Fire Safety Inspector I

Introduction

This is a full-time contractual role with a total workload of 1,984 hours. Applicants must complete the application thoroughly and answer every supplemental question with care and precision; incomplete or vague responses may lead to rejection. The application itself is part of the assessment process, so qualifications should be explained in detail. If something does not apply, mark it as "N/A". A resume may be attached for context, but it does not replace the application form, and using phrases such as "see resume" in work history or questionnaire responses can result in disqualification. Candidates should also review the posting carefully for filing steps, supplemental questions, and final deadlines.

Position Details

Grade: ASTD12

Work location: Office of the State Fire Marshal, Western Regional Office, 18345 Col. Henry K. Douglas Dr., Hagerstown, MD 21740.

Role Purpose

The role exists to enforce state fire-prevention and fire-inspection laws so that lives are protected and property is safeguarded from fire and other emergency situations.

Key Duties

The inspector will examine new and existing buildings for fire safety compliance by identifying occupancy type, calculating occupant capacity, checking exit and egress features, and confirming construction type for additions or renovations to ensure alignment with state and local laws.

The position also includes inspections of facilities regulated by other state agencies, including health care settings, public and private schools, correctional institutions, day camps, and migrant camps, to verify that required fire-prevention measures are in place before licenses are issued.

In addition, the inspector will assess places of public assembly such as bars, restaurants, exhibition halls, commercial and mercantile properties, hotels, and motels to help protect public safety, and will inspect and witness permitted public fireworks displays.

The job further requires preparing written correspondence that documents code violations and accurately summarizes inspection findings in line with applicable codes and standards, as well as maintaining inspection records, files, and related documentation according to record-retention procedures. Other related duties may be assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must have completed high school from an accredited institution or hold an equivalent high school certification. No prior experience is required.

Substitution Notes

• Experience inspecting buildings and other public venues for compliance with fire-prevention and safety laws, codes, and regulations may be used in place of the education requirement on a year-for-year basis.
• Military service in the U.S. Armed Forces as a non-commissioned officer in firefighter classifications or firefighter specialty codes within fire inspection work may be substituted for the experience requirement on a year-for-year basis.

Preferred Background

Helpful qualifications include experience inspecting mixed-use buildings and holding Fire Safety Inspector certification.

Licensing and Certification

This position may involve driving a vehicle, in which case a valid Maryland motor vehicle operator’s license is required.

Special Requirements

• Work assignments are tied to a specific service area within the state.
• Before permanent appointment, candidates must complete an initial drug screening, physical examination, and full criminal background check. A criminal conviction may be grounds for rejection.
• Employees must meet NFPA 1031 standards for Fire Safety Inspector I before the probationary period ends.
• The role is subject to substance abuse testing under Maryland regulations governing illegal drug use testing.

Selection and Examination Process

Only applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be considered. Eligible candidates will be placed on a list categorized as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified, and that list may be used for at least one year from the examination date. Selection will be based on education, training, and experience relevant to the position. A supplemental qualifications form may be required, or the evaluation may be conducted from the application alone, so all relevant experience and education should be reported.

Benefits

Contractual employees working for an agency covered by the State Employees and Retiree Health and Welfare Benefits Program, with a current contract and at least 30 hours per week or an average of 130 hours per month, may qualify for subsidized health coverage for themselves and eligible dependents. The employee pays 25% of medical and prescription premiums, while the State covers the remaining 75%. Optional dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and life insurance coverage may also be selected, but the employee pays the full premium for those options.

Application Instructions

Applicants are currently limited to one uploaded file, so all required and supporting documents such as transcripts and resumes should be combined into a single file if possible. If online submission is not possible, applications may be mailed using the Maryland State Application Form.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The employer follows all applicable federal and state anti-discrimination laws and provides equal employment opportunity regardless of age, ancestry, color, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religious affiliation, belief or opinion, sex, sexual orientation, or any other protected status.

Additional Information

• Questions about the recruitment may be directed to Maryland State Police Human Resources at 410-653-4493.
• TTY users should call Maryland Relay.
• Veterans are encouraged to apply.
• The State of Maryland states that it is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state.
• Bilingual applicants and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
• Completed applications, required documents, and any addendums may be mailed to Maryland State Police - Human Resources Division, 1201 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, Maryland 21208, ATTN: Amirah VonHendricks.
• Email contact provided: amirah.vonhendricks@maryland.gov.