Fire Alarm Programmer

Ampam Parks Mechanical Inc.; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 62,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

AMPAM Parks Mechanical Inc. in the San Diego area seeks an EST-4 Fire Alarm Programmer to support fire alarm systems for large commercial projects.

You will program, test, troubleshoot, and validate EST-4 configurations, review drawings, and ensure compliance with NFPA 72 and local codes while coordinating with field technicians and project teams. This full-time role requires NICET certification, strong problem-solving, and ability to travel to job sites.

Qualifications

• Experience programming Edwards EST-4 fire alarm systems.
• Troubleshooting EST-4 systems including ground faults, comm issues, device issues, network issues, and programming conflicts.
• NICET Fire Alarm Systems certification; NICET II or higher preferred.
• Working knowledge of low-voltage communication systems and fire alarm systems.
• Ability to read and interpret fire alarm drawings, riser diagrams, and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Program EST-4 fire alarm systems for start-ups, tenant improvements, changes, service work, and closeout.
• Manage EST-4 files: download, upload, backup, maintain.
• Review drawings and specs to ensure programming matches design.
• Troubleshoot and repair EST-4 systems on site.
• Support system commissioning, pre-testing, and acceptance testing.
• Inspect, test, and install fire alarm systems per codes and manufacturer requirements.
• Coordinate with field technicians on device addressing, labeling, and network communications.
• Test initiating devices, notification appliances, control modules, and power supplies.
• Test system interfaces (elevator recall, access control interfaces, etc.).
• Participate in inspections and acceptance testing with authorities and stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate documentation: programming files, test reports, deficiency lists, as-built notes.

Skills

EST-4 programming

EST-4 troubleshooting

NICET Fire Alarm Systems

Reading drawings & specs

Communication & problem solving

Tools

Programming software

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

FULL TIME Professionals San Diego, CA, US

30+ days ago Requisition ID: 1202

Salary Range: $45.00 To $50.00 Hourly

EST-4 Fire Alarm Programmer - Poway, CA

AMPAM is a leading Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) contractor serving large-scale multifamily and commercial projects across California. With 1,500 employees across multiple business units, we are committed to delivering quality, safety, and excellence in every project. In June 2026, AMPAM acquired Coastal Fire & Integration Systems (“Coastal”), a San Diego-area provider of fire protection, low-voltage, and life safety systems. This role will join the AMPAM team as a part of our Coastal Fire & Integration Systems acquisition.

Qualifications

• Possess experience programming Edwards EST-4 fire alarm systems.
• Possess troubleshooting experience on EST-4 fire alarm systems, including ground faults, communication issues, device troubles, network issues, and system programming conflicts.
• Possess strong computer skills, including the ability to use programming software, maintain electronic files, generate reports, and communicate by email.
• Hold a NICET Fire Alarm Systems certification. NICET Level II or higher preferred.
• Possess a working knowledge of low-voltage communication systems, fire alarm systems, emergency communication systems, and related building system interfaces.
• Be able to read and interpret fire alarm drawings, riser diagrams, device layouts, sequence of operations, submittals, specifications, and as-built documentation.
• Be familiar with applicable fire alarm codes and standards, including NFPA 72, California Fire Code, local AHJ requirements, and project specifications.
• Be able to travel to job sites, arrive on time, and be organized with required safety gear, tools, laptop/programming equipment, and necessary parts or materials.
• Have strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Be able to communicate professionally with project managers, field technicians, inspectors, general contractors, customers, vendors, and AHJs.

Job Duties

• Fire alarm system programming associated with start-ups, changes, tenant improvements, system modifications, service work, and project closeout.
• Programming, downloading, uploading, backing up, and maintaining EST-4 fire alarm system files.
• Reviewing approved drawings, sequence of operations, device lists, and project specifications to ensure programming matches the intended system design.
• Performing fire alarm troubleshooting and repairs on EST-4 systems.
• Supporting system commissioning, pre-testing, final testing, and acceptance testing.
• Servicing, inspecting, testing, and installing fire alarm systems in accordance with prescribed standards, approved drawings, manufacturer requirements, and applicable codes.
• Coordinating with field technicians to verify device addressing, labeling, circuit connections, panel terminations, network communication, notification appliance operation, and system functionality.
• Testing and verifying initiating devices, notification appliances, control modules, monitor modules, relays, annunciators, power supplies, voice evacuation components, and related fire alarm equipment.
• Programming and testing system interfaces, which may include elevator recall, sprinkler monitoring, duct detector shutdown, door release, smoke control, monitoring connections, access control interface, and other building system integrations.
• Participating in inspections and acceptance testing with fire departments, AHJs, general contractors, owners, and other project stakeholders.
• Preparing and maintaining accurate documentation, including programming files, test reports, deficiency lists, as-built notes, and closeout information.
• Providing technical support to project managers, service technicians, inspection teams, and customers as needed.
• Safety: Complying with company and OSHA safety regulations to ensure safe work procedures in the workplace and on job sites.

Additional Duties

The comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this position may be in excess of what is listed herein. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Physical Requirements

This position requires visual acuity and listening ability. Individuals must be able to stand, walk, kneel, bend, crawl, and crouch for long periods of time. Individuals may be required to climb ladders, scaffolding, stairs, and access equipment in mechanical rooms, electrical rooms, rooftops, parking structures, ceiling spaces, and other job site locations.

Individuals must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull in excess of 50 pounds. This position may occasionally require individuals to work in high places, confined spaces, small cramped spaces, active construction sites, and occupied facilities.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis without future employment sponsorship