Fire Prevention & Inspection Specialist

Buncombe County Government; Asheville (NC); On-site; USD 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Buncombe County Government seeks an Assistant Fire Marshal to support fire prevention through inspections, education, code enforcement, and investigations.

The role requires strong fire service experience, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently and with partner agencies to protect lives, property, and community wellbeing. Work weeks are Sun–Sat on a 2‑week rotating schedule; anticipated start December 14, 2026.

Qualifications

• High school education or equivalent with 3 years in fire service or related.
• Possession of a valid NC driver's license.
• Level I Fire Inspection Certification within 1 year; Level III within 5 years.
• NC Fire Investigator Technician within 4 years; NC Fire/Arson Investigator within 10 years.
• Continuing education as required by NC State Fire Marshal.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections of commercial structures and multi-family housing for compliance with fire and life safety regulations.
• Review building plans to ensure proper fire safety measures are included, such as sprinkler and fire alarm systems.
• Present public and private fire safety and prevention programs and fire education as requested.
• Enforce fire codes for new construction and existing buildings for occupant safety.
• Conduct origin and cause investigations and complete reports on structure and vehicle fires; respond to large-scale hazmat incidents as needed.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Fire codes knowledge

Plan review

Investigations

Public education

Communication

Interagency coordination

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

NC Level I Fire Inspection Certification within 1 year

NC Level III Fire Inspection Certification within 5 years

NC Fire Investigator Technician within 4 years

NC Fire/Arson Investigator within 10 years

Job description

Buncombe County Government seeks an Assistant Fire Marshal to support fire prevention through inspections, education, code enforcement, and investigations.

The role requires strong fire service experience, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently and with partner agencies to protect lives, property, and community wellbeing. Work weeks are Sun–Sat on a 2‑week rotating schedule; anticipated start December 14, 2026.