Fire Sprinkler Inspector

Job Description

UW Facilities Maintenance & Construction has an outstanding opportunity for a Fire Sprinkler Technician/ Inspector (Plumber/Pipefitter/Steam Fitter (NE S WFSE Trades)].

About this opportunity

Perform work in the operation, inspection, testing, servicing and maintenance of complex fire protection sprinkler systems and life safety systems on the University of Washington Seattle Campus. 

Work Schedule

Full time, Monday through Friday, 06:25am – 02:55pm

Position is based at the University of Washington Main Campus and is not eligible for telework.

Key Responsibilities

100%

Inspection, testing and Maintenance

• Under the direction of the supervisor and lead, perform journey-level pipefitting/ sprinkler fitting work in the maintenance, repair and construction of fire protection sprinkler systems 
• Perform and assist in five year and annual confidence testing and certification of wet and dry fire sprinkler systems, winterization of systems, with UW personnel or contractors as required 
• Maintain, repair, and inspect fire sprinkler systems, piping, tanks, pressure vessels, and compressed air systems 
• Troubleshoot complex operational problems related to fire sprinkler systems; develop and implement solutions to these problems 
• Review, initiate, and retrieve work orders using UW’s AiM Workdesk system and assigned tablet computer 
• Operate vehicles such as UW vans and trucks to transport tools, equipment and personnel to various job sites
• Operate machinery such as fork-lifts, scissor-lifts, and high rangers
• Use and operate a variety of power tools, drill presses, grinders, band saws, hand drills, pneumatic tools, small hand tools, specialized apparatuses, and test equipment 
• Read and interpret plans, blueprints, sketches and specifications; construct, lay out or plan piping assemblies with respect to walls, structures, and other obstructions, allowing for expansion, and contraction, and alignment in accordance with pipefitting practice 
• Research and coordinate technical issues related to requests for shutdowns of fire sprinkler systems and other systems to avoid or minimize disruptions of service to the campus 

Communication and Coordination

• Keep leads and supervisors informed of project status, work progress, material needs, equipment requirements, and construction scheduling impacts. 
• Coordinate with EH&S Fire Protection Engineers, department heads, campus engineering, construction coordinators, contractors, facilities trades, building occupants and other clients to schedule and plan required work for operational needs
• Respond to emergencies such as fire sprinkler systems in trouble condition in order to minimize or prevent loss of property, damage to research activities, and disruption to life-safety systems
• Perform all work in accordance with applicable safety rules, environmental regulatory requirements, and SDS documents and maintain records as required according to environmental requirements 
• Coordinate with Campus Engineering, Capital Projects Office, contractors, Facilities Services trades, building occupants, and other clients regarding status of problems and repairs 
• Field phone calls and e-mails to answer requests, questions, etc., of clients, and others 

Safety, Compliance and Training

• Must possess and maintain a valid Seattle Fire Dept AS-3 Certification and all applicable licenses and successfully retest as long as employed as a Fire Sprinkler Technician / Inspector in UW Facilities, M&C
• Have possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license recognized by the State of Washington and have a good driving record 
• Prepare Pre-Task Plans and/or Job Hazard Assessments (JHA’s) to facilitate the safe completion of all work assigned
• Support management directives and uphold the mission, vision, and values of Maintenance & Construction (M&C).
• Follow all University and Facilities Services policies and procedures
• Use safe work practices working around and be knowledgeable of asbestos and lead containing materials

Core Competencies 

• Demonstrate personal integrity and trustworthiness. 
• Manage stressful situations and changing priorities effectively. 
• Anticipate, recognize and resolve problems. 
• Be responsible and accountable. 
• Use organizational skills and provide attention to details. 
• Maintain a positive, optimistic, and success-oriented attitude. 
• Exercise professionalism, which includes being tactful and courteous. 
• Exhibit a professional work ethic. 
• Continuously promote a safe work environment. 

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimal Qualifications

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department.

• Completion of a recognized apprenticeship as a plumber/pipefitter/steamfitter, OR full journey status as a plumber/pipefitter/steamfitter in a union - or- four years' applicable work experience. Vocational training may be substituted for work experience on a year-for-year basis. Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license may be required.
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Additional Requirements

• Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license recognized by the State of Washington and have a good driving record 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experienced Fire Sprinkler Technician / Inspector working with complex and critical life-safety fire piping distribution systems, for repair, service, maintenance, and operations of equipment, components, etc. 
• Experience working independently as a Fire Systems technician for a licensed fire sprinkler contractor or as an employee of a public agency  
• Demonstrated ability to work with clients for scheduling building fire system shutdowns and inconveniences 
• Ability to work independently to improvise necessary system component repairs 
• Experience in applicable basic desktop computer skills, maintenance work request and work order programs and working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook as well as Adobe Acrobat or Bluebeam 

Conditions of employment 

• Familiarity with performing SFD Compliance Engine confidence testing
• Experience working with Washington State L&I safety rules and regulations
• Must be able to work in a diverse workforce 
• Must be able to work outdoors under all weather conditions 
• Must be able to communicate effectively with staff on portable hand-held radios with the Seattle Fire Department, University Police Department, and other Facilities Services staff 
• Must be able to lift or carry heavy objects, work in confined spaces, restricted movement areas, mechanical/electrical spaces, and around operating equipment such as boilers, fans, pumps, and transformers, etc. for extended periods of time and be able to climb ladders and work at heights 
• Must always maintain a professional appearance. This position requires the wearing of a daily uniform and personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriate to the job task and area
• Must be willing to work in BL2 and BL3 labs (shower in – shower out facilities) 
• This position is subject to callback outside normal working hours (nights, weekends, holidays) and mandatory scheduled and unscheduled overtime to respond to emergencies on an as-needed, scheduled on-call, or standby basis 
• Must be able to work in a non-smoking environment 
• Regular and predictable attendance is required 

About the team

UW Facilities (UWF) manages the University’s buildings, infrastructure and land, with more than 1,100 employees in a diverse set of roles. Our organization is comprised of multiple groups including Operations, Asset Management, Campus Energy Utilities & Operations, and other smaller units. Operations is the largest group in UWF and has the most direct responsibility for ensuring the University is ready for business each day. Operations included Building Services Department, Maintenance & Construction, Transportation Services, and Regulated Materials. https://facilities.uw.edu/units/operations

Maintenance & Construction (M&C) is responsible for general maintenance, repair, and renovations of all University of Washington (UW) main campus facilities including building interiors, exteriors, and grounds, as well as logistics, moving, and disposal of surplus equipment and furniture.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.