Fire Inspector and Investigator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era where safety is paramount, the role of Fire Inspectors and Investigators has become increasingly critical.

As our environments become more complex, the call for skilled professionals who can inspect, investigate, and ensure our spaces are safe from fire hazards becomes louder.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Fire Inspector and Investigator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager attempting to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the day-to-day tasks of a Fire Inspector and Investigator,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Fire Inspector and Investigator job description template, created for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Fire Inspector and Investigator Duties and Responsibilities

Fire Inspectors and Investigators ensure the safety of buildings and other structures by enforcing fire codes and regulations.

They also investigate fire incidents to determine their causes.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Inspect buildings and other structures for compliance with fire safety standards
• Review and approve building plans to ensure they meet fire safety codes
• Conduct fire investigations to determine the origin and cause of fires
• Collect evidence from fire scenes and interview witnesses
• Document findings in detailed reports, noting any potential violations of law or fire codes
• Testify in court in cases of suspected arson or fire code violations
• Conduct fire safety education programs and provide recommendations for fire prevention
• Communicate and collaborate with other officials such as police, arson investigators, and engineers
• Stay current on local and state fire regulations and codes
• Issue citations or shutdown orders for buildings found in violation of fire codes

 

Fire Inspector and Investigator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Fire Inspector and Investigator to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for inspecting buildings to detect fire hazards, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations, and investigating the causes of fires.

Your duties will also include educating the public about fire safety and prevention.

As a Fire Inspector and Investigator, you should be well-versed in local fire safety codes, have a sharp eye for details, and be able to communicate effectively with diverse groups of people.

 

Responsibilities

• Inspect buildings and other structures for fire safety, ensuring compliance with fire safety codes.
• Investigate the causes of fires and explosions.
• Collect and preserve evidence from fire scenes.
• Work closely with law enforcement agencies in the case of arson.
• Conduct fire safety education programs for the public.
• Prepare and present reports detailing findings of inspections and investigations.
• Recommend fire prevention measures to eliminate fire hazards.
• Maintain detailed records of inspections and investigations conducted.
• Stay current with new laws and regulations concerning fire prevention and safety.
• Testify in court when necessary.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Fire Inspector and Investigator or similar role in law enforcement.
• Knowledge of local fire safety codes and regulations.
• Excellent observational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions and respond quickly in emergency situations.
• Strong communication and public speaking skills.
• Physical fitness and the ability to pass a departmental physical ability test.
• High school diploma; further education in fire science or a related field is preferred.
• Valid driver’s license.
• State certification as a Fire Inspector and Investigator may be required.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuous training and career development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Fire Inspector and Investigator
• Work Environment: This role requires both office work and fieldwork. Fieldwork may involve exposure to hazardous materials and environments.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Fire Chief or other designated officer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• 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 Inspector and Investigator Do?

Fire Inspectors and Investigators perform a critical role in public safety, working within different industries such as the government, insurance companies, or consulting firms.

They examine buildings in order to detect fire hazards and ensure that federal, state, and local fire codes are met.

They also test fire alarms, sprinklers, and other firefighting equipment to make sure they work correctly.

Fire Inspectors conduct regular inspections on new and existing structures, checking for proper fire exits, signage, storage of flammable materials, and other potential hazards.

On the other hand, Fire Investigators determine the origin and cause of fires by collecting and analyzing evidence.

This might involve interviewing witnesses, constructing theories of how fires start, and even working with other investigators such as police officers in cases of arson or other criminal activities.

In addition to these roles, Fire Inspectors and Investigators are responsible for educating the public and organizations about fire safety and prevention.

They often conduct fire safety presentations and workshops, and work with building planners and developers to ensure new structures are built in compliance with fire codes.

Finally, they must document their findings and prepare reports for legal proceedings or insurance claims.

In some cases, they may be called upon to testify in court.

 

Fire Inspector and Investigator Qualifications and Skills

Fire Inspectors and Investigators need a variety of skills and qualifications to conduct inspections, detect and prevent violations of fire regulations and laws, and investigate fire incidents.

These include:

• Knowledge of fire safety codes and regulations to ensure that buildings and properties are in compliance.
• Strong observational skills to identify potential fire hazards during inspections and investigations.
• Problem-solving skills to determine the cause of a fire and to suggest preventive measures.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills to effectively convey findings and recommendations to property owners, public safety officials, and court personnel.
• Interpersonal skills to deal with a wide range of individuals, from property owners to law enforcement officials.
• Physical endurance and courage to handle potentially dangerous situations during investigations.
• Detail-oriented to carefully inspect buildings and properties, and to accurately document findings and evidence.
• Ability to use and maintain a variety of tools and equipment used in fire inspections and investigations.
• Understanding of legal procedures and evidence handling for instances when fire incidents lead to legal actions.

