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Fire Systems Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fire Alarm Tester

Whittier, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

System Testing: Perform detailed tests of all components of fire alarm systems, such as smoke detectors, pull stations, automatic closing assemblies, signaling devices, etc. to ensure they are in ...

Showing results 21-40

Fire Systems information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in fire systems, and why are they important?

To thrive in Fire Systems, you generally need a background in fire protection engineering, electrical or mechanical systems, and relevant certifications like NICET or NFPA. Familiarity with design software (such as AutoCAD), fire alarm panels, and compliance with fire codes and standards is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure that fire systems are properly designed, installed, and maintained for maximum safety and regulatory compliance.

What are fire systems?

Fire systems are integrated sets of equipment and technologies designed to detect, alert, and suppress fires in buildings or other environments. These systems typically include fire alarms, smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers, all working together to protect people and property. Properly installed and maintained fire systems are crucial for early detection and effective response to fire emergencies, helping to minimize damage and save lives.

Is fire protection a good career?

Fire systems technicians and professionals play a critical role in installing, maintaining, and inspecting fire protection equipment such as alarms, sprinklers, and suppression systems. The field offers stable employment, opportunities for certification, and the chance to work in various environments including commercial, industrial, and residential settings.

What are some typical challenges faced when maintaining and troubleshooting fire alarm systems in commercial buildings?

Professionals working with fire systems in commercial buildings often encounter challenges such as navigating complex wiring layouts, integrating new technology with legacy systems, and ensuring compliance with constantly evolving safety regulations. Additionally, coordinating with building management and other contractors during system upgrades or repairs can require strong communication and project management skills. Staying up-to-date with the latest fire codes and manufacturer specifications is essential to ensure both safety and legal compliance.

What is the difference between Fire Systems vs Fire Alarm Technicians?

AspectFire SystemsFire Alarm Technicians
CertificationsNFPA certifications, state licensesNFPA certifications, state licenses
Work EnvironmentDesign, install, maintain fire protection systemsInstall, troubleshoot, repair fire alarm systems
Industry UsageFire protection companies, industrial facilitiesSecurity companies, building maintenance
Job FocusWhole fire suppression systemsFire alarm detection systems

Fire Systems professionals focus on designing, installing, and maintaining comprehensive fire protection systems, including sprinklers and suppression devices. Fire Alarm Technicians specialize in installing and repairing fire alarm detection systems. While both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, their specific responsibilities differ, with Fire Systems covering broader fire safety solutions and Fire Alarm Technicians concentrating on alarm systems.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Systems jobs in California? For Fire Systems jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Fire Systems jobs? Cities in California with the most Fire Systems job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Systems job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Fire Life Safety Technician I

USC Gould School of Law

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

About USC FPM

FPM (formerly named Capital Construction & Development / Facilities Management Services) is responsible for planning, developing, and maintaining the breadth of the facilities at USC, and is also dedicated to creating a safe environment for our USC community. Woven into every service, safety is of upmost importance. As FPM, this group of innovative and talented professionals provide high quality facilities construction, operations and maintenance services at USC and serve as dedicated stewards of USC and FPM core values. FPM values employee recognition, accountability, collaboration, respect, and trust.

Come and join the FPM team - a team that works as trusted partners shaping an environment of innovation and excellence. Apply today!

The Fire Life Safety Technician I:

Perform routine inspections, testing, and preventative maintenance of fire alarm systems to ensure that they function effectively and meet NFPA standards.

Job Accountabilities:

  • Tests fire alarm systems according to current fire codes and regulations.

  • Inspect fire alarm systems before, during and after construction projects

  • Coordinates with Monitoring Station to avoid response to test

  • Run Test on fire alarm system and report to monitoring station

  • Follow and maintain a highly structured testing schedule

  • Complete assigned Reg 4 test on time

  • Candidate should have the ability to accurately discern, and document deficiencies found during an inspection and produce reports accurately

  • Enters fire alarm testing documentation into the fire system database

  • Performs preventive maintenance on fire systems.

