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Arson Investigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hays County

Fire Investigator

San Marcos, TX

$17.14/hr

Collects evidence and identifies whether the fire was result of arson, negligent or intentional conduct. Initiates and completes assigned investigation and case reports and related documents.

Command Investigations

SIU Specialist - Experienced

$32 - $36/hr

Arson investigation reports * Home inspection reports * Medical records * Claims files * Evaluate all gathered information to support or refute allegations of material misrepresentation. * Prepare ...

Central California Intelligence Center

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Regional Fire Liaison

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$44/hr

... arson investigation. * Exceptional writing and public speaking skills. * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. * Ability to understand and follow security protocols and best practices with ...

Central California Intelligence Center

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Regional Fire Liaison

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$44/hr

... arson investigation. * Exceptional writing and public speaking skills. * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. * Ability to understand and follow security protocols and best practices with ...

Minnesota Department of Public Safety

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Fire Investigator - Job ID 95370

Blue Earth, MN · On-site

$32.97 - $48.60/hr

This position is also responsible for providing fire investigation information, instruction, and ... Additionally, this position is responsible for assisting with the development and delivery of arson ...

Minnesota Department of Public Safety

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Fire Investigator - Job ID 95370

Blue Earth, MN · On-site

$32.97 - $48.60/hr

This position is also responsible for providing fire investigation information, instruction, and ... Additionally, this position is responsible for assisting with the development and delivery of arson ...

SkyBridge Tactical

Contract Instructor (ATF)

Athens, AL

$18 - $23.25/hr

... arson investigation, explosives enforcement, and related criminal enforcement techniques. * Develop and Maintain Lesson Plans Prepare, review, and update lesson plans, training materials, and student ...

Franklin County Fiscal Court

Fire Chief

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$87K - $100K/yr

May perform arson investigation duties * Supervises, instructs, disciplines and evaluates three 24-hour crews at all stations and office staff * Prepares and administers departmental budget

City of La Porte, Texas

Deputy Fire Marshal

La Porte, TX · On-site

$28.84 - $36.05/hr

Arson Investigator License issued by Texas Commission on Fire Protection, preferred. * Basic Texas Peace Office License issued by Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Education ...

City of La Porte

Deputy Fire Marshal

La Porte, TX · On-site

$28.84 - $36.05/hr

Arson Investigator License issued by Texas Commission on Fire Protection, preferred. * Basic Texas Peace Office License issued by Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Education ...

Hyrum City

Firefighter/AEMT/Fire Inspector

Hyrum, UT · On-site

$27 - $42/hr

... arson investigation procedures. Considerable Skill in the evaluation of tactical and operational requirements of conflagration situations.; in the operation of Water Truck, Aerial Truck, pumping ...

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All JobsArson Investigation Jobs

Arson Investigation information

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$35.5K

$69.3K

$110.5K

How much do arson investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for arson investigation in the United States is $69,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become an arsonist investigator?

To become an arson investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by experience in law enforcement or fire service. Many agencies require specialized training in fire science, arson investigation techniques, and certification such as the Certified Fire Investigator (CFI) credential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of fire behavior are essential for this role.

Can you be an arson investigator without being a firefighter?

Yes, arson investigators do not need to be firefighters. They typically have backgrounds in law enforcement, fire science, or criminal investigation, and may require specialized training or certifications in fire investigation techniques. Firefighting experience is not a mandatory requirement for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Arson Investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Arson Investigator, you need a background in fire science, criminal investigation, and often law enforcement experience, supported by relevant certifications such as Certified Fire Investigator (CFI). Familiarity with evidence collection tools, fire modeling software, and forensic analysis systems is typically required. Keen attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills set top professionals apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for accurately determining fire causes, preserving evidence integrity, and providing clear testimony in legal proceedings.

How to get a job as a fire investigator?

To become a fire investigator, candidates typically need a background in fire science, criminal justice, or a related field, along with experience in firefighting or law enforcement. Certification from organizations like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) or state agencies can enhance job prospects, and strong analytical skills and knowledge of fire behavior are essential for success in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by arson investigators during an investigation?

Arson investigators often encounter challenges such as distinguishing between accidental and intentional fires, preserving evidence that is easily destroyed by fire, and working in hazardous environments with structural instability or harmful fumes. Additionally, they must coordinate closely with law enforcement, fire departments, and insurance representatives, requiring strong communication and collaboration skills. Successfully navigating these challenges is crucial for accurately determining the cause of a fire and supporting legal proceedings.

What is the demand for arson investigators?