 

Fire Inspector and Investigator Experience Requirements

Fire Inspectors and Investigators generally require a significant amount of practical experience, often gained through roles in firefighting.

Typically, many departments require a minimum of 3-5 years of firefighting experience before considering a firefighter for a promotion to a Fire Inspector or Investigator.

In addition, Fire Inspectors and Investigators usually undergo specialized training programs to understand the intricacies of fire prevention, inspection, and investigation.

These programs often include both theoretical and practical training, focusing on areas such as fire codes, safety regulations, and investigative techniques.

Candidates interested in this career path may also gain valuable experience through internships or part-time roles in related fields such as safety inspection or law enforcement.

Fire Inspectors and Investigators with more than 5 years of experience may have developed their knowledge and understanding sufficiently to handle more complex tasks, such as conducting detailed fire investigations or educating the public and businesses about fire safety.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may have demonstrated leadership abilities and could be considered for senior-level roles or management positions within the department.

 

Fire Inspector and Investigator Education and Training Requirements

Fire Inspectors and Investigators usually require a high school diploma or equivalent education as a minimum educational requirement.

However, many also have a postsecondary degree in fire science, engineering, or chemistry.

They must also undergo rigorous training at a fire academy, learning various aspects such as emergency procedures, fire-fighting techniques, and local building codes.

Most states mandate Fire Inspectors and Investigators to be certified.

The certification requirements may include a particular number of years of experience in fire services, successful completion of written and practical exams, and continuous education credits.

In addition, practical experience as a firefighter can be extremely beneficial in this role.

This experience provides hands-on understanding of fire behavior and the effects of fire suppressant materials.

Many Fire Inspectors and Investigators also take courses in criminal justice or related fields, as the role often involves investigating the cause of fires and explosions.

Furthermore, a strong understanding of local, state, and national fire codes is vital.

This requires ongoing education as these codes and standards are periodically updated.

Lastly, having strong physical fitness and the ability to pass a medical examination is usually required, as the job can be physically demanding and stressful.

 

Fire Inspector and Investigator Salary Expectations

A Fire Inspector and Investigator can expect to earn an average salary of $62,510 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary depending on the individual’s level of experience, education, location, and the budget of the employing municipality or private company.

 

Fire Inspector and Investigator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Fire Inspector and Investigator need?

Fire Inspectors and Investigators need to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills to determine the cause of a fire.

They should have a keen attention to detail and the ability to operate and understand complex firefighting and investigation equipment.

Good communication skills are also important as they often have to interview witnesses, interact with other emergency personnel, and write detailed reports.

 

Do Fire Inspectors and Investigators need a degree?

A degree is not always required for Fire Inspectors and Investigators, but many employers prefer candidates with a degree in fire science or a related field.

Most Fire Inspectors and Investigators are former firefighters and have completed extensive on-the-job training.

Additionally, they must pass a state or national certification exam.

 

What should you look for in a Fire Inspector and Investigator resume?

Look for certification as a Fire Inspector and Investigator, as well as experience in firefighting.

Previous experience in the field is crucial.

Additional training or education in fire science or a related field is also a plus.

The resume should also highlight the candidate’s analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.

 

What qualities make a good Fire Inspector and Investigator?

A good Fire Inspector and Investigator is diligent, detail-oriented, and has a strong sense of integrity.

They must be physically fit as the role can be physically demanding and occasionally hazardous.

They should also have a good understanding of fire codes and regulations, and should be able to work well under pressure.

 

Is it difficult to hire Fire Inspectors and Investigators?

Hiring for Fire Inspectors and Investigators can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and experience required.

It is also a role that calls for a high level of responsibility and integrity.

However, the pool of retired or transitioning firefighters provides a good source of potential candidates.

Offering competitive salaries, benefits, and ongoing training opportunities can also help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shone a spotlight on the intense and vital role of a fire inspector and investigator.

And guess what?

It’s not just about inspecting fire safety equipment.

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

With our comprehensive fire inspector and investigator job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to blaze a trail in your career.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step for creating laser-focused job listings or for crafting your resume to stand out.

Remember:

Each inspection and investigation is a crucial part of a safer tomorrow.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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