Senior Fire Investigator, IAAI-CFI

EFI Global; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

EFI Global, a leading engineering and forensic investigations firm in Dallas, seeks a Fire Investigator to independently conduct origin-and-cause analyses of fires in commercial buildings or residences. You will manage claims, gather evidence, interview witnesses, review records, and prepare reports suitable for depositions and trials.

The role demands strong communication, investigative and analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team while

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• IAAI-CFI certification preferred.
• CFEI certification is a minimum requirement for consideration.

Responsibilities

• Investigates assigned claims suspected of insurance fraud, including large loss, large fire loss, and multiple claims.
• Investigates site and provides expert testimony on origin & cause of fires for depositions and trials.
• Maintains and documents claims files with confidentiality and reports developments to management.
• Reviews investigation outcomes and provides guidance to claims leadership on resolution.
• Cultivates relationships with government agencies and information bureaus to assist investigations.
• Interviews witnesses and informs independent conclusions on negligence and law violations.
• Conducts thorough inspections of public records related to land deeds, mortgages, liens, etc.
• Maintains technical competency with regard to privacy laws and public record access.
• May provide investigative guidance to Fire Investigator team members.

Skills

Strong oral and written communication

PC literate (Microsoft Office)

Organizational & time management

Interpersonal skills

Analytical & interpretive skills

Investigative skills

Attention to detail

Independent or team work

Education

Bachelor's degree

IAAI-CFI certification

CFEI certification

Tools

N/A

Job description

EFI Global is a full-service engineering, fire investigation, environmental, health and safety, and specialty consulting services firm serving a variety of industries in both the public and private sectors. Over the last four decades, we have grown from a boutique firm specializing in handling insurance fraud and arson cases and providing expert witness testimony, into a recognized global leader in engineering failure analysis, origin‑and‑cause investigations, environmental consulting, laboratory testing and specialty consulting. Our forensic investigation, engineering and environmental services teams around the world share a dedication to expertise, quality and demonstrating to customers that caring counts. Each of our more than 700 professional engineers, fire investigators, architects and scientists was selected for their technical proficiency, in‑depth industry knowledge and commitment to professional integrity. Together, our diverse backgrounds and collective insights empower clients to make better‑informed business decisions. EFI’s combination of global solutions and local expertise has earned the firm a reputation for delivering timely responses that consistently meet our clients’ expectations—anytime, anywhere.

PRIMARY PURPOSE

To independently conduct extensive and detailed investigations to determine origin & cause of fires and explosions, primarily involving structures and determining the cause of fires in commercial buildings or residences.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS And RESPONSIBILITIES

• Investigates assigned claims suspected of insurance fraud, including large loss, large fire loss, and multiple claims.
• Ensures that assigned cases are investigated and reported back to the requesting party in adherence to best practices. Anticipates training needs of customers based on customer exposure and antifraud initiatives.
• Investigates site and provides expert testimony based on determination of the origin & cause of fires and relates findings in a clear and concise manner in depositions and trials.
• Maintains assigned claims files in a confidential manner; documents all relevant facts pertaining to files in the appropriate claims handling system(s) and keeps management informed of developments that impact claims results.
• Reviews and makes recommendations on outcomes of investigations in a prompt and expeditious manner. Provides guidance and recommendations to claims leadership and associates on claims resolution.
• Develops and maintains rapport and cooperation with federal, state and local government agencies, as well as private information bureaus that can assist in investigative efforts.
• Identifies and interviews all witnesses or involved persons who may possess information or knowledge pertaining to incident under investigation: motive, opportunity or any other information or evidence. Independently concludes investigations and determines negligence and violation of laws.
• Possesses necessary knowledge and expertise required to conduct thorough inspection of available public records including land deeds, mortgages, liens, suits, judgments, marriage and divorce records, etc.
• Maintains and pursues technical competency within area of specialization with regard to existing laws pertaining to rights of privacy and availability of public records to assure that all investigations are conducted in a completely legal and ethical manner.
• May provide investigative guidance to Fire Investigator team members.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS And RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Supports the organization's quality program(s).
• Travels as required.

Qualifications

Education & Licensing

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
• IAAI Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI‑CFI) certification is preferred.
• Certified Fire & Explosion Investigator (CFEI) certification, minimum requirement for consideration.

Experience

Five (5) years of fire investigation experience or equivalent combination of education and experience required.

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong oral and written communication skills
• PC literate, including advanced Microsoft Office products
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Good analytical and interpretive skills
• Strong investigative skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment
• Ability to meet or exceed Performance Competencies

WORK ENVIRONMENT

When applicable and appropriate, consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations.

Mental

Clear and conceptual thinking ability; excellent judgment and discretion; ability to handle work‑related stress; ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously; and ability to meet deadlines.

Physical

• Must be able to stand and/or walk for long periods of time.
• Must be able to kneel, squat or bend.
• Must be able to work outdoors in hot and/or cold weather conditions.
• Have the ability to climb, crawl, stoop, kneel, reaching/working overhead.
• Be able lift/carry up to 50 pounds.
• Be able to push/pull up to 100 pounds.
• Be able to drive up to 4 hours per day.

Auditory/Visual: Hearing, vision and talking

Sedgwick is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug‑Free Workplace.