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Independent Contractor Fire Alarm Programmer Jobs in Virginia

Fire Alarm Inspector 4

Arlington, VA · On-site

$23.50 - $30.75/hr

Dean, you will join forces with more than 5,800 professionals who engineer and deploy automated ... sub-contractors. * Excellent decision-making skills. * Strong leadership skills Physical ...

Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful ... contractors. * Excellent decision-making skills. * Strong leadership skill Pay Range USD $39.00 ...

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Independent Contractor Fire Alarm Programmer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor fire alarm programmer?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Fire Alarm Programmer, you need a solid understanding of fire alarm systems, electronics, and programming logic, often supported by NICET certification or equivalent technical training. Familiarity with industry-standard fire alarm panels, proprietary programming software, and compliance with NFPA codes is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients and project teams distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are critical to ensuring reliable fire safety system performance, regulatory compliance, and client satisfaction.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Fire Alarm Programmer vs Fire Alarm Technician?

AspectIndependent Contractor Fire Alarm ProgrammerFire Alarm Technician
CredentialsTypically requires fire alarm programming certifications, technical training, and possibly state licensingRequires fire alarm system certifications, technical training, and often state licensing
Work EnvironmentWorks independently on projects, often on-site at various locationsWorks for companies, performing installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageHired as an independent contractor for specialized programming tasksEmployed by firms or contractors to install and service fire alarm systems

While both roles require fire alarm system knowledge and certifications, an Independent Contractor Fire Alarm Programmer primarily focuses on programming and configuring fire alarm systems independently, whereas a Fire Alarm Technician handles installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The programmer often works on a project basis, offering specialized services, while technicians are typically employed by companies to perform broader system work.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor fire alarm programmers, and how can they be addressed?

Independent Contractor Fire Alarm Programmers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, working with diverse fire alarm systems, and ensuring compliance with local codes and standards. Because each project may involve different manufacturers and integration requirements, adaptability and strong troubleshooting skills are essential. Clear communication with project managers, electricians, and inspectors is key to successful installations and timely project completion. Staying current with industry certifications and regular training helps address technical and regulatory challenges.

What is an independent contractor fire alarm programmer?

An Independent Contractor Fire Alarm Programmer is a professional who specializes in programming, configuring, and troubleshooting fire alarm systems on a contract basis, rather than as a full-time employee of a single company. They work with various clients, such as building owners, electrical contractors, or fire protection companies, to ensure that fire alarm systems are properly set up according to safety codes and manufacturer specifications. Their responsibilities often include system commissioning, software updates, custom programming, and providing technical support during installations or upgrades. These contractors must be knowledgeable about different brands of fire alarm panels and local fire safety regulations. They often need certifications and must stay up-to-date on industry standards.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Independent Contractor Fire Alarm Programmer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Independent Contractor Fire Alarm Programmer job openings:

Fire Alarm & Security Technician

Summit Fire & Security

Richmond, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Summit Fire & Security rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 116 rated security


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

The purpose of the Fire Alarm & Security Technician position is to install, troubleshoot, service and repair fire alarm and security systems, and other fire and life safety products with minimal supervision.  

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:

  • Knowledge of different manufactures clean agent and high-pressure suppression systems.
  • Appropriate use of required tools and test equipment such as multi-meter, megger, laptop to program, lifts, etc. to repair or replace fire alarm and suppression system components. 
  • Comprehensive working knowledge of fire alarm codes and standards.
  • Programing and software knowledge with a variety of fire alarm systems that is used when removing or replacing components.
  • Troubleshoot to determine fault or faults to include ground faults with fire alarm systems.
  • Repair or replace damaged fire alarm components such as FACP, power supply, alarm-initiating devices, etc.
  • Safely follow and perform procedures to handle, remove and replace explosive actuators such as squibs and gas cartridge actuators.
  • Communicate with internal and external customers as well as offsite monitoring companies in a professional manner.
  • Required to be punctual to required work locations and complete scheduled projects in timely manner.
  • Use Field Service Lightning to track work orders, materials needed, time on job, etc.
  • Complete documentation on work orders.
  • Understand and follow SFS's Safety program, SDS book, Hazardous communication program, policies and procedures.  Participate in weekly Toolbox talks.Employee must know where all related safety documentation is at all times on each project.
  • Ensure company provided vehicle is clean and well maintained as required by company policies.
  • Alarm Technicians will be placed in on-call status as required by location to handle emergency service requests.
  • Periodically attend seminars or similar education/training sessions to stay abreast of latest technology, codes, and standards changes.   
  • Train service technician trainees all applicable aspects of fire protection.   
  • Other duties may be assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • The qualifications listed below are representative of the elements required to perform the job successfully, however in some cases, an equivalent combination of
  • Education, Training, Certifications and Experience may meet the job qualifications.

