Fire Inspector Job Description: Salary, Duties, & More (2023)

Fire inspectors are responsible for ensuring that businesses and organizations comply with local, state, and federal fire safety regulations. They commonly inspect commercial properties to ensure they have the proper equipment and procedures in place to prevent fires from starting or spreading.

Fire inspectors may also be tasked with investigating fires that do occur to determine their cause and origin. This information is then used by firefighters and other emergency responders to plan how best to respond to future incidents.

Fire Inspector Job Duties

Fire inspectors have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Inspecting commercial and residential buildings for fire hazards such as overloaded electrical circuits, malfunctioning smoke detectors, or blocked exit doors
• Evaluating fire department operations and protocols, including training programs and equipment maintenance schedules
• Inspecting local businesses to ensure that they are complying with fire codes and other regulations related to fire safety
• Performing fire inspections of commercial properties, including restaurants, schools, and warehouses
• Investigating fires and explosions to determine the cause of the blaze
• Inspecting fire alarm systems and smoke detectors in businesses and residences, testing batteries, and replacing those that are not functioning properly
• Investigating fires in public buildings, such as schools and theaters, to determine the cause of the fire
• Working with insurance companies to determine the cause of a fire or explosion in order to settle claims with affected parties
• Conducting initial investigations into fires in order to determine their cause and origin, as well as identifying potential hazards that could lead to future fires

Fire Inspector Salary & Outlook

Fire inspectors’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the company size and location. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of overtime.

• Median Annual Salary: $52,500 ($25.24/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $121,000 ($58.17/hour)

The employment of fire inspectors is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.

The need to ensure the safety of buildings and their occupants will continue to drive demand for fire inspectors. Fire departments will need to hire more inspectors to cover the large number of new commercial buildings that are expected to be built in the next decade.

Fire Inspector Job Requirements

A fire inspector typically needs to have the following qualifications:

Education: Fire inspectors typically need a high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED). Some fire inspectors choose to pursue a two-year associate degree in fire science. This degree provides a foundation in fire science and safety principles.

Training & Experience: Fire inspectors receive most of their training through the completion of their education. They may also receive on-the-job training from a more experienced fire inspector or fire prevention officer. This training may include learning about the specific needs of the organization, the fire prevention policies and procedures and the use of any specialized equipment.

Certifications & Licenses: Fire inspectors typically need a certification to operate equipment such as a fire extinguisher and water hose, as well as the ability to pass a test on the laws governing fire inspection in their state. A certification can also help a fire inspector more easily find work, and may give her an advantage over uncertified competitors.

Fire Inspector Skills

Fire inspectors need the following skills in order to be successful:

Fire safety knowledge: Fire inspectors need to have a thorough understanding of fire safety regulations and standards. They need to know how to properly inspect a building for fire hazards and how to identify potential risks. This knowledge can help them develop effective fire prevention strategies and emergency response plans. Fire inspectors also need to know how to properly use firefighting equipment and how to handle a fire emergency.

Communication skills: Fire inspectors use communication skills to convey information to others. They also use these skills to explain complex information to the public and other professionals. Effective communication skills can help you to collaborate with others and share information to solve problems.

Attention to detail: Fire inspectors use attention to detail to ensure they notice any potential fire hazards in a building. They also use this skill to identify any potential safety issues that could lead to a fire. Fire inspectors use attention to detail to ensure they follow all safety protocols when inspecting a building. This includes knowing how to operate firefighting equipment and following all safety procedures when entering a building.

Problem-solving skills: Fire inspectors use problem-solving skills to identify potential hazards and develop solutions to prevent them. They use these skills to develop fire prevention plans, develop fire safety training programs and create fire safety regulations. Fire inspectors also use problem-solving skills to identify the cause of fires and determine the best way to put them out.

Ability to work under pressure: Fire inspectors often work in emergency situations, where time is of the essence. They may need to make quick decisions about the best course of action to take to minimize damage and save lives. Working under pressure can help fire inspectors make quick decisions and take action quickly.

Fire Inspector Work Environment

Fire inspectors work in a variety of settings, including office buildings, factories, and other commercial and industrial establishments. They also work in residential settings, such as apartments and single-family homes. Many fire inspectors are employed by local government agencies, such as fire departments, and work a standard 40-hour week. Some fire inspectors, however, work for private companies that provide fire protection services, and their work hours may vary depending on the needs of the client. Fire inspectors typically work indoors in well-lit and ventilated areas. However, they may be exposed to hazardous materials, such as asbestos, and to dangerous conditions, such as fire, when they inspect buildings.

