings, and ongoing manufacturer and industry training sessions to stay current with evolving standards and new technologies.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Deep knowledge of NFPA standards, particularly NFPA 13, 17, 17A, 25, 72, and 2001.
Expertise in the installation, service, and maintenance of various suppression systems (Clean Agent, CO2, Wet/Dry Chemical, Foam, Water Mist, and Water-Based Sprinklers).
Proven ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, technical manuals, and CAD drawings.
Experience performing hydrostatic testing, flow testing, and full functional system trip tests.
High proficiency with hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment used in the fire protection trade.
Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills for both mechanical and low-voltage electrical systems.
Valid Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
Possession of or ability to obtain state-specific licenses and/or NICET certification (Special Hazards or Water-Based Systems).
Familiarity with backflow preventer testing and repair procedures.
Competency with digital reporting tools, service software, and mobile applications for documentation.
Experience with programming and servicing fire alarm and releasing control panels.

Soft Skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with clients, team members, and authorities.
Strong customer service orientation with a professional and courteous demeanor.
Advanced problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as a collaborative member of a team.
Effective time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and deadlines.
A steadfast commitment to safety and a safety-first mindset.
Self-motivated with a strong work ethic and a desire for continuous learning.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

Associate's Degree or Certificate from a technical/vocational school in Fire Protection, Fire Science, or a related mechanical/electrical field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Fire Protection Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Electronics or Electrical Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-5 years of direct, hands-on experience as a Fire Suppression or Sprinkler Technician.

Preferred:

5+ years of experience in the fire protection industry, specifically with special hazard suppression systems.
NICET Level II or higher certification in Special Hazards Suppression Systems or Inspection & Testing of Water-Based Systems.
Manufacturer-specific training and certifications (e.g., Ansul, Kidde, Fike).