Fire Alarm Technician

Interested in a career with both meaning and growth? Whether your abilities are in direct patient care or one of the many other areas of healthcare administration and support, everyone at Parkland works together to fulfill our mission: the health and well-being of individuals and communities entrusted to our care. By joining Parkland, you become part of a diverse healthcare legacy that’s served our community for more than 125 years. Put your skills to work with us, seek opportunities to learn and join a talented team where patient care is more than a job. It’s our passion.

Primary Purpose

To provide technical expertise and support in the installation, maintenance, and repair of fire alarm systems. Oversee proper operation of Fire Detection and Suppression systems for all Parkland buildings to ensure those systems function safely, properly, and are maintained in accordance with nationally recognized standards.

Minimum Specifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Technical or trade school training preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in the installation, maintenance, repair, programming, and operation of fire detection and suppression systems.
• Relevant experience may include the installation and programming of low-voltage systems such as fire/life safety systems, access control, nurse call, paging, high-rise smoke control, and telephone systems.

Equivalent Education and/or Experience:

• May have an equivalent combination of education and/or experience in lieu of specific education and/or experience as stated above.

Certification/Registration/Licensure:

• Must have a Texas Class C Driver's License.
• Must hold one (1) of the following:
  • A current Fire Alarm License (FAL) issued by the Texas Department of Insurance State Fire Marshals Office, OR
  • NICET Level II or higher certification in Fire Alarm Systems; OR
  • Certification of factory training demonstrating successful completion of training in fire alarm system installation, programming, emergency communications systems, or maintenance and repair, preferably for the Honeywell Notifier & Onyxworks systems utilized by Parkland.

Required Tests for Placement

• N/A

Skills or Special Abilities:

• Must have a broad working knowledge of commercial conventional and addressable fire systems.
• Must be able to read and interpret electrical/electronic circuit diagrams, fire alarm control diagrams, and blueprints.
• Proficient in the use of hand tools, power tools, and electronic test equipment such as multimeters, battery analyzers, decibel meters, and communication devices. 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, including supervisors and other departments.
• Must be physically able to lift heavy loads, walk, stand for extended periods, and climb ladders.
• Must be proficient with typical office equipment such as printers, scanners and fax machines.
• Must be proficient with typical office computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint or equivalent.
• Must be physically able to lift heavy loads, walk, stand for extended periods, and climb ladders.
• Must be able to demonstrate project management skills.
• Must be able to demonstrate effective leadership skills.
• Must be able to perform special assignments and duties as requested.

Responsibilities

1. Works under limited supervision and demonstrates the ability to operate independently, exercising sound judgment in a variety of complex situations.
2. Provides technical assistance, guidance, and on-the-job training to other technicians and staff.
3. Leads and supports periodic functional testing of fire protection system components, ensuring proper operation and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
4. Oversees or performs troubleshooting to resolve complex or highly technical issues.
5.  Accurately documents all work performed on fire protection and life safety systems and maintains comprehensive records for regulatory compliance and audits.
6. Applies analytical thinking to address non-routine problems, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
7. Educates and supports Parkland staff in understanding the operation, maintenance, and safety requirements of fire alarm and detection systems.
8. Identifies opportunities to improve processes, enhance customer satisfaction, and increase departmental efficiency. Recommends improvements to the supervisor, implements approved changes, and monitors outcomes to support Parklands mission and enhance departmental performance and effectiveness.
9. Maintains up-to-date knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, accreditation standards, and internal policies affecting fire and life safety systems within Parkland facilities. Develops and implements effective internal controls to ensure compliance with applicable laws, accreditation standards, and federal, state, and private health plan requirements. Proactively seeks guidance when needed to ensure full understanding and adherence.
10. Stays abreast of the latest developments, advancements, and trends in the field of fire protection and life safety by attending seminars and workshops and reading professional journals. Applies newly acquired knowledge to enhance work practices and system performance.

Parkland Health and Hospital System prohibits discrimination based on age (40 or over), race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, disability, national origin, marital status, political belief, or veteran status. As part of our commitment to our patients and employees’ wellness, Parkland Health is a tobacco and smoke-free campus.