Fire Inspectors and Investigators: Schools and Careers

Fire Inspectors And Investigators - Career Information

Fire Inspectors

Fire inspectors inspect structures and equipment to make sure they adhere to state and local fire codes. They may also collaborate with planners and developers to review and approve plans for new structures and to inspect buildings that are being constructed. Fire inspectors identify and review with property owners the corrective actions required to bring structures into compliance with fire codes, laws, regulations and standards.

Some sample job titles include fire marshal, fire safety inspector, fire prevention inspector, state fire marshal, fire official and deputy fire marshal.

Responsibilities

• Provide and explain fire prevention information and fire code requirements to contractors, architects, developers, engineers, fire service personnel and the general public
• Inspect structures for fire code violations and hazardous conditions
• Perform fire code compliance to make sure corrective actions have been taken in cases where violations were discovered
• Attend training classes in order to stay current with fire safety and prevention issues and fire fighting procedures
• Write reports regarding fire inspections performed, fire code violations and corrective recommendations offered
• Inspect and test fire detection systems and fire protection systems to ensure they have been installed in accordance with applicable codes, laws, regulations, ordinances and standards
• Develop or review fire exit plans
• Perform inspection and acceptance testing of newly installed fire protection systems

Job Characteristics

They spend a lot of their time at sites performing inspections. They should be well organized and detailed oriented. A fire inspector also needs good interpersonal and communication skills.

Employment Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the employment growth of fire inspectors to be as fast as the average for all occupations. The employment of fire inspectors should grow along with the population. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those seeking fire inspector jobs should expect keen competition. In addition, the median annual earnings in 2008 for fire inspectors was $53,030.

Education, Certification, and Licensing

Most fire inspectors have acquired experience in fire suppression and have a high school diploma. They receive on-the-job training or attend training academies.

Resources

• National Fire Academy

Major Employers

The primary employers are local governments and state governments.

Schools for Fire Inspectors And Investigators are listed in the column to the left.

The Top Cities tab shows employment statistics for Fire Inspectors And Investigators by major metro area.

The Top Industries tab shows which industries have the most jobs for Fire Inspectors And Investigators, along with salary data by industry.

The Find Schools tab lets you search for schools by field of study, degree level, and location.