Fire and Life Safety Inspector

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How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Please also include copies of your NFPA Certified Fire Inspector or NFPA Fire Inspector I or II certificate and State of Michigan Fire Inspector licensure with your application.

Job Summary

The Fire Inspector is a member of the University of Michigan Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) team. Reporting to the University Fire Marshal, this position is responsible for inspecting university facilities to ensure compliance with local, state, federal, university, and insurance requirements. The Fire Inspector also supports fire prevention, life safety, emergency response, and related compliance activities across university properties.

Responsibilities*

The Fire Inspector will promote fire and life safety across university facilities by working collaboratively with internal and external partners, including university departments, local fire departments, and the State Fire Marshal's Office.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conduct, document, distribute, and track annual fire safety inspections for assigned university-owned facilities.
• Follow up on inspection deficiencies to ensure timely corrective action.
• Serve as a liaison with the State Fire Marshal's Office on state-regulated buildings and projects.
• Support and advise EHS department areas on fire safety matters.
• Review plants for new construction and renovation projects to ensure compliance with NFPA standards and other applicable codes.
• Calculate occupant loads and capacities for assembly areas.
• Conduct site inspections before special events and review requests involving pyrotechnics, open flames, and ecological burns on university property.
• Assist with fire-related incidents and identify prevent measures to reduce future risk.
• Conduct fire cause, origin, and life safety investigations, including evidence collection, interviews, and report preparation.
• Provide fire extinguisher training as requested.
• Assist with planning and implementing fire safety awareness activities.
• Coordinate with local fire departments on emergency response preplanning and fire department training.
• Participate in fire/life safety committees, meetings, conferences, and training to maintain expertise and consult with peers and subject matter experts.
• Participate in weekly on-call rotation for emergency fire safety response.
• Support university events, including athletic events, dignitary visits, and large gatherings, during and outside normal business hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Travel routinely, both on and off campus, to perform inspections, attend meetings, participate in training, or support other fire safety responsibilities.

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree in fire science, engineering, chemical sciences, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• NFPA Certified Fire Inspector or NFPA Fire Inspector I certification and State of Michigan Fire Inspector licensure.
• 3 years of experience in the fire science field.
• Demonstrated experience working successfully in a complex organizational environment.
• Commitment to fostering an ethical, inclusive, and collegial workplace.
• Strong interpersonal, de-escalation, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to perform inspections and prepare clear, accurate reports.
• Knowledge of modern fire prevention principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment.
• Knowledge and experience applying and interpreting fire codes, life safety codes, building codes, and related standards.
• Knowledge of construction methods and materials as they relate to fire safety.
• Strong time management, organizational, and analytical skills, with the ability to manage deadlines and priorities under pressure.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications and software programs.
• Ability to pass a physical examination required for emergency response duties and use of personal protective equipment.
• Valid driver's license.

Desired Qualifications*

• NFPA Fire Inspector II Certification
• NFPA Fire Plans Examiner Certification
• 5 or more years of experience in the fire science field
• National Fire Academy or State of Michigan Fire Investigation Course

Why Work at Michigan?

Being part of something greater, of serving a larger mission of discovery and care - that's the heart of what drives people to work at Michigan. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. It's adding a purpose to your profession. Work at Michigan and become a victor for the greater good.

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off, including maternity and paternal leaves
• A retirement plan that provides immediate vesting and two-for-one matching contributions after 12 months
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance, dental, and vision plans
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Underfill Statement

This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.

Additional Information

Facilities & Operations is a positive organization dedicated to the principles of being respectful, collaborative, solutions-based, and proactive.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.