Fire Alarm Technician / Fire Sprinkler Installer - Hybrid Role - Riverside, CA

Riverside, CA 92503

• Salary Range: $25.00 - $38.00 Hourly
• Position Type: Full Time
• Category: Construction

Fire Alarm Technician / Fire Sprinkler Installer - Hybrid Role - Riverside, CA

$25–$38 per hour DOE | Immediate Openings | Full-time

Why Join Thorpe Design?

Thorpe Design, Inc. is a fire protection contractor founded in 1986. For more than 40 years, we have built a reputation for safety, quality workmanship, professionalism, and exceptional customer service in the fire protection industry. We provide fire sprinkler, fire alarm, underground fire protection, and monitoring services for residential, multifamily, and commercial projects.

Our culture is built on Character, Professionalism, Excellence, Growth, and Teamwork. We believe our success starts with our people and are committed to creating an environment where employees are supported, respected, and encouraged to develop their skills.

Safety is at the core of everything we do. We provide ongoing safety training, routine field evaluations, and the resources employees need to perform their work safely and successfully.

Benefits

• Kaiser Medical Insurance (75% employer-paid for base plan) + optional upgraded plans
• Free Kaiser One Pass fitness membership (eligibility requirements apply)
• Employee-paid Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance options
• Dental reimbursement up to $600/year and vision reimbursement up to $100/year
• 401(k) with up to 6% company match (after 1 year)
• 8 Paid Holidays annually
• Paid Sick Time (40 hours after 90 days)
• Vacation Accrual Program (after 120 days)

Position Summary

The Fire Alarm Technician / Fire Sprinkler Installer is primarily responsible for the installation, programming, testing, inspection, troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance of fire alarm systems per NFPA 72 in commercial and multifamily construction projects. During periods of reduced fire alarm workload, this position will assist with the installation of fire sprinkler systems, including piping, sprinkler heads, valves, and related components in compliance with NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, and NFPA 13D

The ideal candidate possesses strong technical knowledge of fire alarm systems while maintaining the willingness and ability to support fire sprinkler installation operations as needed. This position plays a vital role in ensuring all life safety systems are installed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable codes and company standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Fire Alarm Responsibilities (Primary Role)

Installation & System Integration

• Install fire alarm systems in accordance with approved plans, specifications, NFPA standards, and local codes.
• Install and terminate fire alarm cabling, including initiating and notification circuits.
• Install fire alarm control panels, annunciators, power supplies, and network equipment.
• Install field devices including:
  • Smoke detectors
  • Heat detectors
  • Pull stations
  • Horns
  • Strobes
  • Horn/Strobes
  • Voice evacuation components
• Perform panel terminations, device addressing, and system startup activities.
• Verify proper installation prior to testing and commissioning.
  

Testing, Inspection & Troubleshooting

• Perform acceptance testing of newly installed systems.
• Conduct inspections and testing in accordance with NFPA 72 requirements.
• Troubleshoot wiring faults, communication failures, programming issues, and device malfunctions.
• Repair or replace defective equipment and components.
• Support warranty, deficiency, and service work.
• Assist with AHJ inspections and fire marshal acceptance testing.
• Verify system functionality and code compliance prior to project turnover.
  

Programming & Technical Support

• Program and configure fire alarm control panels and associated devices.
• Perform system modifications, additions, and upgrades.
• Maintain software backups and programming records.
• Assist with integrations involving monitoring systems and other life-safety equipment.
• Provide technical support and mentorship to junior technicians and apprentices.

Fire Sprinkler Responsibilities (Secondary Role)

When assigned, the employee will support fire sprinkler installation operations, including:

• Install fire sprinkler systems in accordance with approved plans, specifications, and applicable codes.
• Assist with layout and installation of sprinkler piping, sprinkler heads, valves, hangers, seismic bracing, and related components.
• Support installation of wet, dry, and standpipe system components.
• Read and interpret sprinkler shop drawings and installation details.
• Assist with system inspections, hydrostatic testing, and project punch list completion.
• Coordinate work with plumbers, electricians, general contractors, and other trades.
• Notify supervisors of material requirements and jobsite needs.
• Assist with code-compliant completion of sprinkler installations.
• Participate in inspections with AHJs and local fire officials as needed.

Field Leadership & Coordination

• Lead and direct small crews of technicians assigned.
• Coordinate daily activities with Project Managers, Supervisors, and Field Operations personnel.
• Assist with jobsite organization and material management.
• Attend project coordination meetings when required.
• Ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to project requirements.

Documentation

• Complete daily reports as needed/required and field documentation.
• Record installation, testing, inspection, programming, maintenance, and repair activities.
• Maintain accurate as-built drawings and redline markups.
• Document deficiencies and corrective actions.
• Ensure all project paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all company safety policies and OSHA requirements.
• Maintain a safe and clean work environment.
• Ensure compliance with:
  • NFPA 72
  • NFPA 13
  • NFPA 14
  • NFPA 20
  • NFPA 24
  • NFPA 70
  • California Fire Code
  • AHJ requirements
• Use proper PPE and safe work practices at all times.

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum 3 years of fire alarm installation, service, or programming experience.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, riser diagrams, and construction documents.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to travel to project sites throughout California.
• Willingness to perform both fire alarm and fire sprinkler installation duties as business needs require.

Preferred

• NICET Fire Alarm Systems Certification.
• Fire alarm programming experience.
• Experience with:
  • Potter
  • Fire-Lite
  • Silent Knight
  • Honeywell
• Fire sprinkler installation experience.
• Journeyman Sprinkler Fitter Card.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification.
• Familiarity with multifamily and commercial construction.

Apply Today

If you’re an experienced fire alarm technician who enjoys the technical side of life-safety systems and is open to supporting fire sprinkler installation during slower periods, we’d like to hear from you. Thorpe Design values safety, quality workmanship, and professional growth. Apply today to join our team!

Thorpe Design, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.