Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of safety and security, the significance of Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officers has never been more critical.

As buildings grow taller, and the complexities of architecture evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can assess, ensure, and maintain safety standards becomes more pressing.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drawing up the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the essential functions of fire inspection and code enforcement,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officers ensure public safety by enforcing fire codes and regulations.

They are responsible for inspecting buildings and facilities for potential fire hazards and ensuring compliance with fire safety standards.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conduct routine inspections of buildings and facilities to identify and correct fire hazards
• Enforce compliance with fire codes and regulations
• Review and approve plans for new buildings or renovations to ensure they meet fire safety standards
• Investigate and report on fires to determine their causes and how they could have been prevented
• Educate the public and businesses about fire safety and prevention
• Issue permits for controlled burning and fireworks displays
• Work closely with local fire departments and other emergency services to plan and coordinate response efforts
• Maintain records and write reports detailing inspections and investigations
• Attend and provide input at public and private meetings regarding fire safety regulations
• Order the removal or correction of fire hazards

 

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer.

Your primary responsibilities will include inspecting buildings, facilities, and structures to ensure they meet all necessary fire codes, regulations, and laws.

As a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer, you will be responsible for investigating complaints, enforcing applicable codes, and issuing permits and certificates.

You will be expected to have extensive knowledge of fire safety standards and a keen eye for identifying potential hazards.

 

Responsibilities

• Inspect buildings and facilities for compliance with fire codes and regulations
• Investigate complaints and issue violation notices when necessary
• Prepare and maintain inspection records and reports
• Conduct fire investigations and determine origin and cause of fires
• Implement and enforce applicable fire codes and regulations
• Issue permits and certificates of compliance
• Educate the public about fire safety and prevention
• Participate in fire safety training and drills
• Work closely with local fire departments and other emergency services
• Recommend necessary fire safety equipment and prevention measures

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer
• Knowledge of fire safety codes and regulations
• Ability to identify potential fire hazards
• Strong observational and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills
• Ability to handle stressful situations and make decisions under pressure
• Certification as a Fire Inspector or equivalent (e.g., NFPA, IFSTA)
• Valid driver’s license
• High school diploma or equivalent; degree in fire science or related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• Pension plan
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities
• Uniform allowance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer
• Work Environment: This role involves field work and inspections in various settings including commercial buildings, residential properties, and industrial facilities. It may also require responding to emergencies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Fire Chief or Fire Marshal.
• Salary: Salary is dependent upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer Do?

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officers are essential public safety professionals who work for local or state government agencies, or for private organizations.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure that buildings and other structures comply with local, state and national fire codes.

They conduct regular inspections of facilities to identify and correct any fire hazards that might exist.

They work with architects and building owners during the planning and construction stages to ensure that the buildings are designed and built according to the fire safety codes.

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officers also review and approve building plans to ensure they meet fire safety regulations.

Additionally, they can be involved in fire investigations to determine the cause of a fire and whether there were any fire code violations.

If they find any violations during their inspections or investigations, they issue citations and can work with building owners to develop correction plans.

They also provide training and educational programs to the public and other stakeholders about fire safety and prevention.

The ultimate goal of a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer is to protect the lives and property of people by ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.

 

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer Qualifications and Skills

A Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer should possess a range of skills and qualifications to fulfill their duties, such as:

• Understanding and knowledge of fire codes, laws, ordinances, and regulations, which are essential to effectively perform inspections and ensure compliance.
• Excellent observational skills for identifying potential fire hazards and code violations during inspections and investigations.
• Problem-solving skills to determine the best way to correct code violations and minimize fire risks.
• Good communication skills to effectively communicate with property owners, the public, and other professionals about fire codes, violations, and corrective actions.
• Strong report writing skills to accurately document inspections, violations, and enforcement actions.
• Physical stamina and agility are necessary for conducting thorough inspections, which may involve walking, climbing, crawling, or lifting.
• Ability to work under pressure and make critical decisions during emergency situations.
• Detail-oriented to ensure all aspects of fire safety are examined and addressed during inspections.

 

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer Experience Requirements

To become a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer, candidates are typically required to have at least a high school diploma or an equivalent, though a degree in fire science or a related field can be advantageous.

