Inspect buildings to detect fire hazards and enforce local ordinances and state laws, or investigate and gather facts to determine cause of fires and explosions.
SOC: 33-2021.00
Common Job Titles
Arson Investigator
Fire Inspector
Fire Investigator
Fire Prevention Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate building fire safety systems and structural compliance against local ordinances and state fire codes, working independently in commercial and residential settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze fire and explosion scenes to determine origin and cause using evidence collection techniques, gas chromatographs, and spectroscopes under potentially hazardous conditions.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform comprehensive building inspections using detection equipment, measuring tools, and safety gear to assess fire hazards and suppression systems.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret fire codes, building plans, and regulatory requirements for property owners and contractors during compliance consultations.
Proficient
MindsetEngage with building owners, occupants, and emergency response personnel to promote fire safety awareness and resolve compliance issues professionally.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate specialized detection equipment including multigas detectors, photoionization detectors, and thermal imaging devices during field investigations and building assessments.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess fire suppression systems, detection systems, and emergency egress routes in diverse building types, applying knowledge of building construction and mechanical systems.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for public safety and fire prevention measures through community education, training programs, and enforcement of fire safety standards.
Proficient
KnowledgePrepare detailed inspection reports and investigation documentation using computer systems and National Fire Incident Reporting System, following regulatory documentation standards.
Developing
KnowledgeApply chemistry and physics principles to fire behavior analysis when investigating combustion patterns, accelerant use, and material reactions at fire scenes.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Fire Inspectors and Investigators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,050
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $47,580. 25th percentile: U.S. $60,700. 50th percentile: U.S. $78,060. 75th percentile: U.S. $105,390. 90th percentile: U.S. $149,870. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$47,580
10% of workers earn the following or more
$149,870
Workers on average earn
$87,440
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Public Safety and Security4.7/5
Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
Building and Construction4.2/5
Law and Government4.1/5
Education and Training4.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Access
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
Code database software
Consolidated Model of Fire and Smoke Transport CFAST