Fire Inspector Trends

Here are three trends influencing how fire inspectors work. Fire inspectors will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

More Attention to Fire Prevention

As fire inspector professionals, you are in a unique position to help prevent fires from starting in the first place. This is because you have the knowledge and training necessary to identify potential hazards and make recommendations for how to fix them.

With more attention being paid to fire prevention, fire inspectors will be in high demand as they can help businesses and homeowners reduce their risk of fire damage. In order to stay ahead of the curve, fire inspectors should focus on developing skills in fire prevention and detection.

More Focus on Code Enforcement

Fire inspectors are increasingly being asked to focus on code enforcement rather than just fire inspection. This trend is due to the increasing awareness of the importance of code compliance in preventing fires and other safety hazards.

As fire inspectors become more focused on code enforcement, they will need to develop skills in areas such as building inspections, electrical inspections, and plumbing inspections. Additionally, fire inspectors will need to be able to communicate effectively with property owners and tenants in order to ensure that everyone is aware of the importance of code compliance.

Greater Use of Technology

The use of technology in the fire inspection industry is growing rapidly as fire departments look for ways to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Fire inspectors who are able to utilize technology in their work will be better equipped to handle the demands of the job. They will be able to access information quickly and easily, which will allow them to make more informed decisions about the buildings they inspect.

How to Become a Fire Inspector

Fire inspectors have a rewarding career ahead of them. They can move up the ranks to become chief fire inspector, assistant chief fire inspector, or even chief fire marshal. As they progress in their career, fire inspectors will need to keep up with new technologies and best practices in the field. They should also stay current on local, state, and federal regulations related to fire safety.

To advance their careers, fire inspectors should take courses in fire science, building construction, and public safety. They should also attend training programs offered by national organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Code Council (ICC).

Advancement Prospects

Many fire inspectors start their careers as firefighters and then are promoted to fire inspector positions. Some firefighters may become fire investigators, who determine the origin and cause of fires. Some fire inspectors may be promoted to supervisory or managerial positions. Some may become fire marshals, who are responsible for enforcing fire codes.

Many fire inspectors have previous experience as firefighters. Some have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fire science, public administration, or a related field. Some fire inspectors may become certified by the National Fire Protection Association or other organizations.

Fire Inspector Job Description Example

The [City/Town] Fire Department is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented professional to fill the role of Fire Inspector. The Fire Inspector is responsible for conducting fire code inspections of commercial and residential properties, investigating fires, and providing public education on fire safety. The ideal candidate will have excellent customer service skills, experience with fire code enforcement, and the ability to work independently. He or she must also be able to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and lift up to 50 pounds.

This is a great opportunity for a detail-oriented professional with excellent customer service skills to make a difference in the [City/Town].

Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct fire inspections of commercial and residential properties to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal fire codes
• Investigate the cause, origin, and circumstances of fires to determine if they are incendiary or accidental in nature
• Prepare comprehensive reports detailing the findings of each fire inspection and investigation
• Work closely with fire code enforcement officials to ensure that all properties under their jurisdiction are in compliance with fire safety regulations
• Educate property owners and occupants on fire safety best practices and proper use of fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment
• Assist in the development and implementation of fire prevention programs for both the public and private sector
• Serve as a liaison between the fire department and the community, providing information and education on fire safety and prevention
• Conduct regular training sessions for fire department personnel on fire inspection and investigation procedures
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in fire codes and regulations
• Keep abreast of new technology and developments in the field of fire safety
• Attend conferences and seminars related to fire safety and prevention
• Perform administrative duties such as maintaining records and files, preparing correspondence, and ordering supplies

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Associate’s degree in fire science, engineering, or related field preferred
• 3-5 years experience as a firefighter or in a related role
• IFSAC Fire Inspector I & II certification or NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector I & II certification required
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal fire codes
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, and other technical documents
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in fire science, engineering, or related field
• IFSAC Fire Officer I & II certification or NFPA 1021 Fire Officer I & II certification
• Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software
• Experience conducting fire code research

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