  • Troubleshoots and repairs fire alarm systems

  • Coordinates with contractors for fire system additions and changes

  • Enables and disables fire systems for construction projects, events and maintenance

  • Assists with fire drills and evacuation exercises

  • Maintains stock levels and storage of new and used fire system equipment

  • Keeps accurate records of materials and time. Ensures proper use of resources and time

  • Responds to fire/life safety system activations, alarm, trouble and supervisory calls

  • Stands in as fire watch when fire systems are impaired

  • Maintains current knowledge on existing and pending legislation within the industry

  • Practices safe driving, ensures company vehicles are kept clean and safe

  • Provides customer service and user training as required

Minimum Qualifications:

  • 1 year of previous work experience in fire alarm system inspections or similar trade within fire protection industry

  • Possess comprehensive knowledge of fire alarm systems and sprinkler systems

  • Knowledge and understanding NFPA standards

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Valid CA driver's license required with a minimum of 2 years of driving experience. Position will participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pull Notice System. A copy of DMV record will be required as a final condition of employment. For more information, please visit thepolicy website.

  • Must be able to read blueprints, diagrams, operation/product manuals, software/system programs

  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively

  • Be proficient in completing and legible paperwork

  • Must be punctual, have excellent work ethics and strong organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 2+ years of previous work experience in fire alarm system inspections or similar trade within fire protection industry

  • AS Degree preferred

  • Demonstrated mechanical and electrical skills

  • Experience with Notifier, Edwards, and or Simplex

  • REG 4 Basic and Complex Fire Life Safety Systems Certification

  • NICET Fire Alarm Systems Level 1 preferred

Preferred Certifications:

  • National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Fire Alarm Systems Level 1

  • Los Angeles Fire Department Chiefs Regulation 4: Basic and Complex Fire Life Safety Systems Certification

Other Job Factors:

  • Must obtain NICET Fire Alarm Systems Level 1 within 1 year

  • Flexible Work Schedule and overtime required

  • May be required to work various shifts such as early mornings, evenings, and weekends to meet the University requirements

  • Able to work in unusual and sometimes difficult positions such as climbing ladders, scaffolding and high lift equipment up to 40 feet, working within ducts, crawl spaces, above ceilings, etc.

Benefits:

USC's Commitment to You: We offer an excellent package of benefits and programs including, but not limited to:

  • Tuition assistance for you and your family

  • Comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance options

  • 403b retirement account with matching 5% contribution by USC

  • 50% subsidy off Metro, LADOT, and Metrolink passes

Hourly Range:

The hourly rate for this position is $28.00/hr. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.


#LI-KI1

Perform routine inspections, testing, and preventative maintenance of fire alarm systems to ensure that they function effectively and meet NFPA standards.
Minimum Qualifications:
1 year of previous work experience in fire alarm system inspections or similar trade within fire protection industry
Possess comprehensive knowledge of fire alarm systems and sprinkler systems
Knowledge and understanding NFPA standards
High school diploma or equivalent
Valid CA driver's license required with a minimum of 2 years of driving experience. Position will participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pull Notice System. A copy of DMV record will be required as a final condition of employment. For more information, please visit thepolicy website.
Must be able to read blueprints, diagrams, operation/product manuals, software/system programs
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively
Be proficient in completing and legible paperwork
Must be punctual, have excellent work ethics and strong organizational skills
Preferred Qualifications:
2+ years of previous work experience in fire alarm system inspections or similar trade within fire protection industry
AS Degree preferred
Demonstrated mechanical and electrical skills
Experience with Notifier, Edwards, and or Simplex
REG 4 Basic and Complex Fire Life Safety Systems Certification
NICET Fire Alarm Systems Level 1 preferred

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
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  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
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If you are a current USC employee, please apply to thisย ย USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$147694.htmld