Fire Dex Jobs in Usa

Fire Sprinkler Sales Representative (Sales + Estimating)

 Palm Coast, Florida (In-Office | Regional Travel)

 New Construction + Inspection, Testing & Maintenance (ITM)

About North American Fire Protection

North American Fire Protection is a national design-build fire sprinkler contractor serving industrial and commercial facilities across the United States. With operations in Palm Coast, Florida and Fort Wayne, Indiana and licenses in more than 20 states, our team delivers fire protection solutions for complex environments including cold storage, food processing, manufacturing, and distribution facilities. We believe in strong leadership, accountability, and building long-term partnerships with both our customers and our team. Built to Protect. Driven by People.

Role Overview

North American Fire Protection is seeking an experienced Fire Sprinkler Sales Representative to support and grow our Florida operations. This role is responsible for driving revenue across new construction projects and inspection/service (ITM) work within a defined regional territory. The ideal candidate understands both the technical side of fire sprinkler systems and the business side of construction sales. This position is ideal for a professional who can confidently manage the full sales cycle—from identifying opportunities to estimating, proposal development, closing, and successful project handoff.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage a sales territory within a 100-mile radius of Palm Coast (Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Daytona Beach, Orlando)

• Identify and pursue new construction and inspection/service opportunities

• Prepare accurate estimates, material take-offs and proposals for fire sprinkler systems

• Independently quote projects while maintaining company margin and pricing standards

• Build and maintain relationships with general contractors, developers, property managers and facility owners

• Conduct site visits, client meetings, and job walks within the territory

• Collaborate with internal design, operations and service teams to ensure smooth project transitions

• Maintain pipeline visibility and sales activity through CRM tracking and forecasting

Qualifications

• Experience in the fire sprinkler industry required

• Proven experience in sales, estimating, or project development within fire protection or construction

• Strong understanding of NFPA codes, sprinkler systems and construction practices

• Experience preparing project estimates and proposals

• Strong communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills

• Highly organized and self-motivated with accountability to performance goals

• NICET certification preferred

• Experience selling both new construction and inspection/service work is highly desirable

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary + commission structure

• Employer-paid health insurance

• 401(k) with profit sharing and bonus opportunities

• Paid vacation, sick time and company holidays

• Company vehicle, laptop and mobile phone

• Access to our in-house training lab and professional development programs

Why Join North American Fire Protection?

North American Fire Protection is not a typical fire sprinkler contractor—and that’s intentional.

We are building a modern fire protection company focused on leadership, innovation, and long-term partnerships. Our team works on complex projects across the country and invests heavily in training, technology, and people.

If you are a sprinkler professional looking for long-term opportunity, strong leadership, and real growth potential, we encourage you to apply.

Apply through LinkedIn or Indeed.

Why work with us?

At Impact Fire, we are a group of hardworking, dedicated fire protection professionals committed to protecting lives and property from fire. Our cohesive team spirit and customer service-oriented culture are expressed in all that we do. We operate with the belief that every team member plays a critical role in our success. We operate in 30+ district office locations across the United States, supporting industries ranging from retail and healthcare to education and restaurants.

Benefits of joining Impact Fire Services

When you join Impact Fire you will receive:

• Competitive compensation
• Pay is on a weekly cycle, every Friday
• Career Advancement Opportunities
• Competitive benefits, including healthcare, dental, vision, life insurance, paid time off and holidays
• Company paid short and long-term disability
• Immediately vested in our 401(k) company match
• Full-time employees participate in our Shared Ownership Program which offers a monetary bonus aligned to the company's long-term success. This program fosters an ownership mindset and ensures that every employee meaningfully shares in the success they help create.
• Exceptional guidance and support from our managers
• Collaborative culture & environment
• Robust training opportunities with company reimbursement upon achieving required licensing
• Apprenticeship programs for fire sprinkler, fire alarm and inspection positions
• Opportunity to work alongside some of the best talent in the fire protection industry

Responsible for inspection, installation, and repair of Wet, Dry, Pre-action, Deluge and Foam systems; Testing, rebuilding and/or replacing Backflow Preventers. Responsible for identifying trouble areas and performing service in an efficient and professional manner to ensure that sprinkler systems are operating properly. We seek a self-motivated, customer service-oriented lead technician. The ideal candidate will be organized, professional, and a good communicator. This important position will establish a rapport and build positive relationships with our customers.

