In order to hire and maintain a quality workforce that reflects the diversity of the community and works well within our values-based organization, the Permitting Division of the Department of Local Services (DLS) is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Fire Marshal I.
The primary focus of this position is to perform fire protection engineering review and site inspections. Responsibilities include the review of building and land development permits, and the review of fire systems permits to ensure compliance with applicable fire and life safety codes. This includes reviewing construction documents and supporting engineering, interpreting, and applying fire codes and standards, evaluating new materials, conducting formal meetings with clients virtually, in-person and in the field and performing site inspections.
The Deputy Fire Marshal (DFM) I position works under the direction of the Fire Marshal or designee and is assigned standard reviews and inspections. Placement into the DFM I position depends on the experience, qualifications, knowledge, and skills described.
Our commitment to Equity, Racial and Social Justice
The Department of Local Services is deeply dedicated to fostering Equity, Racial and Social Justicein every aspect of our work.Our pledge is to cultivate, embrace, and celebrate the distinct experiences, viewpoints, and perspectives of our people, partners, and the communities we serve. Through this work, we dismantle systemic barriers, address inequities, and actively confront prejudices and biases. We acknowledge this journey is ongoing, and weremainsteadfast in our efforts to create a positive impact for our employees and communities alike.
Applying equity, racial and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work.
To be considered for this opportunity, you must at a minimum, demonstrate knowledge, skill, and ability to:
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Review of fire, building and related permit applications documents to ensure construction proposals meet code requirements for life and safety, including fire, building, mechanical and other applicable codes.
- Perform field inspections on new and existing construction, fire protection systems, hazardous materials, and places of assembly to ensure fire, building, and other life safety requirements are met.
- Review building and land permits to ensure adequate fire department access and fire flow are provided.
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Review fire system permits including fire sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, monitoring systems, and various other fire and life safety systems.
- Provide direct customer assistance for the public, design professionals, property owners regarding fire and building code questions, their application, and the permit process.
- Receive and respond to complaints about buildings/construction from citizens, other agencies and jurisdictions, King County Council, and Executive staff.
- Communicate on the job in ways that reflects well upon King County, the County Executive, the department, and the incumbent.
- Exhibit and support a culture of superior customer service.
- Scrupulously honor commitments made to customers and others.
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Other duties as assigned.
Values (ACTIVATE)
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Accountable
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Collaborative
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Timely
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Impactful
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Value Employees
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Accessible
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Trusted
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Equitable
The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications:
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Plans examination or inspection experience or education and experience in Fire Engineering and inspections or related field.
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Knowledge of the permitting process.
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Skilled in reading, interpreting, and explaining construction documents, specifications, codes, ordinances, and policies.
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Handle multiple competing priorities and producing quality detailed work within tight timeframes.
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Working effectively and cooperatively with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
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Must work well in a fast-paced, results oriented, team environment with the ability to think quickly and independently.
- Strong communication skills, collaborative working style, and the ability to handle stressful situations in a positive manner.
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Experience with electronic review of construction documents.
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International Fire Code Certification within six months of employment
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Basic knowledge of national, state, and local building and fire codes and standards
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Basic knowledge in the review of fire protection system.
Our Most competitive Candidate Will Also Have:
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ICC certification as a building inspector and/or plans examiner.
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Engineer or architect license or professional degree
Necessary Special Requirements:
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An offer of employment will be contingent on the success of a pre-employment physical examination.
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Must be able to lift 20lbs.
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Must have a valid Washington State driver's license and the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle throughout the county.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
First review of applicants will be on the week of August 24, 2026. Applicants who pass the initial screening will be invited to participate in a 45 mins virtual, first interview in the week of September 7, 2026.
Who can apply: This recruitment is open to all qualified applicants and may be used to fill current and or/future career service, term-limited temporary, short-term temporary, and or/special duty positions over the next six months.
First consideration will be given to current PROTEC17 members in the same classification that are eligible for lateral transfer.
Application Process: A full and complete King County application is required. You may also provide a resume and cover letter, summarizing how you meet the experience, qualifications, knowledge, and skills for the position.
Applications will be screened for clarity, completeness, and competitiveness. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more interviews. Minimum qualifications and answers to supplemental questions must be demonstrated in your application materials.
For interviewing tips, please see the STAR-LA method: star-la_interview_method.pdf
Work Schedule: The work week is normally Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., but may at times require work outside of normal business hours. This position is Non-Exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standard Act and is eligible for overtime pay, with prior supervisor approval.
We work in the office at least three days a week to foster connection and responsiveness, arrive prepared and on time, and structure meetings with clear goals and next steps.
Emergency Designation Status: This position has been designated Non-Mission Critical-Employees who staff county functions or services that may be delayed, suspended, or diverted in an emergency while essential functions are prioritized Mission Critical.
Union Membership: This position is represented PROTEC17
