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

Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc; Illinois; Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm in forensic analysis is seeking a Fire Investigator to determine the origin and cause of fires and explosions. You will perform on-site forensic analysis and provide technical support for clients during investigations. Ideal candidates will have 5+ years in fire investigation or related fields, possess strong analytical skills, and be able to communicate effectively. This role includes local travel and may require some overtime.

Benefits

Diverse and inclusive workplace

Opportunities for continuing education

Qualifications

• 5+ years of related work experience in fire investigation or a related field.
• Ability to obtain IAAI-CFI within 18 months.
• Experience as a fire investigator, firefighter, or law enforcement officer/investigator.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the origin and cause of fires and explosions.
• Conduct on-site forensic fire analysis.
• Provide technical support for subrogation and litigation.

Skills

Analytical skills

Client communication

Knowledge of computer software applications

Report writing

Presentation skills

Education

AAS in Fire Science

IAAI-CFI certification preferred

NAFI-CFEI

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, including scene photography, interviewing witnesses, 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 potential evidence/items from the fire scene, including devices used to set 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.
• 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 sites, industrial, construction, and/or residential sites). The employee is frequently required to climb ladders, walk on roofs, and work in space-limited areas. Employees may wear a tight-fitting respirator during investigations. They may be required to shovel fire debris, move furniture and other items, and operate lifts as needed. May lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Clear vision and depth perception are necessary.

Overtime - This position is salaried with an exempt FLSA status. Regular hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with one hour for lunch. Periods of overtime may be required to meet position demands.

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

At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions.

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.

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Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.