1

Arson Investigation Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

... and arson cases and providing expert witness testimony, into a recognized global leader in ... Our forensic investigation, engineering and environmental services teams around the world share a ...

... and arson cases and providing expert witness testimony, into a recognized global leader in ... Our forensic investigation, engineering and environmental services teams around the world share a ...

... and arson cases and providing expert witness testimony, into a recognized global leader in ... Our forensic investigation, engineering and environmental services teams around the world share a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Arson Investigation information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$37K

$72.3K

$115.3K

How much do arson investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for arson investigation in Riverside, CA is $72,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,900.00 and $83,500.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Arson Investigation jobs in Riverside, CA? For Arson Investigation jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Arson Investigation jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Arson Investigation jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Arson Investigation jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Arson Investigation job openings:
Infographic showing various Arson Investigation job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 24% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 56% Contract, 12% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,327 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

Fire Investigator, IAAI - CFI

Efi global

Orange, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

The 'Apply with SEEK option' will be utilized for International applicants, mainly Australia. If this does not apply to you please use the 'Apply' option.

IF YOU CARE, THERE'S A PLACE FOR YOU HERE

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. Click here to learn more about EFI Global.

PRIMARY PURPOSE:To investigate fire events to determine origin, cause, and responsibility in accordance with assignments from clients or assigned legal counsel. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Accepts assignments from customers for investigation of losses or claims and pursues investigation in accordance with the specific needs of the assignment.
  • Determines the origin and cause of the loss/claim under investigation and identifies any potential third-party responsibility for subrogation potential.
  • Maintains required reporting commitments to client in accordance with EFI's standard procedures.
  • Promotes and markets utilization of EFI services in the insurance industry and within assigned territory
  • Serves as a liaison between the insurance industry and law enforcement/fire service personnel.
  • Investigates losses/claims with illegal, fraudulent or subrogation aspects in accordance with assignment from client or assigned attorney representing insurer.
  • 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 that may assist in concluding a factual and complete investigation.
  • Develops 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 up-to-date information in 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.
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Travels as required.
Education & LicensingBachelor's degree from an accredited college or university preferred. Minimum certification requirement for consideration, Certified Fire & Explosion Investigator (CFEI). IAAI Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI) certification is preferred. Will be required to obtain the IAAI-CFI certification within 6 months of employment.Experience
Three (3) years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience required.Skills & Knowledge
  • Good oral and written communication
  • PC literate, including 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 deadlinesPhysical:
  • 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 talkingNEXT STEPSIf your application is selected to advance to the next round, you will receive an e-mail notification or phone call from a recruiter to schedule an initial call.

#LI-SC2 #LI-Remote

#CertifiedFireInvestigator #FireInvestigator #OriginAndCause #ArsonInvestigation #FireScience #ForensicInvestigation #IAAICFI #NAFICFEI

#InsuranceClaims #ExpertWitness #ElectricalFireInvestigation #FireAnalysis #RemoteWork #LitigationWork #JoinOurTeam

As required by law, Sedgwick provides a reasonable range of compensation for roles that may be hired in jurisdictions requiring pay transparency in job postings. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide range of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, and cost of specific location. For the jurisdiction noted in this job posting only, the range of starting pay for this role is $75,000- $ 90,000. A comprehensive benefits package is offered including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, 401k and matching, PTO, disability and life insurance, employee assistance, flexible spending or health savings account, and other additional voluntary benefits.Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Diego Fair Chance Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act, and all other applicable laws.The statements contained in this document are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a colleague assigned to this description. They are not intended to constitute a comprehensive list of functions, duties, or local variances. Management retains the discretion to add or to change the duties of the position at any time.

The statements contained in this document are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a colleague assigned to this description. They are not intended to constitute a comprehensive list of functions, duties, or local variances. Management retains the discretion to add or to change the duties of the position at any time.

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Diego Fair Chance Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act, and all other applicable laws.

Sedgwickis an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace