FIRE ALARM TECHNICIAN

NVE; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

NVE is seeking a Fire Alarm Technician with at least five years of hands-on experience in installing, testing, inspecting, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing commercial fire detection and life-safety systems to ensure full compliance with safety codes. Core hours are 0700 to 1530, Monday through Friday, with additional hours and after-hours support as needed.

Work primarily on-site in the Washington, DC area, with duties including installation, testing, inspection, and coordination with

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on work with low-voltage wiring, electrical systems, or fire protection equipment.
• Ability to read blueprints, wiring diagrams, and electrical schematics.
• Strong customer service skills to explain system functions and report issues clearly to clients.

Responsibilities

• Install & setup fire alarm systems including mounting control panels and devices.
• Perform testing and inspection to ensure code compliance.
• Troubleshoot and repair electrical faults in fire detection systems.
• Document service logs, test results, and inventory usage.
• Coordinate with subcontractors and support system modifications as needed.

Skills

Experience with low-voltage wiring

Blueprints & schematics reading

Customer communication

Education

NICET Level I or II certification

Job description

NVE is looking for a Fire Alarm Technician with at least five (5) years of experience, skilled in installing, testing, inspecting, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing commercial fire detection and life-safety systems to ensure full compliance with safety codes. The Fire Alarm Technician is responsible for responding to service requests and performing repairs or supporting system modifications. Core hours will be between 0700 and 1530 Monday through Friday. Additional hours and after-hours support will be required, as needed.

Major Duties:

• Installation & Setup: Mount control panels, pull wires, run conduit, and install detection devices, sensors, and alarms based on blueprint schematics.
• Testing & Inspection: Perform regular functional tests on systems to verify proper operation and ensure strict compliance with all applicable codes and standards.
• Troubleshooting & Repair: Diagnose electrical faults, test circuit integrity, and replace worn or malfunctioning components.
• Code Compliance: Follow all guidelines outlined in NFPA 72, the National Electrical Code (NEC), and applicable local regulations.
• Documentation: Record all service logs, test results, and inventory usage using digital devices or written reports.
• Support specialized system modifications, major programming changes, large-scale system upgrades, and repairs requiring manufacturer-authorized service providers.
• Coordinate with fire alarm subcontracting partners as required.
• Comply with established safety guidelines and procedures.
• Support other building operations as needed.

Key Skills and Qualifications:

• Experience: 5+ years of hands-on work with low-voltage wiring, electrical systems, or fire protection equipment.
• Certifications: NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) Level I or II certification, highly desirable.
• Technical Knowledge: Ability to read blueprints, wiring diagrams, and electrical schematics.
• Communication: Strong customer service skills to explain system functions and report issues clearly to clients

Physical Effort and Working Conditions:

Ability to make repairs and installations from ladders, scaffolding, and platforms. Works with systems and equipment in hard-to-reach places requiring standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, climbing and working in tight and uncomfortable positions. The worker frequently lifts, carries, and sets up equipment that weighs 20 pounds or more. Occasionally, may lift and carry items that weigh over 80 pounds. The work is primarily inside and occasionally outside, and may be in a dirty, dusty or greasy environment. Sometimes may be required to make installations and repairs when bad smelling fumes are present.

Requirements:

• Existing HSPD-12 desirable
• NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) Level I or II certification, highly desirable.
• Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent.