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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.

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.

  • 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.

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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.

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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.

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Where Fire Inspectors Work

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Below are examples of industries where Fire Inspectors work:

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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.

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