How to Be Fire Equipment Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 26, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Cause: Fire Equipment Technician inspect, maintain and repair a wide range of fire protection equipment such as fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, fire alarms, emergency lighting and other safety equipment. Effect: This helps to ensure that emergency personnel have the necessary tools and equipment available to respond quickly and effectively in the event of a fire, thereby reducing the potential for injury, death and property loss. Additionally, this service helps increase public safety awareness by ensuring that the systems are functioning properly, which can help reduce the risk of fire-related incidents.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Fire equipment technicians are required to have some formal education in order to work in the field.
Pursue postsecondary education in fire science or a related field. Many fire equipment technicians obtain an associates degree in fire science, fire protection, or a related field.
Obtain certification. Many employers require fire equipment technicians to be certified. Certification can be obtained through the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) or the International Fire Equipment Technician Association (IFETA).
Get on-the-job training. On-the-job training is an important part of becoming a fire equipment technician. This training can be obtained from a local fire department or from a private company that specializes in fire equipment installation and maintenance.
Obtain additional certifications or licenses. Depending on the state in which you are working, you may need to obtain additional certifications or licenses. These may include hazardous materials certification, high-pressure boiler certification, or other specialized certifications.

In order to stay updated and competent as a Fire Equipment Technician, it is important to stay up to date on the latest technology, regulations, and industry standards. This includes attending seminars and workshops, reading industry news and publications, networking with peers, and taking continuing education courses. By doing so, technicians can stay informed of the latest advances in equipment and safety techniques, as well as any changes in regulations.

Staying abreast of the latest trends and developments in the field is essential for keeping fire equipment functioning properly and safely. staying updated and competent will help technicians better diagnose and troubleshoot problems, allowing them to provide more effective solutions to their customers.

You may want to check Fire Prevention Specialist, Forest Firefighter, and Wildland Firefighter for alternative.

Job Description

Perform routine maintenance and repairs on firefighting equipment, such as portable and fixed fire extinguishers, fire hoses, smoke alarms and sprinkler systems.
Inspect, diagnose and troubleshoot fire safety equipment to ensure proper functioning.
Install, configure, operate and maintain fire safety systems, including fire alarms, smoke detectors and sprinkler systems.
Perform safety tests on fire equipment and systems to ensure they are up to code and in compliance with local, state and federal regulations.
Maintain service records and document routine maintenance activities to comply with industry regulations.
Provide technical support to customers and answer inquiries related to fire safety equipment and systems.
Train personnel on proper use of firefighting equipment and systems.
Provide emergency response services for fire and other hazardous situations.
Fabricate parts for fire safety equipment when needed.
Monitor inventory of supplies and order replacement parts when necessary.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of fire protection systems, including NFPA standards and codes.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
Familiarity with a variety of hand tools, power tools, and specialized test equipment.
Understanding of the principles of electricity, hydraulics, and pneumatics.
Ability to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair fire protection systems.
Ability to maintain accurate records of inspections and service.
Excellent customer service and communication skills.
Ability to lift heavy objects and climb ladders as needed.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
Knowledge of safety protocols related to working with hazardous materials and high voltages.

Having the right skill set is essential for a Fire Equipment Technician. A Fire Equipment Technician must possess mechanical and technical skills in order to maintain, install, diagnose, and repair fire suppression systems. This includes knowledge of sprinkler systems, foam systems, fire pumps, fire hydrants, fire alarms, and other related components.

It is also important for a Fire Equipment Technician to have strong problem-solving skills as well as good communication and customer service skills in order to effectively interact with clients. Furthermore, a Fire Equipment Technician must be reliable and organized in order to complete their tasks efficiently. All these skills are necessary for a Fire Equipment Technician to be successful in their job and ensure that fire suppression systems are functioning properly, thereby helping to protect lives and property.

Firefighter/Driver Operator, Fire Recruit, and Firefighter are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have troubleshooting, installing, and maintaining fire protection systems?
What is your experience with fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers, foam, and water mist systems?
Describe a time when you identified an issue with a fire protection system and how you resolved it.
How do you keep up to date with the latest safety codes and standards for fire protection systems?
Do you have experience in servicing and repairing fire alarm systems?
Describe your experience performing preventive maintenance on fire protection equipment.
How familiar are you with NFPA standards and codes related to fire protection systems?
What challenges have you faced in the past when working on fire protection systems?
How do you handle difficult customer situations related to fire protection systems?
Describe a project you have completed successfully involving fire protection systems.

Common Tools in Industry

Fire Extinguisher. A device used to extinguish fires, typically using a chemical or water-based agent. (eg: ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher)
Fire Hose. A flexible pipe used to transport water to a fire. (eg: 2. 5-inch Double Jacket Fire Hose)
Fire Pump. A device used to generate and supply pressure to the fire suppression system. (eg: Diesel-Powered Fire Pump)
Fire Sprinkler System. A system that distributes water automatically over a fire-prone area. (eg: NFPA 13-Compliant Fire Sprinkler System)
Smoke Detector. A device used to detect smoke and alert occupants of a potential fire hazard. (eg: Photoelectric Smoke Detector)
Heat Detector. A device used to detect the presence of heat and alert occupants of a potential fire hazard. (eg: Fixed Temperature Heat Detector)
Fire Alarm Panel. An electronic control panel used to monitor, control, and activate the various components of the fire safety system. (eg: Addressable Fire Alarm Control Panel)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Fire Sprinkler Association
National Fire Protection Association
International Association of Fire Chiefs
Fire Apparatus Manufacturers' Association
National Volunteer Fire Council
International Fire Service Training Association
Fire Equipment Manufacturers' Association
International Society of Fire Service Instructors
National Fire Service Advisory Council
National Association of State Fire Marshals

We also have Firefighter/EMT, Fire Protection Engineer, and Fire Hydrant Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Fire Alarm System. A system designed to detect the presence of smoke or extreme heat in a building and sound an alarm to alert the occupants.
Sprinkler System. A system of pipes and nozzles that is used to control the spread of fire by spraying water onto the affected area.
Fire Extinguisher. A handheld device used to extinguish small fires.
Fire Hose. A large tube filled with water that is used to fight large fires.
Fire Hydrant. An outdoor water source connected to a water supply line, used to fill hoses in order to fight fires.
Fire Suppression System. An automated system designed to control and suppress fires.
Heat Detector. A device used to detect the presence of heat in a building and trigger an alarm.
Smoke Detector. A device used to detect the presence of smoke in a building and trigger an alarm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Fire Equipment Technician?

A Fire Equipment Technician is a professional responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of fire protection equipment such as sprinkler systems, alarms, and extinguishers.

What qualifications are needed to become a Fire Equipment Technician?

Fire Equipment Technicians typically need to have an associate's degree in fire protection technology or a related field, as well as a valid driver's license and certifications related to their specific field.

What type of work do Fire Equipment Technicians typically do?

Fire Equipment Technicians typically inspect and test fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, alarms, and other related equipment, to ensure they are in proper working order. They also perform preventative maintenance, repairs, and installations.

How much does a Fire Equipment Technician typically earn?

Fire Equipment Technicians typically earn an average salary of between $37,000 and $51,000 per year.

What other roles do Fire Equipment Technicians typically have?

Fire Equipment Technicians may also be responsible for providing training and instruction on fire safety procedures, performing fire inspections and audits, and developing emergency response plans.

Web Resources

Fire Protection Technician Associate Degree | Madison College madisoncollege.edu
Firefighter Technician | Mid-State Technical College www.mstc.edu
Fire Protection Technician Program - Mid-State Technical College www.mstc.edu