As the largest aggregator of structured risk information and property data in Canada, Opta Information Intelligence is a leading provider of property intelligence and innovative technology solutions. Combined with proprietary technology, Opta helps clients access, understand, and synthesize previously inaccessible information, turning it into intelligence that helps to discover and understand business risks. Opta initially began as the Canadian Fire Underwriters’ Association (CFUA) in 1883.

The Fire Underwriter’s Survey (FUS) is a division of Opta. FUS was established as part of the Canadian Fire Underwriters’ Association (CFUA) in 1883. The group of engineers, technologists and analysts have evaluated and aggregated data on public fire protection infrastructure since its establishment. FUS uses GIS technology to maintain this dataset called the Grading Index. Further information can be found at www.fireunderwriters.ca.

Job Description:

Fire Protection Specialist (FPS-1) is a supervised position that is responsible for learning and applying a national standardized methodology for determining the levels of public fire protection in relation to the levels of risk within a community/municipality.

Graduation from an engineering/engineering technologist program or other quantitative field, related degree, or equivalent experience.Ideally 2 years work experience. Further graduate studies and co-op experience also considered.Data analytics experienceBasic GIS concept knowledgeUnderstanding of database conceptsExcellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with a diverse group

Assets:

Knowledge of fire science and engineering and related standardsKnowledge of fire department operations (including equipment) and related standardsKnowledge of water supply systems and related standardsKnowledge of public safety emergency communications systems and related standardsKnowledge of building construction and private fire protection systemsKnowledge of risk management modelsKnowledge of government organization and municipal planningStrong organization skills and presentation skillsStrong computer and technology skills in the areas of: Report Development (MS Word, Excel), Adobe Acrobat; Geo – spatial (ex. Google Earth, ArcGIS) and Databases (MS Access and SQL)

#LI-MB1

#LI-Hybrid

Collect and aggregate data related to levels of risk and fire protection. This includes building stock, GIS data, fire department response capacity, water system infrastructure. This data is collected using a web-based application and through on-site surveys of communities. Complete fire flow calculations and ensure adequate documentation is maintained and processes tracked including GIS spatial recording. Use the Classification Standard for Public Fire Protection (CSPFP) to determine Public Fire Protection Classifications (PFPC) and Dwelling Protection Grades (DPG) for communities. Maintain documentation and records of calculations in a standardized process. Process data and Grades to the GIS database following standardized procedures. Respond to client queries using GIS systems and other aggregated datasets. Assist senior fire protection specialists in the evaluation of larger communities. Participate in consulting studies for municipalities. Speak and communicate with municipal officials (including fire and rescue service providers) in a professional manner. Being able to perform data analysis for custom reports. Participate in procedure, standard and process development.