$10,000 sign-on bonus based on experience!!

Responsibilities include:

Sprinkler and Backflow Systems Installation, Repair, & Service:

• Prepare jobsite, performing visual inspection of system, disabling horn & strobes, and alerting alarm company and fire department.
• Install/hang sprinkler systems and their components per NFPA and engineering guidelines.
• Install or replace wet, dry, pre-action, deluge and foam systems as needed.
• Repair and/or replace all sprinkler systems components.

Repair, replace and rebuild backflow preventers as necessary.

• Verify proper communication with monitoring station when working on a monitored system after repair.
• Perform system tests to verify alarm & sprinkler systems are working properly upon completion of repair.
• Complete installation paperwork in a timely manner and turn completed paperwork into branch management.
• Report Deficiencies to Department Manager.

Qualifications

• Massachusetts Fire Sprinkler Journeyman License
• 1-3 years field experience in Sprinkler and Backflow systems service.
• Fire and /or Life Safety Systems experience.
• Must have or be able & willing to attain state Sprinkler and/or Backflow Licenses.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and driving record that meets company requirements.
• Must have a strong mechanical aptitude.
• Must be able to visually inspect and service sprinkler and backflow systems.
• Must be able to recognize alarm sights and sounds.
• Strong working knowledge of NFPA codes.
• May require ability to effectively use a Sprinkler Pipe Threader.
• Must be able to effectively use backflow tester, pipe wrench, various lifts and common pipe fitting tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3-5 years of proven success in performance of Sprinkler inspection, installation, and service is highly preferred.
• NICET Certification in Inspection & Testing of Water-Based Systems and/or Water-Based Systems Layout, preferred.

Successful completion of a drug test and pre-employment background screening is required. MVR checks are required for all driving positions.

We look forward to talking with you about career opportunities with Impact Fire Services.

Employment with an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) including disability/veterans.

FIRE PROTECTION SALES

Job description

Commercial Fire is seeking a National Sales Representative who has a minimum of 2 years of sales experience in the Fire Protection industry.

Required to work out of our corporate offices in Jacksonville, FL 3 days per week, Tuesday – Thursday.

$100,000/yr base salary plus commission and more…..!

Your territory is all 50 states. Exciting opportunity!

Are you in the market for an exciting, new career that gives you the opportunity to capitalize on your sales ability with an industry-leading, 40 year old nationwide fire protection service company? Commercial Fire is one of the largest nationwide Fire Protection service companies in the U.S., providing service in all 50 states. Our customers are some of the most recognized brands & well-known companies across several major industries. In this position, you would have the opportunity to develop new customers within your assigned industry vertical by contacting prospects & building relationships that lead to onboarding new customers.

Job Responsibilities

• Receive initial training in person at our Jacksonville, FL corporate offices & then meet once per week for an hour throughout the year for ongoing training & strategy discussion to assist you with your continued growth and success.
• Collaborate with other members within the Business Development department. The Senior Vice President of Business Development would be your direct report.
• This position has continual, extensive support & many resources at your disposal to ensure your success!
• You are supplied with a large base of prospects initially in your vertical & will also have access to ZOOM INFO which has many new prospects to add.
• Attend 1 large conference each year within your specific vertical to network & gather excellent leads & generate new sales. Talk with many management level prospects within your assigned vertical to generate leads, network & add new customers.
• Your territory is the entire country, all 50 states, within your vertical. This is a nationwide position, & you are the only person who will work inside your assigned industry/vertical!
• Execute a sales strategy that enables you to meet your sales goals.
• Communicate in creative ways with prospects to develop new customers & oversee all sales activity in your assigned industry vertical.
• Continually find & create leads beyond your original list of prospects by sending emails, making phone calls, find leads on Zoom Info & network on LinkedIn. Also find new creative avenues for leads.
• Assemble & professionally execute PowerPoint sales presentations to management level prospects via TEAMS.
• Submit a weekly sales report & maintain updated notes of your communication with your prospects in company software.
• This position has no operational or service-related duties or responsibilities, or any other daily activities or responsibilities outside of business development. This position is 100% new sales, developing & onboarding new customers, which increases the opportunity for quarterly & annual commissions! Our customers typically sign 1-3 year contracts.