However, experience is often key in this role, and many employers require a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in fire prevention, fire inspection, or a similar role.

This experience enables the officer to develop a comprehensive understanding of fire codes and regulations, as well as practical skills in identifying and addressing fire hazards.

Candidates may gain this experience by serving as a firefighter, where they learn about fire behaviors, building construction, emergency procedures, and the use of firefighting equipment.

They may also gain relevant experience by working in a regulatory role, such as a building inspector or a code enforcement officer, where they learn about code compliance and enforcement procedures.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have developed advanced skills and knowledge in fire prevention and inspection, and may be qualified for supervisory or managerial roles.

This could involve overseeing a team of fire inspectors, developing and implementing fire prevention programs, or working with government officials to update fire codes and regulations.

In addition, many employers require Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officers to be certified by a recognized organization, such as the National Fire Protection Association.

This certification process often involves a combination of education, experience, and examination.

 

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer Education and Training Requirements

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officers typically require a high school diploma or its equivalent as a minimum educational requirement.

Some employers may prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fire science, engineering, or a related field.

These individuals undergo rigorous on-the-job training, where they learn the essentials of fire prevention, safety procedures, and local building codes.

Some of this training may be in the form of apprenticeships or trainee roles alongside experienced officers.

Many states require Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officers to be certified.

The certification process often includes passing an exam that tests knowledge in fire prevention, building codes, and safety regulations.

Certification must be renewed periodically, and officers are usually required to complete ongoing education to keep their knowledge and skills up to date.

Some officers may choose to further their education and credentials by pursuing specialized training courses or degrees in areas such as fire science or emergency management.

These additional qualifications can enhance their career prospects and demonstrate their commitment to the profession.

In addition to education and training, Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officers must have a valid driver’s license, and they may need to meet other physical requirements.

They must also have strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively.

 

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer is $61,730 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income may vary depending on factors such as the officer’s years of experience, education, location, and the department in which they work.

 

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer need?

A Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer should have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, though an associate or bachelor’s degree in fire science, engineering, or a related field can be beneficial.

They also need to pass the required state or national certification tests.

Some states require these officers to be licensed, and most prefer some professional experience in firefighting, building inspection, or a related field.

 

What skills are essential for a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer?

Key skills for a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer include a solid understanding of fire safety codes and regulations, strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills.

They should also be able to work independently, handle stressful situations, and make decisions under pressure.

Physical stamina is also important as the job often requires walking through buildings and climbing stairs.

 

What are the daily duties of a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer?

On a typical day, a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer might conduct inspections of buildings to identify any fire hazards or code violations.

They review evacuation plans, test fire protection equipment, and ensure buildings have proper fire exits.

These officers also conduct follow-up inspections to verify that violations have been corrected.

They may also attend meetings with architects, builders, and developers to advise on fire safety and code compliance during the design and construction process.

 

What qualities make a good Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer?

A good Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer has an in-depth understanding of fire codes and safety regulations.

They are detail-oriented, ensuring that no potential fire hazards are overlooked during inspections.

They are also excellent communicators, able to explain complex regulations and safety procedures in a clear, understandable manner.

A strong sense of duty and a commitment to public safety are also key attributes.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer?

Hiring a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and experience required for the role.

The demand for these professionals is high, especially in urban areas with many buildings to inspect.

Therefore, offering competitive salaries and benefits, as well as opportunities for professional development, can be important in attracting and retaining qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the ins and outs of being a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer.

Guess what?

It’s not merely about inspecting buildings and enforcing codes.

It’s about safeguarding communities, one inspection at a time.

With our invaluable Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why halt your progress here?

Further explore with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating meticulous job listings or refining your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every inspection contributes to the overall safety of a community.

Let’s ensure that safety. Together.

How to Become a Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement Officer (Complete Guide)

Jobs That Jive with Joy: Where Stress Is Just a Word

The New Way to Work: The Most Flexible Jobs for Millennials

The Unstoppable: Recession-Proof Jobs for Long-Term Security

Rich Rewards: The Jobs That Promise More Than Just a Paycheck!