City of San Rafael

Job Class Specification

Job Title: Fire Prevention Inspector I/II (non-safety)

DEFINITION:

Reviews, inspects and investigates for fire prevention-related activities; inspects fire protection systems, construction sites, occupancies, structures, buildings, and storage and usages to ensure an appropriate level of fire protection and compliance with applicable state and local ordinances, and with nationally recognized fire protection standards; investigates and reviews a variety of fire-related issues; enforces the fire- and building-related codes and other aspects of the municipal code relating to construction, code enforcement, and building inspection; conducts field inspections for compliance with fire and life safety standards; conducts plan reviews; and does related work as assigned.

This position receives direct supervision from the Deputy Fire Marshal.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Fire Prevention Inspector I:

This is the entry level class in the Fire Prevention Inspection series. This class is distinguished from the Fire Prevention Inspector II by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within the series, which do not require prior specialized experience. Generally, work is supervised and reviewed both during performance and upon completion under the direction of the Fire Inspector II or the Plans Examiner positions. Since this class is typically an entry level position, employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience.

Fire Prevention Inspector II:

This is the journey level class within the Fire Prevention Inspector series. Employees within this class are distinguished from the Fire Prevention Inspector I by the performance of the full range of fire prevention inspection duties and operate under general supervision. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the lower class of Fire Prevention Inspector I, or when filled from the outside, require substantial prior fire prevention training and inspection experience.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Fire Prevention Inspector I:

  • Interpret and enforce provisions of fire prevention and fire safety laws, City and State ordinances and other regulations.
  • Perform periodic inspections of new and existing buildings, structures and installations requiring fire clearances; identify fire hazards; recommend corrective actions; perform follow-up inspections to see that corrective actions have been taken.
  • Investigate complaints pertaining to violation of fire prevention laws; issue correction orders as necessary.
  • Perform tests on water flow, sprinkler and fire alarms and elevator return systems.
  • Prepare accurate records and reports.