Firefighter/EMT Belmont, North Carolina

Overview

General Overview of Duties

This position involves specialized public safety responsibilities focused on fire prevention and code compliance within the City. The role includes conducting inspections, enforcing fire regulations, delivering safety education, investigating fire incidents, and supporting overall fire prevention initiatives.

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Position Summary

Employees in this role handle a broad range of duties related to fire inspection, prevention, and investigation activities. Responsibilities include ensuring compliance with applicable state and local fire codes, regulations, and standards, as well as reviewing plans and supporting community education efforts. Inspections are conducted across various occupancies such as commercial businesses, industrial sites, schools, healthcare facilities, new developments, and occasionally residential properties.

This position may also involve collaboration with the County Fire Marshal’s Office on fire investigations and participation in emergency response activities, including fire suppression, rescue, and EMS calls when needed. The work requires independent judgment and decision-making, particularly when identifying hazards and enforcing compliance.

Due to frequent interaction with the public, strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and diplomacy are essential. The role includes exposure to potentially hazardous conditions such as extreme temperatures, fire environments, chemicals, confined spaces, and other occupational risks. Work is performed under general supervision and evaluated through performance reviews, reports, and direct observation.

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Key Responsibilities

Core Duties

• Conduct fire and life safety inspections across commercial, industrial, and public facilities to identify hazards and ensure code compliance.

• Enforce applicable fire codes, including state building codes and recognized safety standards; issue citations or stop-work orders when necessary.

• Perform follow-up inspections to verify corrective actions have been completed.

• Test and evaluate fire protection systems for proper functionality.

• Review development and construction plans to confirm adherence to fire safety requirements, including access routes and hydrant placement.

• Provide fire safety education to businesses, organizations, and the public.

• Prepare reports, maintain inspection records, and document findings accurately.

• Issue permits related to fire safety (e.g., fireworks, compressed gases) in accordance with regulations.

• Assist with billing processes for inspections and related services.

• Participate in emergency response operations such as fire suppression, rescue, and EMS support.

• Support fire prevention programs and assist in planning community outreach initiatives.

• Coordinate fire investigations with external agencies, including law enforcement.

• Supervise and guide part-time inspection personnel, assigning tasks and monitoring performance.

Additional Duties

• Participate in departmental training programs.

• Perform other related tasks as assigned.

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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of fire prevention codes, NFPA standards, and local ordinances.

• Knowledge of construction practices, commercial operations, and associated fire hazards.

• Ability to identify and assess fire risks effectively.

• Proficiency in fire suppression, rescue techniques, hazardous materials response, and EMS support.

• Familiarity with fire prevention strategies and the ability to educate others on safety practices.

• Effective communication, public speaking, and customer service skills.

• Ability to interpret and enforce regulations fairly and consistently.

• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical abilities.

• Proficiency in report writing and basic information technology systems.

• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with colleagues, officials, and the public.

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Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks such as climbing, lifting, crawling, and operating equipment.

• Capability to handle moderate physical workloads, including lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally.

• Adequate vision and coordination to conduct inspections and operate vehicles or equipment.

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Education and Experience

Preferred qualifications include an associate degree in fire science or a related field, along with relevant coursework in fire inspection or prevention. Candidates should also have substantial experience in fire service or inspection roles, or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience.

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Special Requirements

• Must obtain Fire Inspector Level III certification within six months of employment.

• Must achieve Fire Education certification within two years of hire.