Job Skills & Qualifications

• 2 years’ experience in fire protection sales is required
• Live in the Jacksonville, FL metro area
• Excellent verbal & written communication skills
• Excellent listening skills
• Presents professionally in TEAMS meetings
• Strong organizational skills
• Self-motivated, resilient, multi-task, ability to network, creative thinker
• Proficient in Word, PowerPoint, & Excel
• Basic fire protection industry knowledge would be necessary

Job Description: Fire Sprinkler Foreman

Location Openings: Diboll, TX, Shreveport, LA, New Iberia, LA, and Dallas, TX

Join Our Team: Your Expertise, Our Family Environment

Join a team that genuinely values skilled tradespeople. We are committed to your professional growth and foster a supportive, family-oriented work culture. We are seeking a motivated, experienced Fire Sprinkler Foreman who takes pride in their craftsmanship, thrives on solving complex problems, and is ready to lead the way on critical safety projects.

The Role: Fire Sprinkler Foreman

As a working Foreman, you are the crucial on-site leader. You will ensure that fire suppression systems are installed, maintained, and repaired to the highest safety and quality standards, specifically adhering to all NFPA requirements.

You will manage daily job site operations, directly supervise a small crew (2–4 people), and serve as the primary professional point of contact for our valued customers and general contractors.

Key Responsibilities (“What You’ll Do”)

• Lead & Supervise: Manage and direct a 2-4 person crew on commercial and industrial job sites, ensuring peak efficiency, strict safety compliance (OSHA 10/30), and uncompromising quality control.
• Expert Installation & Service: Perform expert installation, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of various fire sprinkler systems.
• Technical Execution: Execute core physical tasks including precise cutting, threading, and grooving of pipe, professional pipe hanging, and cutting all-thread rod.
• Blueprint Interpretation: Accurately read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and project specifications to guide efficient and compliant installations.
• Client Communication: Serve as the professional face of the company, communicating courteously and effectively with clients, general contractors, and inspectors.
• Documentation & Reporting: Ensure accurate completion and timely submission of all project paperwork, service documentation, and daily job reports.
• Safety & Organization: Uphold a clean, safe, and organized work environment while ensuring proper maintenance of all company equipment and tool

Required Qualifications (“What We’re Looking For”)

We are looking for a reliable, experienced leader who meets these essential requirements:

• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of proven experience as a fire sprinkler foreman or equivalent supervisory role within the fire protection or plumbing trades.
• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Licensing & Certifications: Valid state driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Compliance: Ability to pass a mandatory background check and drug screening prior to employment.
• Physical Ability: Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs, work comfortably and safely at heights (ladders/lifts), and stand for extended periods in various weather conditions.
• NFPA Standards: Strong working knowledge of NFPA Standards (NFPA 13, 20, 25).

Compensation & Benefits (“What We Offer”)

We believe in rewarding hard work, expertise, and commitment.

• Highly Competitive Wages: Pay is based directly on your experience, skill level, and relevant certifications.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive Medical and Dental Insurance plans.
• Financial Future: 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
• Time Off: Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays.
• Work-Life Balance Note: This role requires some flexibility to accommodate occasional after-hours service calls and limited overnight travel (project-dependent).

