FIRE AND BUILDING SAFETY COORDINATOR

Job Summary: 

Coordinate the daily operations of the Office of Environmental Health & Safety, focusing on the testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, and other life safety equipment. Ensure proper functionality of equipment and systems, and coordinate inspections of all College buildings and facilities. Facilitate College compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and codes. Perform and assist with operational tests of fire alarm and suppression equipment. Assist in developing emergency procedures. Develop and conduct fire safety training sessions for employees and students. Perform life safety duties to prevent injury and protect the lives of Ithaca College students, staff, faculty, and property. Maintain files and records. Prepare and submit required reports to federal, state, and local governing agencies.

The incumbent is considered essential personnel and may be required to report to work or remain at work without advance notice, depending on the nature and urgency of the situation.

Supervision: 

This position reports to the Associate Director of Environmental Health and Safety. This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but will provide day-to-day direction and guidance to the Fire Protection Specialists assigned to Environmental Health & Safety as appropriate.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Collaborate with the Associate Director of Environmental Health and Safety to develop and implement both short-term and long-term plans to ensure the proper operation and maintenance of fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, and life safety equipment. Ensure compliance with college policies, applicable laws, fire and building codes, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.               
2. Coordinate the work of the Fire Protection Specialists by delegating tasks according to established plans, providing guidance and direction for inspections, tests, and maintenance, and ensuring these activities are completed as scheduled. Ensure incident reports are completed. 
3. Coordinate and administer the implementation of the Public Safety monthly building and life safety equipment inspection program. Ensure inspections are scheduled with Security Officers and completed on time. Address any issues identified by coordinating with Environmental Health & Safety, the Office of Facilities, or outside contractors as appropriate. 
4. Develop, implement, and coordinate a program for inspecting residence hall rooms and apartments, as well as conducting monthly inspections of buildings, grounds, and life safety equipment.
5. Perform and assist with inspections and operational tests of all Ithaca College fire suppression equipment, including fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, sprinkler pumps, fire hydrants, standpipe systems, and fire extinguishers. Coordinate and conduct regular fire drills in accordance with applicable codes and regulations. 
6. Coordinate services from contracted companies for the maintenance and repair of fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, and life safety equipment. Serve as the liaison with fire alarm and fire suppression system contractors, ensuring all contractual requirements are met.
7. Conduct inspections, operational tests, and maintenance or replacement of safety equipment and devices, including AEDs. Provide guidance and direction to Student Auxiliary Safety Patrol personnel performing monthly safety equipment inspections as needed.
8. Respond to inquiries and provide consultation to the College community on all applicable building, fire safety, and life safety code issues. Investigate reports of fire alarms, safety hazards, smoke, explosions, and gas or chemical leaks, and initiate appropriate corrective actions. Prepare reports and provide recommendations as required. Meet with appropriate personnel to discuss emergency incidents.
9. Complete incident reports as required and forward them to the Associate Director of Environmental Health and Safety for approval. 
10. Prepare the necessary reports for federal, state, and local regulatory agencies. Submit these reports to the Associate Director of Environmental Health and Safety for review before forwarding them to the appropriate agency as required.
11. Regularly inform and update the Associate Director of Environmental Health and Safety on all fire safety, building code, operational, and administrative issues.
12. Perform inspections of all Ithaca College buildings and grounds with representatives from the Town of Ithaca and New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) to ensure compliance with applicable fire prevention and building codes. Issue correspondence and communicate with the campus community to initiate appropriate corrective measures, provide necessary follow-up, and file service requests with the Office of Facilities as needed.
13. Collaborate with the Associate Director of Environmental Health and Safety and the Office of Facilities to interpret and implement New York State Fire and Building Codes, as well as the National Electrical Code, for existing college occupancies, new construction, and renovations. Review plans and provide guidance on fire prevention and building code issues related to construction and renovation projects.
14. Develop and conduct fire safety training sessions for staff, faculty and students; maintain related records. 
15. Assist the Associate Director of Environmental Health and Safety with fire protection and life safety activities for special events, including conducting pre-event inspections, consulting on code compliance and setup safety, and coordinating fire protection staff for events such as athletic competitions, commencement, concerts, exhibitions, and public assemblies. 
16. Review and assist in preparing bid specifications and coordinate the installation or renovation of fire protection systems. Provide budget recommendations and assist in budget administration as requested. 
17. Respond to medical and other campus emergencies, providing medical assistance and fire response at special events such as commencement, orientation, concerts, sporting events and other campus functions during the assigned shifts and after hours as directed. Attend required first-aid and CPR training programs to attain and maintain certifications. 
18. Assist and collaborate with Patrol Operations staff as needed, determining appropriate actions and assignments based on area of expertise and experience. 
19. Acquire and continuously update knowledge of all electrical and technical aspects of Ithaca College’s fire protection systems.

Qualifications: 

Associate’s degree with a minimum of 4 years of related experience in fire prevention and/or life safety service, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Code Enforcement Official Certification. Demonstrated knowledge of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) laws and reporting requirements. Current 24-hour Hazardous Waste Operations (HAZWOPER) certificate and the ability to obtain first-aid and CPR certification. Proven ability to develop and deliver training and informational sessions. Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. Ability to respond to emergency situations during and after normal business hours. Valid New York State Driver’s License.

Work Environment:

Most of the incumbent’s work is conducted in generally accessible, safe, indoor, and outdoor environments. They may need to use fire suppression and hazardous waste containment equipment in emergencies, including those involving fire or chemical leaks. The incumbent must respond to emergency situations and fire protection system issues during and after normal business hours. They will also need to climb ladders to test and inspect equipment. Additionally, the incumbent is required to visit other Ithaca College offices or work sites and must be able to walk, drive, or arrange alternative transportation.

This position is 40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year.

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants must apply online and attach a resume, cover letter, and list of three professional references. Questions about online applications should be directed to the Office of Human Resources at (607) 274-8000 or humanresources@ithaca.edu.  

Ithaca College is committed to building a diverse academic community and encourages members of underrepresented groups to apply. Experience that contributes to the diversity of the college is appreciated.

Visa sponsorship is not provided for this position.

Hiring Range:

$28 to $30 per hour, commensurate with qualifications and experience.  

We pride ourselves on providing our benefit-eligible employees with comprehensive benefits, including:
    • Healthcare including vision and dental
    • Generous Paid Time Off Policies
    • 403B Retirement Savings Plan with Matching Employer Contribution 
    • EAP
    • Flexible Work Plans
    • Educational Benefits
    • Career-Enhancing Trainings
    • For an overview of our benefit offerings, please visit https://www.ithaca.edu/human-resources/employee-benefits-wellness

In an effort to promote campus safety and the security of College resources, Ithaca College will, consistent with the requirements of the law and prudent practices, conduct criminal background investigations per College policy.   This position is subject to a criminal background check. All offers of employment are contingent upon review of the criminal background check.

Salary : $28 - $30