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Job Description
JOB Under the direction of the Fire Marshal, the Fire Inspector is responsible for fire prevention, inspection, investigation, public education, and emergency response. This position ensures compliance with federal, state, and local fire and life safety codes through plan reviews and inspections of new and existing multifamily residential, commercial, and industrial occupancies. Responsibilities include evaluating fire protection systems, identifying life safety hazards, conducting pre-incident planning, and assessing water supply for fire protection needs. The Fire Inspector plays a key role in community risk reduction by engaging property owners, contractors, and the public to promote fire safety and compliance. The position also assists in determining the origin and cause of fires in collaboration with public and private partners. The Fire Inspector may respond to emergency incidents to support command functions or fill operational roles and may act as Fire Marshal when assigned.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Conduct inspections of new and existing buildings to ensure compliance with state and local fire codes. Review plans for fire protection systems, including alarms and sprinklers, to verify proper design, installation, and function. Recommend revisions to plans and specifications to meet fire code requirements and operational needs. Develop and maintain effective working relationships with property owners, managers, contractors, and the public. Investigate reports of fire code violations and enforce corrective actions. Coordinate and update pre-incident plans to support emergency response operations. Maintain current knowledge of fire codes, regulations, and industry best practices. Prepare and maintain accurate inspection records, violation notices, and follow-up documentation. Coordinate fire prevention activities, including community programs and the annual open house. Develop and deliver fire and life safety education for schools, businesses, and community organizations. Collaborate with the Communications Department to produce fire safety and prevention messaging. Participate in fire investigations to determine origin and cause, working with the Fire Marshal, law enforcement, state and federal agencies, and private sector partners. Support incident command at emergency scenes and perform operational duties as assigned. Assist the Fire Marshal and serve in their capacity when designated.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED
Thorough knowledge of fire codes, inspection techniques, and fire prevention practices. Ability to read and interpret building plans, blueprints, and fire protection system specifications. Understanding of technical and mechanical components related to fire protection system design and review. Ability to work independently and collaboratively with professionalism and courtesy. Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with staff, contractors, business owners, and the public. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and fire department records management software. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. Knowledge of fire suppression practices and fire investigation principles.
INTERNAL/EXTERNAL CONTACTS
Daily contact with Fire Department personnel, city staff, and building inspectors. Frequent interaction with contractors, business owners, and community members. Collaboration with law enforcement agencies, state and federal fire officials, and partner organizations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
Normal vision and hearing, with or without correction. Exposure to all seasonal weather conditions. Work in active construction zones with heavy equipment, elevated surfaces, open hazards, and congested work areas. Work in environments with high noise, reduced visibility, limited mobility, heights, and confined spaces. Perform sustained physical activity requiring concentration and endurance. Exposure to extreme temperature variations during firefighting operations. Encounter smoke, hazardous environments, unstable structures, mechanical equipment, electrical hazards, radiant energy, explosives, and carcinogens. While wearing full turnout gear and SCBA, must be able to: Walk moderate distances, run short distances, and climb stairs and ladders. Crouch, crawl, balance, reach overhead, and twist or turn at major joints. Lift and carry equipment up to 50 lbs. Drag a 180-lb person at least 100 feet and perform team carries of similar weight. Use upper-body and hand strength to operate hydrants, tools, and equipment; manipulate small components such as valves and controls. Potential exposure to infectious biological agents such as hepatitis B and
HIV. EQUIPMENT USED
Desktop and laptop computers and standard office equipment. Fire inspection tools, meters, and measurement devices. Firefighting gear and equipment. The City of Shakopee is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