Education, Training, Certifications:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent, required. 
  • NICET or state specific certification, preferred.

Experience, Knowledge, Skill Requirements:

  • 2 years Fire Life Safety Industry experience, specifically in Fire Alarm, required.
  • NICET Level 1 Fire Alarm Certification, required.
  • 2 years of professional computer skills, preferred.

Communication Skills:

  • Must have the ability to effectively read, write and communicate in English with employees and customers.

Systems and Software Skills:

  • 2 years using business intelligence systems, Sage 300 CRE, or similar, preferred.

Other Qualifications:

  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record required. 
  • Must be able to comply with SFS's Drug and Alcohol policy and Background screening requirements, which may also include customer specific requirements based on contractual agreement.
  • Must be able to travel 90% of the time, locally.

PHYSICAL & WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform Essential Job Duties.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to bend, ascend and descend step stools, ladders and stairs, kneel, lift <50lbs, reach above and below shoulders, stand and walk for extended periods of time.  Employee is required to see in color, close and far distances, peripheral, depth, and adjust focus. Employee will occasional be required to balance, crouch, drive, kneel, lift >50lbs, sit, stoop, twist, and work at heights.

Work Environment:

Employees will regularly be required to work outside, and be exposed to hot/cold temperatures, dust, fumes, chemicals, electrical hazards and noise. Employee will occasionally be required to work indoors in an office setting, work alone and with others. Employee must consistently wear all appropriate personal protective equipment, as required by company safety policies while visiting locations.

We are fully committed to equal opportunities for employment to all individuals regardless of race, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, familial status, and any other classification protected under the law. We are an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer.
While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position, management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary. 

#LI-AH1

Are you interested in working for the nation's leading fire protection company and beginning a rewarding and satisfying career that helps save the lives of thousands each year? Do you want to be a part of a growing and expanding team of industry experts? If so, exploring career opportunities with Summit Fire & Security may be right for you! 

Summit Fire & Security, a subsidiary of SFP Holding, Inc. (Summit Companies), is a full-service provider for fire detection, suppression, and security with a full suite of capabilities that includes design, installation, testing, inspections, and maintenance. We serve customers across many verticals on a local, regional, and national scale. We're proud of our well-deserved reputation for quality work that's completed by our talented and experienced installation workforce.  Summit Fire & Security is a dynamic organization with endless growth opportunities spanning over 70 locations in more than 20 states.

Our company is consistently recognized for service excellence in the fire protection industry. Summit Fire & Security supports trade skills and workforce development by hosting Recognized Apprenticeships and on-the-job training (OJT) programs for new career-seekers. Many members of our leadership chair NFPA code compliance committees, serve on regional safety boards, and support technical education in local schools. Summit Fire & Security supports employees in their professional development by offering continued development, training, and education by encouraging NICET and other career-advancing certifications. We offer reimbursement for certain career development programs in addition to potential bonuses for specific certifications.  We continually strive to be the Employer of Choice for highly motivated team members who want to succeed in a high-growth environment. We encourage initiative, independence, diversity, and personal career growth.
 
Demonstrating the combination of experience, knowledge, and customer service is the key to our performance and helps us achieve our goal of providing the highest quality fire protection services possible to protect lives and property.

Benefits

Summit Fire & Security offers extensive training opportunities, career advancement, competitive pay, bonus opportunities, along with an industry leading and affordable benefits package for eligible employees. Our benefits package includes:
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance 
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Match 
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Long-Term Disability - Employer Paid
  • Short-Term Disability - Employer Paid
  • Additional Voluntary Ancillary Benefits such as Accident and Hospital Indemnity 
  • Life Insurance for Team Members and Dependents
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Program
Our Core Values

PIPE
  • We are PASSIONATE about life safety
  • We have INTEGRITY (Do the right thing)
  • We work in PARTNERSHIP with our customers and community
  • We constantly strive for OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE (Do things right)

Summit Fire & Security participates in E-Verify & in alignment with our commitment to safety, we promote a drug-free workplace. Summit Fire & Security is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. 

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