Fire Investigators

Course Advisor; United States; On-site; USD 36,400 - 95,330; Full time

Job summary

Course Advisor is seeking a Fire Investigator to conduct investigations into fire and explosion causes. Key responsibilities include packaging evidence, teaching investigation techniques, and testifying in court. Essential skills include active listening, critical thinking, and complex problem solving. The role offers an average salary ranging from $36,400 to $95,330, with excellent job growth projected over the coming years in the United States. This position requires a detail-oriented professional with strong analytical abilities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct investigations to determine causes of fires and explosions.
• Swear out warrants and process suspected arsonists.
• Teach fire investigation techniques to other personnel.
• Package evidence securely for protection.
• Testify in court regarding fire cases.
• Analyze evidence to determine probable causes of incidents.

Skills

Active Listening

Speaking

Critical Thinking

Writing

Complex Problem Solving

Reading Comprehension

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Web browser software

Microsoft Access

Email software

Job description

Fire Investigator

Occupation Description Conduct investigations to determine causes of fires and explosions.

Life As a Fire Investigator

What Do Fire Investigators Do On a Daily Basis?

• Swear out warrants, arrest, and process suspected arsonists.
• Teach fire investigation techniques to other firefighter personnel.
• Package collected pieces of evidence in securely closed containers, such as bags, crates, or boxes, to protect them.
• Testify in court cases involving fires, suspected arson, and false alarms.
• Analyze evidence and other information to determine probable cause of fire or explosion.
• Instruct children about the dangers of fire.

Fire Investigator Required Skills

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Types of Fire Investigator

• Fire Marshal
• State Fire Marshal
• Canine Handler (K9 Handler)
• Investigation Lieutenant
• Fire Investigator

Fire Investigator Employment Estimates

In 2016, there were an estimated 12,300 jobs in the United States for Fire Investigators. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 7.3% above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 900 new jobs for Fire Investigators by 2026, with an expected 1,400 positions per year.

The states with the most job growth for Fire Investigators are Idaho, Vermont, and Arkansas; those with the least are New Jersey, Rhode Island, and North Dakota.

What is the Average Salary of a Fire Investigator

The average yearly salary ranges between $36,400 and $95,330. Fire Investigators who work in California, Oregon, or the District of Columbia earn the highest salaries.

Tools & Technology Used by Fire Investigators

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Word
• Web browser software
• Microsoft Access
• Email software