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Arson Investigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chumash Enterprises

Fire Captain

Shandon, CA

Administers and assists with programs such as weed abatement, arson investigation, public information programs, staff development, pre-fire planning, and maintaining pertinent maps; delegates ...

Fairfax County

Firefighter (Firefighter/EMT)

Fairfax, VA

$69K - $121K/yr

... arson investigation services. Approximately 2,000 uniformed, professional, and volunteer staff work across 39 strategically placed fire and rescue stations and administrative offices. FCFRD field ...

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Arson Investigation information

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$35.5K

$69.3K

$110.5K

How much do arson investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 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, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, followed by experience in law enforcement or fire service. Many agencies prefer candidates with training in fire science, criminal investigation, or related fields, and some require 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, an Arson Investigator can work in fire departments, law enforcement agencies, or private firms without being a firefighter. The role typically requires knowledge of fire science, investigation techniques, and often a background in law enforcement or criminal justice, but firefighting experience is not always mandatory.

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.

Are arson investigators in demand?

Arson investigators are in steady demand due to the need for fire scene analysis and crime solving in law enforcement and fire departments. Employment opportunities often require specialized training, certifications, and experience in fire science or criminal investigation, and job growth is expected to be consistent with other law enforcement roles.

What is the highest paying investigator job?

In arson investigation, senior roles such as fire investigation supervisors or forensic fire analysts tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, and specialized skills in fire science and forensic analysis can lead to higher-paying positions within the field.

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 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
What cities are hiring for Arson Investigation jobs? Cities with the most Arson Investigation job openings:
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 85% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 7% Physical, 92% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,327 per year, or $33.3 per hour.
ADA-Rikers Island Prosecution Bureau

ADA-Rikers Island Prosecution Bureau

City of New York

Bronx, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

City Of New York rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 77 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

486th of 649 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY:
The Bronx District Attorney's Office seeks a well-qualified staff whose diverse backgrounds contribute to serve the 1.4 million members of the Bronx County community and pursue a safer Bronx through fair justice. The Rikers Island Prosecutions Bureau (RIPB), located within the Investigations Division, investigates and prosecutes crimes committed on Rikers Island, which may include the following: contraband smuggling, arson, serious assaults, sex offenses, attempted murder and murder cases. RIPB is seeking an Investigative Assistant District Attorney to conduct long-term investigations and trials.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
Specific duties will include, but are not limited to, the following:
-Conduct investigations
-Organize and present grand jury presentations
-Prosecute the cases that arise from investigations, including meeting discovery obligations, drafting motions and responses
-Engage in plea negotiations, conduct hearings and trials
-Maintain current knowledge of investigative methods and proper application of relevant law
-Analyze trends of violence on Rikers Island and develop strategies for investigations and prosecutions
-Participate in meetings and conferences between the DA's Office and other law enforcement agencies
-Clear and effective oral and written communication
-Communicate across multiple organizational levels, both internally and externally
-Perform other duties as required
-Available nights, weekends, and holidays
-Available to rotate between the Bronx District Attorney's main office on 161st Street in Bronx County and the satellite office on Rikers Island.
ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEY (S - 30114

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:
-Juris Doctorate degree and admission to New York State Bar in Good Standing required
-US Citizenship and New York State residency are required as of the first day of employment
-3+ years of experience conducting investigative and trial work.
-Significant experience conducting long-term investigations into gang violence, contraband smuggling, arson, serious assaults, sex offenses, and other organized criminal activity
-Significant trial experience including, but not limited to, trials involving gangs, contraband smuggling, arson, serious assaults, sex offenses, attempted murder and murder cases
-A firm grasp of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)
-Ability to maintain confidentiality of information
-Strong legal writing skills
-Excellent people skills and demeanor
-Ability to maintain confidentiality of information
-Ability to exercise good judgment and strong ethics
-Excellent computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel
-Ability to work independently and collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders
-Ability to solve complex issues arising from investigations and case management problems from inception through conclusion both professionally and fairly
-Knowledge of NYS courts and the criminal justice system.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

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