Commitment to Professional Growth (“How we support your development”)

We support and encourage ongoing training and certifications to further your career, including:

• NICET Level Certifications
• Inspector Licensing
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification
• Continuing education of NFPA Standards (NFPA 13, 20, 25)

City of Kirkland

$93,092.67 - $125,800.90 Annually

Kirkland, WA

Full-Time

202100694

Fire - Emergency Services

01/15/2026

Non-Exempt

IAFF

The Kirkland Fire Department is seeking Entry Level Firefighters who are passionate about serving their community and answering the call in times of need. We are looking for individuals who are committed to protecting life, property, and the environment through professional emergency response and compassionate public service.

Job Summary

Responsible for performing general firefighting and emergency medical care at fire and disaster scenes.

Essential Duties

• Responds to fire alarms with a company; lays and connects hose, holds nozzles and directs water stream; raises and climbs ladders; uses chemical extinguishers, bars, hooks, lines, and other equipment.
• Drives fire apparatus; operates pumps, and other auxiliary fire apparatus.
• Ventilates burning buildings by opening windows and skylights or cutting holes in roofs and floors.
• Removes persons from danger and administers emergency care to injured or ill persons.
• Performs general maintenance work in the upkeep of department property, cleans and washes walls and floors, cares for grounds around station; makes minor repairs, washes, hangs and dries hose; washes, cleans, polishes, maintains and tests apparatus and equipment.
• Performs salvage and overhaul operations such as throwing salvage covers, sweeping water and removing debris.
• Participates in fire drills and attends classes in firefighting and emergency medical care.
• Inspects buildings to determine fire hazards.
• Performs other work as assigned.
• Writes and maintains accurate reports.
• At higher level of Firefighter, instructs job skills to others.
• May be required to perform duties as a disaster worker in the event of a disaster affecting the City of Kirkland. This may require returning to work during off-hours or remaining at work past normal work hours.

Peripheral Duties

• Performs administrative and/or technical support tasks for Fire Administration such as computer data entry, maintaining maps, researching programs and issues, and other related support tasks.
• Instructs the public in fire and emergency medical safety.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a working knowledge of fire suppression techniques.
• Ability to perform prolonged and arduous work under adverse conditions and to maintain an adequate level of physical fitness at all times.
• Ability to achieve and maintain certified status as an Emergency Medical Technician. Firefighter V must maintain defibrillation certification.
• Ability to learn a wide variety of firefighting duties and methods within a reasonable working test period.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from high school or a GED. Candidates must meet such medical, age, psychological, and physical standards as may be prescribed. Must maintain a valid Washington Driver's License. Must be able to move objects weighing up to 150 pounds.

Working Conditions
Work is usually performed during 24-hour shifts. May frequently require exposure to hazardous conditions that are typical to a fire or emergency situation, such as, intense heat, smoke, burning debris and falling structures. Wears self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing in emergency situations. A large part of the time is spent in the performance of routine duties at a fire station.

JOB SUMMARY

The Fire Services Director (“Director”) reports to the Commissioners Court and receives day-to-day direction from the County Judge. He or she is responsible for the strategic direction, development, implementation, and oversight of comprehensive programs relating to fire safety, emergency preparedness, and non-law enforcement public safety. He or she ensures compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and standards while promoting a safe environment for all personnel, stakeholders, and citizens. The Director serves as the primary liaison with fire departments, emergency responders, law enforcement, regulatory agencies, Commissioners, and the media.

SUPERVISION

The Director reports to the "Court" and receives day-to-day direction from the County Judge. He or she supervises the County’s officials in charge of Fire Protection and Emergency Services, and supervises logistical and administrative staff.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE

• Strong leadership, communication, and crisis management skills
• Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible experience in fire safety, emergency management, and/or public safety, including supervisory experience.
• Associate’s degree or higher in Emergency Management, Fire Science, Criminal Justice, Public Safety, Public Administration, or Business Administration, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Required Certifications
• CPR certification AHA or Red Cross
• Texas DSHS EMT certification
• Texas Commission on Fire Protection Basic Firefighter Certification required, or SFFMA Firefighter I and II Certification
• Valid Class A/B Texas driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record
• National Incident Management System certifications (NIMS) 100, 200, 300, 400, 700, 800
• Knowledge of applicable fire codes, regulations, and emergency management protocols.