The demand for arson investigators is steady, especially in regions with high fire incident rates and active law enforcement agencies. Employment opportunities depend on government budgets, crime rates, and the need for specialized fire investigation skills, often requiring certifications and experience in fire science or forensic analysis.

What is the difference between Arson Investigation vs Fire Inspector?

AspectArson InvestigationFire Inspector
Required CredentialsFire science degree, certifications like Certified Fire Investigator (CFI)Fire science or related degree, certifications like Fire Inspector I/II
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, laboratories, investigationsInspection sites, buildings, code enforcement
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, fire departmentsMunicipal fire departments, building departments

While both roles involve fire safety, Arson Investigators focus on determining the cause of fires, especially suspected arson cases, often working with law enforcement. Fire Inspectors primarily enforce fire codes and inspect buildings for safety compliance. Both roles require fire science knowledge and certifications, but their daily tasks and objectives differ significantly.

What is arson investigation?

Arson investigation is the process of determining the origin and cause of fires that are suspected to be deliberately set. Investigators analyze fire scenes, collect evidence, interview witnesses, and work closely with law enforcement to identify potential suspects. Their goal is to establish whether a fire was accidental or intentional, and to support criminal prosecutions when arson is confirmed. This work requires specialized training in fire science and forensic techniques.
More about Arson Investigation jobs
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What states have the most Arson Investigation jobs? States with the most job openings for Arson Investigation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Arson Investigation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Arson Investigation jobs are:
Arson Investigation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Arson Investigation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 11% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 68% Contract, 15% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,327 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Fire Investigator

Hays County

San Marcos, TX

$17.14/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, include the responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics listed below. This list of responsibilities is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

Other duties may be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Summary Under direct or indirect supervision, assists the Office of Emergency Services and the Hays County Fire Marshal in conducting fire inspections and/or fire investigations.

Responsibilities Investigates and determines cause, origin, and circumstances of fires in accordance with Chapter 352 of the Local Government Code. Investigates any incident that relates to explosives, explosions or any damage caused by an explosive or explosions in accordance with Chapter 352 of the Local Government Code. Enforces all state and county regulations or laws that relate to fires, explosions, or damages of any kind caused by fire or explosions in accordance with Chapter 352 of the Local Government Code.

Enforces all state and local laws. Collects evidence and identifies whether the fire was result of arson, negligent or intentional conduct. Initiates and completes assigned investigation and case reports and related documents.

Conducts follow-up investigations. Prepares affidavits for arrest warrants, search warrants and subpoenas and executes them. Prepares cases for presentation to prosecutor's office.

Testifies before grand jury, justice of the peace court, state and federal courts. Takes and preserves witness statements, affidavits, and depositions to prepare for the filing of a complaint charging arson, attempted arson, conspiracy to defraud, or any other crime. Documents and takes photographs of fire scene, makes sketches, gathers and preserves evidence.

Conducts interviews with witnesses, suspects, and those with interests in the property. Maintains records of investigations. Files criminal citations with the Justice of the Peace in their respective precincts.

Conducts fire inspections of businesses and homes to provide information on how to better protect property and life. Schedules and responds to citizen requests for fire inspections. Performs inspections of homes, businesses, schools and other structures.

Detects fire hazards and makes recommendations for corrections. Performs timely follow-up inspections to insure compliance. Performs inspections of county owned and leased facilities.

Approves fire protection equipment, construction, and fire safety plans for organizations and new construction within the County. Maintains records and reports of inspections. Makes public education presentations.

Trains emergency service organizations, community awareness organizations, and emergency responders on fire safety, fire protection, fire investigation, emergency rescue and emergency response. Plans, coordinates and assists with all county fire districts, volunteer fire departments, and other emergency services agencies in relation to fire protection and emergency services functions. Develops strategies and techniques of fire protection and safety that best fits Hays County.

Conducts arson investigations any time of the day or night in any type of weather. Maintains all current certification and continuing education requirements through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) and the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP). Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience Two years of coursework form an accredited college or university with a major in fire science, police science, criminal justice, public administration, or a related field and three years of experience in law enforcement or fire protection. Other Qualifications, Certificates, Licenses, Registrations Possess current certification as, at minimum, a Basic Fire/Arson Investigator Certification with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) within one year of appointment or Possess current certification as, at a minimum, a Basic Inspector license from Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) preferred. Must possess a valid Texas driver's license.

Preferred current certification as a Basic Peace Officer License under the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). Ability to maintain continuing education requirements as outlined by TCOLE.

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