Fire Investigator - Chicago-Milwaukee-Madison (CFEI or CFI Required)

Rimkus; Illinois; On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable investigations firm in Illinois is seeking a Fire Investigator to determine the origin and cause of fires and explosions. The role requires a high level of analytical skills, strong communication abilities, and experience in forensic analysis. Candidates should have relevant certifications and be capable of local travel. This position offers a dynamic work environment with responsibilities in both office and field settings.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years experience in fire investigation or a related field.
• Ability to conduct forensic fire analyses and prepare reports.
• Ability to interact with clients and present effectively.

Responsibilities

• Determine the origin and cause of fires and explosions.
• Conduct site inspections and forensic analyses.
• Prepare detailed reports and provide testimony as needed.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Technical writing

Knowledge of computer software

Education

AAS in Fire Science or related field

IAAI-CFI certification

NAFI-CFEI with the ability to obtain IAAI-CFI

Tools

Microsoft Office

Computer-assisted engineering software

Job description

Overview

Investigates, assesses, and determines the origin and cause of fires and explosions in residences, commercial/industrial buildings, vehicles, heavy equipment, marine equipment, and other property. Analyzes fire/explosion scenes, burn patterns, debris, mechanical components, and electrical systems/components to determine the origin and cause. Conducts fraud analyses for possible incendiary-related losses. Prepares detailed written reports of findings that illustrate the conclusions/opinions, observations, and analysis of the investigation—works under general supervision, exercising initiative and independent judgment in the performance of assigned tasks.

Essential Job Functions

• Determines the origin and cause of fires and explosions involving structures, equipment, vehicles, heavy equipment, agricultural equipment, and other losses.
• Assists in securing the fire/explosion scene to prevent removal or damage of potential evidence.
• Conducts on-site, hands-on forensic fire analysis. This includes scene photography, interviewing witnesses and gathering information, taking possession of items, cause and origin determination, report preparation, and providing testimony in deposition and trial.
• Searches for, identifies, collects, and labels any potential evidence/items from the fire scene, including devices used to set, start, or further the progress of the fire; protects the chain of custody of potential evidence/items.
• Provides technical and scientific support to clients for subrogation and litigation purposes.
• Conducts code compliance research, including electrical, gas, fire, building, and installation code violations.
• Facilitates and helps present continuing education seminars on fire-related topics.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Experience, Education, and Certifications

• IAAI-CFI certification preferred.
• A minimum of NAFI-CFEI with the ability to obtain an IAAI-CFI within 18 months.
• 5+ years of related work experience in fire investigation or a related field.
• AAS in Fire Science, Fire Investigation, Forensic Science, or related experience as a fire investigator, firefighter, or law enforcement officer/investigator.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Must have a high level of analytical skills. Work requires continual attention to detail with the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Must be able to interact and communicate with clients at all levels (e.g., internal and external).
• Must have knowledge of a variety of computer software applications, including but not limited to Microsoft Office applications and computer-assisted engineering and design software.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical reports, journals, financial reports, and legal documents.
• Ability to write scopes of work clearly and coherently, budget estimates, schedules, reports of findings, proposals, general correspondence, and other technical documents.
• Ability to respond to inquiries from internal and external clients.
• Capable of effectively presenting information to top management, clients, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

Physical Demands, Overtime, and Travel Requirements

Physical Demands - Work is performed both in an office setting and at outside locations (i.e., client’s office, industrial, construction, and/or residential sites). The employee is frequently required to climb ladders, walk on roofs, and work in space-limited areas. Employees must wear a tight-fitting respirator during investigations. Employees may be required to shovel fire debris, move furniture and other household/commercial items, and operate lifts as needed. Employees may lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The employee must be sharp, focused, and alert when conducting site inspections, interacting with clients, preparing written reports of findings, and testifying in a deposition or trial. Clear vision and depth perception are also necessary.

Overtime - This position is classified as salaried with an exempt FLSA status. Regular working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with one hour for lunch. There will be periods where overtime will be required, which the employee will need to comply with to meet the demands of the position.

Travel Requirements - This position requires up to 50% local travel. Some out-of-area and overnight travel may be required. Valid driver’s license and reliable form of transportation.

Rimkus is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

This job description is subject to change and does not constitute a contract for employment or a guarantee of continued employment.

Rimkus values a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages qualified individuals to apply.