PREFERENCES

• Previous experience administering municipal or county departmental budgets
• 5 years of experience working with rural Volunteer Fire Departments and Volunteer Firefighters
• Experience as a Public Information Officer or handling similar responsibilities
• Texas DSHS EMT-Paramedic certification
• Advanced NIMS certifications
• Incident Commander
• Operations Section Chief
• Advanced Emergency Operations Center Functions, or
• ICS Incident Commander Course

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

The Director must be able to perform the following essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation. These duties and responsibilities are not all inclusive of the those necessary to perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform Essential Job Duties.

1. Plans, coordinates, supervises, and evaluates Emergency Management operations.
2. Ensures the coordination of emergency management systems during emergency and disaster operations and effectively manages all phases of emergency activities.
3. In emergencies, coordinates preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery programs with local, state and Federal officials; coordinates emergency information and mutual aid resources and takes action as necessary; arranges for the effective use of ad hoc task force teams and other expert advisory councils, as necessary and appropriate.
4. Takes part in emergency and disaster operations; plans, coordinates, evaluates, recommends, and applies procedures during all phases of emergency management for mitigation, response, relief, and recovery.
5. Coordinates with the 911 Department to ensure that all location addresses in the unincorporated areas of the County are assigned and routed to the correct fire and EMS service areas when a 911 call is made.
6. Develops and adapts strategies for the transfer of emergency management information; provides planning assistance to local, state, and Federal agencies; develops efficient procedures for risk assessment; develops emergency planning standards and reviews criteria for compliance with the standards.
7. Assists as needed regarding mass public gatherings; participates in EMTF and other state asset emergency management teams.
8. Serve as directed and informs the public/media during emergency events.
9. Plans, conducts, and evaluates emergency drills and exercises in coordination with public service agencies, including rural, volunteer, and municipal fire departments, as well as State/Federal partners; develops and maintains effective training, response, and preparedness programs for fire and emergency incidents; manages operations and resources to meet program goals by organizing workloads, assigning staff, training and motivating volunteers, and monitoring progress to implement necessary improvements.
10. Plans and implements programs to effectively carry out policies and goals; reviews departmental performance and effectiveness; reports on operations, outcomes, and strategic initiatives to the Commissioners Court; and engages with elected/appointed officials, emergency management personnel, community leaders, and the public regarding all aspects of the Department’s activities and services.
11. Coordinates the preparation and presentation of an annual budget for Emergency Management and Fire Services; plans for and reviews specifications for new or replaced equipment. Develops, recommends, and administers the annual budget and forecasts funds needed for equipment, materials, supplies, and staffing. Monitors expense, approves needed funds, and plans for budget purposes.
12. Consults with local, State, and Federal officials on policy, regulations and legislation, and ensuring adherence to State and Federal statutes, regulations and guidelines.
13. Prepares and delivers presentations to Court, departmental leadership, advisory boards, civic organizations, and the general public, including presentations on fire prevention, arson investigation, and emergency management programs as needed or requested. Collects, interprets, and analyzes data to develop studies, reports, and supporting documentation for departmental planning, performance evaluation, and informed decision-making, including annual reports and other materials as directed. Communicates data and findings in clear, language for a wide range of audiences. Formulates, advises and presents recommendations (including burn ban declarations and limitations on the sale and use of certain types of firework recommendations) impacting departmental programs and county policies, including the development of alternatives and solutions to support legislative, regulatory, and operational initiatives.
14. Performs county audits of all homeland grant equipment and emergency management equipment.
15. Researches, prepares, and submits grant applications for private, State, and Federal funding for the County’s Emergency Management and Homeland Security projects; administers grant projects and programs.
16. Represents Washington County on various advisory committees (HSAC, Regional Interoperable Communication, BVRAC, etc.), and provides County input and assistance by service on various public safety, fire, EMS, and emergency management committees with local, regional, state, and federal government entities and other public agencies to ensure coordinated preparedness and response efforts.
17. Attends conferences and meetings to keep abreast of current trends in the field; represents the County Emergency Management Department in a variety of local, county, state and other meetings.
18. Performs all other duties and tasks as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

