Position Function:
To install, maintain, coordinate, and repair complex fire sprinkler systems, water-based fire protection systems, and related life safety equipment, including collaboration with alarm technicians where systems integrate or support is needed.
Salary Grade: 14
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Operate, inspect, maintain, and perform in‑house testing of fire sprinkler systems, standpipes, fire pumps, backflow preventers, and related life‑safety equipment.
• Coordinate contracted inspections, repairs, and certifications with third‑party sprinkler vendors, insurance representatives, and the State of Mississippi Fire Marshal’s Office.
• Analyze, isolate, and assist in correcting malfunctions in mechanical and water‑based protection systems using gauges, flow meters, pressure testing equipment, and system schematics.
• Monitor vendor and in‑house work to ensure quality performance and compliance with NFPA standards and Mississippi state requirements.
• Inspect assigned jobs, tools, and equipment to verify compliance with codes, guidelines, University standards, and safety rules.
• Review, interpret, and work from blueprints, riser diagrams, hydraulic calculations, and technical drawings for new and existing sprinkler installations.
• Plan, research, and assist in the installation or modification of fire sprinkler systems in coordination with fire alarm technicians and project managers.
• Maintain and update sprinkler system records, inspection logs, impairment reports, and compliance documentation for insurance and state regulatory agencies.
• Be knowledgeable of and comply with all safety, mechanical, and fire codes, including NFPA 13, 14, 20, 25, and other applicable standards.
• Erect and work from ladders, scaffolding, lifts, and other devices as required to access sprinkler components.
• Provide technical information, advice, and operational instructions to supporting skilled trades employees.
• Assist fire alarm technicians as needed during integrated system testing and troubleshooting.
• Perform related duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibility
May be responsible for training, assisting, or assigning tasks to others. Responsibilities may include overseeing safe work practices and supporting staff during hazardous operations.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education
High School Diploma or GED
Experience
6 years of experience in fire sprinkler systems, water‑based fire protection systems, or related mechanical/life safety fields.
Substitutions
Any equivalent combination of related experience and/or education approved by the Department of Human Resources Management.
Preferred Qualifications:
Valid Commercial Driver’s License
NICET II or above in Water-Based Systems
State of Mississippi Sprinkler License or ability to obtain
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of methods, materials, tools, equipment, occupational hazards, and safety precautions of the fire protection trade
Thorough knowledge of applicable NFPA standards, state regulations, and University requirements.
Ability to climb, work at heights, and perform physical tasks safely.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Regularly involves lifting, bending, climbing, or other physical exertion. Exposed to elements including heat, cold, noise, water, dust, and chemicals. Must meet deadlines and coordinate inspections with external agencies. Job frequently requires standing, walking, reaching, climbing, balancing, talking, hearing, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Occasional lifting above 100 pounds. Vision requirements include ability to read printed and electronic information and distinguish system indicator colors.
Instructions for Applying:
Apply online at http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/ and complete a support staff application.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
