DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS OF WORK
This is a classified position under the supervision of the officer in charge of the Fire Prevention Bureau. The primary duties are those of conducting fire safety inspections and related work pertaining to the prevention of unwanted fires, or reducing their frequency or intensity, and fire/arson investigations into the cause and origin of fires.
Work is performed under general supervision and employee exercises high degree of independent judgment in the interpretation, application and enforcement of State and Municipal codes and ordinances pertaining to fire inspection and fire investigation and business tax inspection.
ESSENTIAL EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
The following illustrates examples of some of the essential duties and responsibilities of the Fire Inspector. There may be other essential functions, not listed below, in order to accomplish the tasks as presented by the Supervisor.
- Accomplishes periodic inspections of industrial, commercial, and residential properties and places of public assembly to determine compliance with fire prevention codes and ordinances.
- Inspects buildings and structures to determine the proper fire detection or suppression system, or equipment required.
- Secures cooperation of property owners to eliminate fire hazards.
- Accomplish a continuous fire inspection program to detect fire hazards of fire conducive conditions.
- Investigates complaints pertaining to violations of fire prevention codes and ordinances and gives advice for corrective action.
- May be required to assist local schools in conducting fire prevention programs.
- Presents lectures and visual demonstrations to civic organizations and school groups on proper use of fire prevention equipment and techniques and fire hazards to include explosive qualities of various common household cleaners and miscellaneous household items.
- Performs fire/arson investigations into the cause and origin of fires.
- In cases where the Fire Prevention Inspector is alone and is on a fire/arson investigation site and has a reasonable belief that the scene, area or other circumstances present a potential hazard, they may request assistance and when deemed appropriate by a supervisor such additional person will be provided.
- Operate a city vehicle in conducting inspections.
- Visits a business enterprise, requests proof of valid Business Tax Receipts and of supporting records and documents, confirms units on which business tax fee may be based, and check for compliance with regulatory parts of the specific business tax classification.
- Investigates operations without proper or valid Business Tax Receipts and reports other known violations of the City of Hialeah Code to the proper Departmental Authority.
- Insures business operators’ compliance with requirements under which their Business Tax Receipt is issued.
- Specifically, items covered under Chapter 86 (Taxation) of the City of Hialeah Code of Ordinances.
- When necessary, collects payments due for Business Taxes and delinquent fees.
- Reports daily in writing, all activities, collections and notices of violation on the appropriate forms provided by the Business Tax Receipt Division.
- Conducts thorough inspections as assigned by the Fire Marshal or designee to ensure compliance with fire safety codes and regulations. This includes checking fire suppression systems, alarms, exits, and safety equipment.
- Evaluates new construction for sprinkler systems, fire alarms, and life safety measures as required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Findings are documented, and reports with corrective recommendations are provided to maintain a safe environment.
- Performs other related duties as required, and/or any other duties as described in Florida State Statute.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of fire inspection and educational methods used in fire prevention; and State and Municipal codes and ordinances pertaining to fire inspection.
- Ability to recognize common fire hazards.
- Ability to perform fire/arson investigations.
- Negotiate firmly and effectively with the general public in the enforcement of fire codes and ordinances.
- Speak clearly and concisely.
- Ability to follow oral and written instructions, write and type clear and accurate reports.
- Thorough knowledge of the geography of the City of Hialeah, especially of commercial and industrial areas.
- Working knowledge of local and State regulations and laws in regard to business activities.
- Knowledge of the Hialeah business community through sales work or other services to government or private enterprise.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The following are some of the physical requirements associated with this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made by the City to enable an individual to perform the essential duties/functions of the position.
- Must have ability to effectively communicate and interact with other employees and the public through the use of telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, stand, hear, hands to finger dexterity, handle, feel or operate objects, read and write English.
- Physical capability to effectively use and operate various items of office equipment; such as but not limited to a personal computer, calculator, copier and fax machines.
- Work is performed indoors within a quiet to moderately noisy environment.
- Must be able to lift, carry and or push articles weighing up to 20 lbs.
MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
- Must have a high school diploma or G.E.D. from an accredited school/institution and possess a current State Fire Inspector certificate.
- Some experience as a Fire Inspector is preferred.
- Must be willing to attend courses specified by the Fire Chief or his/her representatives.
- Possess a valid driver license issued by the State of Florida.
When claiming veterans’ preference, you must provide a copy of your DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, or other acceptable documentation.
IF YOU MEET THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS AND WISH TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION, PLEASE FILL OUT AN EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION FORM WITH RESUME ATTACHED AND SEND VIA EMAIL TO HRRESUMES@HIALEAHFL.GOV OR SUBMIT IT IN PERSON TO THE CITY OF HIALEAH HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT LOCATED AT 501 PALM AVENUE, 3RD FLOOR, HIALEAH, FL 33010. MONDAY – FRIDAY 8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M
For any additional questions, please contact the City of Hialeah Human Resources Department at (305) 883-8050.
