What You Need to Know About Fire Inspector
Fire Inspector Job Description Inspect buildings and equipment to detect fire hazards and enforce state and local regulations.
Fire Inspector Responsibilities
- Write detailed reports of fire inspections performed, fire code violations observed, and corrective recommendations offered.
- Collect fees for permits and licenses.
- Present and explain fire code requirements and fire prevention information to architects, contractors, attorneys, engineers, developers, fire service personnel, and the general public.
- Testify in court regarding fire code and fire safety issues.
- Inspect properties that store, handle, and use hazardous materials to ensure compliance with laws, codes, and regulations, and issue hazardous materials permits to facilities found in compliance.
- Search for clues as to the cause of a fire, once the fire is completely extinguished.
Featured schools near , edit
Qualities of a Fire Inspector
Below is a list of the skills most Fire Inspectors say are important on the job.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
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.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Quality Control Analysis: Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Related Job Titles
- Code Official
- Fire Sprinkler Foreman
- Smoke Inspector
- Fire Extinguisher Inspector
- Fire Code Inspector
Job Demand for Fire Inspectors
There were about 12,300 jobs for Fire Inspector in 2016 (in the United States). New jobs are being produced at a rate of 7.3% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 900 new jobs for Fire Inspector by 2026. The BLS estimates 1,400 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Fire Inspector are Idaho, Vermont, and Arkansas. Watch out if you plan on working in New Jersey, Rhode Island, or North Dakota. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
What is the Average Salary of a Fire Inspector
The salary for Fire Inspectors ranges between about $36,400 and $95,330 a year.
Fire Inspectors who work in California, Oregon, or District of Columbia, make the highest salaries.
How much do Fire Inspectors make in different U.S. states?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $68,630 |
Arizona | $64,190 |
Arkansas | $44,310 |
California | $103,830 |
Colorado | $74,790 |
Connecticut | $74,280 |
Delaware | $58,820 |
District of Columbia | $75,800 |
Florida | $63,040 |
Georgia | $52,010 |
Illinois | $64,760 |
Indiana | $53,670 |
Iowa | $64,680 |
Kansas | $53,210 |
Kentucky | $43,640 |
Louisiana | $50,990 |
Maine | $54,600 |
Maryland | $64,490 |
Massachusetts | $66,710 |
Michigan | $59,740 |
Minnesota | $68,210 |
Missouri | $44,930 |
New Hampshire | $62,700 |
New Jersey | $55,890 |
New Mexico | $52,010 |
New York | $66,580 |
North Carolina | $52,760 |
North Dakota | $61,850 |
Ohio | $66,650 |
Oklahoma | $68,080 |
Oregon | $89,860 |
Pennsylvania | $56,890 |
Rhode Island | $56,130 |
South Carolina | $53,680 |
Tennessee | $62,660 |
Texas | $63,540 |
Utah | $58,000 |
Vermont | $58,790 |
Virginia | $55,540 |
Washington | $81,430 |
West Virginia | $47,190 |
Wisconsin | $57,460 |
What Tools do Fire Inspectors Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Fire Inspectors:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
How to Become a Fire Inspector
Learn what Fire Inspector education requirements there are.
How many years of work experience do I need?
Where Fire Inspectors Work
Below are examples of industries where Fire Inspectors work:
Similar Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Fire Inspector might also be interested in the following careers:
Are you already one of the many Fire Inspector in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:
References:
Image Credit: Airman 1st Class Sergio A. Gamboa via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
Featured Schools
Request Info | Southern New Hampshire University You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you get there. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you. Find your degree from over 200 online programs. Learn More > |