Fire Alarm / Access Control Project Technician

As a Fire Alarm / Access Control Project Technician at Wachter, your primary responsibilities will include installing, troubleshooting, and repairing cabling systems related to IP Video, Access Control, and Intrusion Alarm systems, as well as fire alarms. You will work independently and alone and collaborate with the Installation Team Lead or Project Manager on-site schedules. Additionally, you'll ensure adherence to safety standards and provide excellent customer service. Working with various technology systems, you'll also be tasked with running low voltage cabling, mounting sensors, and ensuring compliance with all fire codes.

To qualify for the Fire Alarm / Access Control Project Technician position at Wachter, candidates should have field installation experience in security environments, ideally possessing NICET certification and a valid physical security or life safety license. Familiarity with NFPA standards is highly desirable, along with basic competency in Microsoft Office products. Candidates should also be able to demonstrate strong communication skills and a track record of problem-solving and independent work.

Wachter provides a comprehensive benefits package for Fire Alarm / Access Control Project Technicians, including company-paid medical, dental, prescription, and vision insurance. Employees also receive life insurance, paid vacations, and holidays, as well as access to MD Live for telehealth services. A company-matched 401(k) plan, per diem for travel, and potential for company vehicles after the initial training period are also part of the attractive benefits offered to ensure employee satisfaction and security.

The typical work schedule for a Fire Alarm / Access Control Project Technician at Wachter is primarily during the day, from 8 am to 5 pm. There may also be some night shifts required, depending on project needs and timelines. Additionally, this role involves travel, with opportunities to work on-site at multiple retail locations nationwide for a few weeks at a time, providing a dynamic work experience.

To prepare for the interview for the Fire Alarm / Access Control Project Technician position at Wachter, focusing on your hands-on experience with fire alarm installation, access control systems, and electrical work is essential. Review the company's safety standards and NFPA codes, and think about how your previous experiences align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Additionally, prepare examples of times you solved problems independently and demonstrated strong customer service, as these qualities are highly valued in our team.

When answering this question, detail your hands-on experience with fire alarm installations, including the equipment and technology you used. Highlight any specific projects where you oversaw the installation from start to finish, discussing how you ensured compliance with local codes and regulations.

In your response, mention the safety protocols you follow, from personal protective equipment to adherence to OSHA guidelines. Emphasize your commitment to safety culture and share specific examples of how you’ve recognized and mitigated potential hazards on the job.

This is a great opportunity to showcase your problem-solving abilities. Discuss a specific situation where you encountered a challenging system issue, the steps you took to troubleshoot, and how your methodical approach led to a successful resolution.

Share your strategies for time management and prioritization. Provide an example of a time when you had to juggle several responsibilities, emphasizing how effective communication with stakeholders and planning helped you meet deadlines.

In this answer, articulate your understanding of NFPA standards and their role in ensuring safety and compliance in fire alarm and access control projects. Personalize your response by discussing how following these standards has positively impacted your previous work.

Good communication is key! Explain how you keep clients updated on project progress and any changes that arise. Share an example of how maintaining a strong client relationship contributed to a successful outcome.

In your response, outline the relevance of accurately reading blueprints to successful installations. Share a specific instance where your skills in interpreting these documents led to efficient teamwork and project success.

Mention any industry resources you follow, such as trade publications, forums, or professional organizations. Highlight your dedication to ongoing learning and how you've applied new technologies in your previous roles.

Reflect on your passion for technology and safety in your answer. Share a personal story that illustrates your enthusiasm for making environments safer through your work.

Align your answer with Wachter's values, such as the importance placed on long-term employee relationships and innovative solutions. Discuss what excites you about joining a family-owned business and how your values align with theirs.