Deputy Fire Inspector - Code Specialist

Position Overview: The Harris County Fire Marshal's Office is seeking a highly knowledgeable and motivated Deputy Fire Inspector – Advanced who possesses extensive knowledge and expertise in fire code compliance and plan review processes, with advanced proficiency in the International Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and standards. This role is integral to safeguarding life safety in Harris County by conducting detailed plan reviews, evaluating alternative design proposals, and serving as a subject matter expert on fire code issues. The Specialist will also collaborate with developers, design professionals, and internal partners, and maintain strong relationships with state and national code development organizations.

Duties and Responsibilities: Conduct technical reviews of building and site development plans for compliance with the IFC, NFPA standards, and Harris County amendments. Evaluate and provide recommendations on alternative methods, code modifications, and code interpretations submitted for review. Support the application of fire and life safety codes through code interpretation during plan reviews and inspections, working with recognized partners such as ICC and NFPA as needed. Collaborate with architects, engineers, developers, and permitting staff to resolve complex code compliance issues. Serve as a liaison between the Fire Marshal's Office and other Harris County departments, including Engineering, to coordinate on matters related to the Harris County Fire Code. Maintain active communication and networking with ICC, NFPA, and local stakeholders involved in code discussions. Participate in code amendment processes, code update initiatives, and process development. Utilize a variety of computer applications and databases to manage reviews, track issues, and document code determinations. Respond to code-related inquiries from the public and stakeholders in a professional and timely manner. Other Duties and Responsibilities: Perform as a member of an Incident Management Team during emergency or disaster situations. Maintain situational awareness of all HCFMO activities. Serve on committees, boards, or other teams as assigned by the Fire Marshal or designee. Perform assigned tasks safely, and document and report initial accidents, injuries, or health exposures in accordance with accepted safety practices and HCFMO policy.

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work: Regular Full-time 40-Hours per Week | On-Call schedule May include nights, weekends & holidays

HARRIS COUNTY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: Harris County offers a highly competitive benefits program, featuring a comprehensive group health plan and defined benefit retirement plan. Health & Wellness Benefits include Medical Coverage, Dental Coverage, Vision Coverage, Wellness Plan, Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Healthcare Flexible Spending Account, Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account. Paid Time Off (PTO): Ten (10) days of vacation leave per year (accrual rate increases after 5 years of service), Eleven (11) County-observed holidays, One (1) floating holiday per year, Paid Parental Leave, Sick Leave. Retirement Savings Benefit 457 Deferred Compensation Plan, Professional learning & development opportunities, Retirement pension (TCDRS defined benefit plan), Flexible work schedule, METRO RideSponsor Program.

Requirements: High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent from an accredited educational institution. Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) Fire Inspector Basic Certification AND Minimum of (1) one year of experience in fire code enforcement, plan review, or related regulatory enforcement. Valid State of Texas Class C driver's license at date of hire. Mastery-level knowledge of recognized standards, codes, and laws for fire inspections and identification of fire and life safety hazards. Strong knowledge of fire safety codes, regulations, and standards. Excellent observational and analytical skills. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Proficiency with computer applications and inspection tools. Knowledge of Incident Management, such as the National Incident Management System (NIMS). Knowledge of plan examination and the ability to obtain TCFP certification as a plan examiner within one year. No convictions, probation, or deferred adjudication for any Felony or Class A Misdemeanor. No convictions, probation, or deferred adjudication for a Class B Misdemeanor within the previous 10 years. No open arrest for any criminal offense. No Family Violence conviction. Preferred: Five (5) years of experience in fire code enforcement, plan review, or related regulatory enforcement. Extensive working knowledge of the International Fire Code (IFC) and relevant NFPA codes and standards. NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist (or ability to obtain within one year of employment). Texas Fire Commission Plans Examiner (or ability to obtain within one year of employment). ICC Fire Plans Examiner certification (or ability to obtain within one year of employment). Strong working knowledge of digital tools, including plan review platforms, electronic permitting systems, and Microsoft Office applications. Proven ability to build effective working relationships and collaborate with regulatory agencies and professional organizations.

Salary: $37.90 - $43.20 Hourly

Application Deadline: 2026-11-13