The Director must possess, or rapidly acquire and develop the following KSAs:

1. Knowledge of relevant federal, state and local laws, codes, and regulations related to the Essential Job Duties;
2. Knowledge of county government operations;
3. Ability to work with detailed documents and arrive at correct solutions;
4. Ability to accept constructive criticism and tolerate impolite behavior from customers and colleagues;
5. Be highly motivated and a self-starter with the ability to plan and execute time sensitive activities and processes to meet deadlines;
6. Ability to get along well and work effectively with department managers, employees, and Commissioners Court in a cooperative, helpful, and professional manner;
7. Ability to maintain highly ethical behavior and communications;
8. Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding personnel and employment related information; and
9. Ability to communicate in person, by telephone, in writing and electronically, in order to interact in a courteous, respectful and effective manner with the general public, elected and appointed officials of the County and other organizations, and other County personnel.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

In order to successfully achieve the goals of the County and Department, the Director must meet the following physical and mental requirements with or without reasonable accommodation. These requirements are representative, but not all inclusive of the physical and mental requirements necessary to perform this job. The Director must have the ability to understand, learn, remember and communicate information about the job.

1. The ability to understand the meaning of, and use and speak words understandably and effectively in the English language.
2. Good hearing and listening abilities, that is, the Director must be able to hear spoken words from co-workers, supervisors, and others.
3. Good motor coordination skills, that is, the Director must be able to coordinate his or her eyes, hands and fingers rapidly and accurately in order to handle precise movements such as typing and in response to visual, auditory and other stimuli.
4. Make/use repetitive hand motions over an extended period, as when typing.
5. Walk up and down stairs.
6. Work under pressure and under deadlines in order to respond to co-workers and the public.
7. Sit, stand, move around, bend, reach, stretch, grasp, push and pull and remain upright for extended periods of time in one area. Must be able to lift or move objects weighing as much as 100 pounds.

Job Title: Fire Protection Systems Designer

Location: Philadelphia or Lehigh Valley PA

Compensation: $80,000 - $100,000

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Tuition reimbursement
• NICET certification incentives
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
• Advancement opportunities within a growing organization

Company Overview:

Tiello is partnered with a leading Fire Protection Contractor specializing in fire alarm, fire suppression, and special hazard systems, in their search for a Fire Protection Systems Designer to support commercial, industrial, and special hazard projects.

Role Summary:

The ideal candidate will have 3–5+ years of experience in fire protection system design and drafting and will be responsible for preparing accurate, code-compliant drawings and supporting projects from design through closeout. This role collaborates closely with engineering, sales, project management, and field teams to ensure designs are technically sound and buildable.

Project Type:

• Commercial facilities
• Industrial facilities
• Special hazard environments
• Fire alarm systems
• Clean agent and suppression systems

Job Responsibilities:

• Prepare detailed drawings for fire protection, fire suppression, and fire alarm systems using AutoCAD
• Develop system layouts including detection devices, notification appliances, control panels, and releasing panels
• Design clean agent and special hazard suppression systems
• Produce riser diagrams, schematics, and sequence of operations documentation
• Ensure compliance with NFPA standards (including NFPA 13, 72, 2001) and AHJ requirements
• Review project specifications to validate required design criteria
• Prepare and coordinate submittal packages for AHJ and client review
• Maintain organized drawing files, revision controls, and documentation databases
• Support installation and commissioning teams with design revisions and technical clarification
• Utilize manufacturer-specific software for alarm and suppression system layouts
• Stay current with fire protection codes, technology updates, and industry standards

Qualifications/Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED required; technical degree in drafting, engineering technology, or related field preferred
• 3–5+ years of fire protection system design or drafting experience
• Proficiency in AutoCAD
• Working knowledge of applicable NFPA codes
• Familiarity with AHJ submittal processes
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects
• NICET certification (or actively pursuing) preferred
• Experience with clean agent or special hazard systems preferred
• Eligibility to work in the U.S.

Tiello LLC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.