Fire Alarm Programmer: Field & Life-Safety Expert

ArchKey Solutions; Clinton (MD); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

ArchKey Solutions is seeking skilled Fire Alarm Technicians to support our rapidly growing Fire & Life-Safety group. This role is responsible for programming, commissioning, testing, and servicing fire alarm and life-safety systems across commercial, industrial, mission-critical, and large-scale facilities.

You will work at project sites, collaborating with project managers, engineers, AHJs, and general contractors to ensure high-quality, code-compliant life-safety solutions.

Qualifications

• 25+ years of fire alarm installation, programming, or commissioning experience.
• Strong computer skills, including firmware/software upgrades and basic networking.
• Working knowledge of NFPA 72, IBC, and related codes.
• Ability to read and interpret shop drawings, risers, wiring diagrams, and sequence matrices.
• NICET Level II or higher preferred; additional certifications are a plus.
• Valid driver's license with a good driving record.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Program, configure, and troubleshoot fire alarm control panels and associated field devices, including firmware and software updates.
• Commission life-safety systems, including device testing, cause-and-effect verification, survivability compliance, and sequence validation.
• Configure and maintain fire alarm workstations, including database management, software updates, and network configurations.
• Perform system acceptance testing in accordance with NFPA 72, IBC, AHJ requirements, and ArchKey standards.
• Complete compliance documentation including test forms, commissioning reports, redlines, and as-built drawings.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, AHJs, and general contractors.
• Support service and troubleshooting efforts for programming, networking, and system issues.
• Diagnose and resolve wiring issues such as ground faults, opens, and shorts.

Skills

Technical aptitude

Read shop drawings

Communication

Documentation

Firmware/software upgrades

Networking basics

Problem solving

Education

NICET Level II or higher (preferred)

Job description

ArchKey Solutions is seeking skilled Fire Alarm Technicians to support our rapidly growing Fire & Life-Safety group. This role is responsible for programming, commissioning, testing, and servicing fire alarm and life-safety systems across commercial, industrial, mission-critical, and large-scale facilities.

You will work at project sites, collaborating with project managers, engineers, AHJs, and general contractors to ensure high-quality, code-compliant life-safety solutions.