CRAFT TECHNICIAN - SR. CRAFT TECHNICIAN - Security & Alarms at Southwest Research Institute

Who We Are:

Our Facilities' Security and Alarms department at Southwest Research Institute oversees campus fire safety and security systems. We maintain fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and collaborate with contractors on inspections to ensure compliance with industry standards. Additionally, we work closely with divisions and campus security to install and manage electronic access systems, enhancing the overall security of our facilities.

Objectives of this Role:

• Provide excellent customer service, responding to client inquiries in a timely professional manner.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating strong collaboration skills.
• Comply with all safety regulations and maintain a safe work environment.
• Maintain a fully operational fire sprinkler system in our campus buildings to keep in compliance with Factory Mutual's requirements.
• Willingness to stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies, continually enhancing your skills and knowledge.
• Must be punctual, a problem solver, and have a positive attitude. Willing to cross-train and work with other trades if necessary.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to learn quickly.
• Install, maintain, and repair various low voltage systems, such as fire alarms, notifier systems, access control systems, and CCTV.
• Conduct regular inspections and tests of systems to ensure proper operation.
• Experience with maintaining special systems such as Clean Agent and other suppression systems is preferred, but not required.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

• Assist with general maintenance on low voltage electronic alarm systems such installing and programming fire and access panels, replacing batteries, installing, repairing or replacing damaged cabling.
• Document daily activities through our electronic helpdesk program and keep management updated throughout the day on work progress and completion.
• Maintain a daily truck inspection log and monthly reports on testing fire pumps, inspecting fire risers and the riser rooms.
• Assist divisions with project work and escort contractors when necessary. Assist other departments within Div. 42 when asked.
• Assist ITC with maintaining our local Red and White box alarm monitoring.
• Perform monthly checks on all our campus elevators and inspect floor drains in the areas where we visit while performing riser inspections.
• Assist our security team and other division POCs installing and maintaining automated entry systems.
• Responsible for servicing and reporting issues with fire alarms, fire hydrants, card access and security problems.
• Also assist with escorting contractors while conducting alarm inspections. Perform limited monthly elevator inspections, and place elevator service requests.

Requirements:

• Requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Any trade school credits or misc trade licensing is a plus. Valid Texas fire installer license preferred but not required. Direct experience in the electrical or alarm trade would be a plus.
• 2+ years: Knowledge on basic building maintenance or construction trade. Understand how to use basic hand and power tools used in the alarm and security trade. Be able to climb and work off ladders. Work efficiently independently or with minimal supervision.
• 2+ years: Experience in installing, servicing and programing low voltage systems used for fire and security. Knowledge on using a voltmeter to read OHMS, check for grounds, wire resistance. Ability to read detailed drawings and have exceptional knowledge on running low voltage cabling.
• Computer experience with building spreadsheets, creating files and uploading/downloading files and programs.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.