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Atf Fire Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Contract Instructor (ATF)

Athens, AL

$18 - $23.25/hr

... investigative needs. * Promote Safe and Professional Training Environments Enforce safety protocols, especially during live-fire or explosives demonstrations, and ensure adherence to ATF and federal ...

$51.31/hr

Lead dissemination to investigators * Ensure all scientific procedures are properly documented ... firing outside ATF facilities. * Ensure compliance with approved test fire training plans.

Site Manager

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$51.31/hr

Lead dissemination to investigators * Ensure all scientific procedures are properly documented ... firing outside ATF facilities. * Ensure compliance with approved test fire training plans.

Lead dissemination to investigators * Ensure all scientific procedures are properly documented ... firing outside ATF facilities. * Ensure compliance with approved test fire training plans.

$29.07/hr

... fire response and be able to implement firefighting tactics * Respond to investigation of smoke ... Obtain and maintain an ATF EPQ. * Ability to participate in specialty teams; HAZWOPER, confined ...

Functional Safety Engineer

Mchenry, MS · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

... e.g., ATF, DoD, state fire marshal). * Serve as a primary point of contact and subject matter ... Investigate all energetic materials-related incidents, near misses, and non-conformances ...

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Atf Fire Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do atf fire investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for atf fire investigator in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to become an fire investigator?

Becoming an ATF fire investigator typically requires a background in fire science, law enforcement, or a related field, along with specialized training and certification. Candidates often need experience in fire investigation, knowledge of fire behavior, and familiarity with investigative tools and procedures, making it a competitive and skill-dependent process.

How hard is it to get a job at the ATF?

Becoming an ATF Fire Investigator requires a combination of law enforcement or investigative experience, relevant training, and often a background in firearms or forensics. The hiring process is competitive and involves multiple steps, including background checks, interviews, and physical fitness assessments. Candidates typically need to meet strict qualifications and demonstrate specialized skills to secure the position.

What are ATF Fire Investigators?

ATF Fire Investigators are specially trained federal agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) who investigate the origins and causes of fires and explosions. Their work often involves determining whether a fire was accidental or deliberately set (arson). They collect evidence at fire scenes, interview witnesses, and work closely with local fire departments and law enforcement agencies. Their findings can be used in criminal prosecutions and insurance investigations. ATF Fire Investigators also provide expert testimony in court and assist in training other agencies on fire investigation techniques.

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

To thrive as an ATF Fire Investigator, you need a background in criminal justice or fire science, specialized training in fire and arson investigation, and often law enforcement experience. Proficiency in using fire scene analysis tools, evidence collection systems, and forensic software, as well as certifications like Certified Fire Investigator (CFI), is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help investigators collaborate with agencies and present findings clearly. These skills ensure accurate determination of fire causes, support successful prosecutions, and enhance public safety.

How much do ATF investigators make?

ATF fire investigators typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and rank. They often require specialized training in fire science and investigation techniques, and may receive overtime pay due to irregular hours and on-call duties.

What is the difference between Atf Fire Investigator vs Fire Marshal?

AspectAtf Fire InvestigatorFire Marshal
CertificationsFire investigation certifications, law enforcement credentialsFire prevention, inspection, and code enforcement certifications
Work EnvironmentInvestigating fires, often in federal or law enforcement settingsInspecting buildings, enforcing fire codes, public safety
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies, law enforcement, fire departmentsLocal government, fire departments, municipalities

While both Atf Fire Investigators and Fire Marshals work to ensure fire safety, Atf Fire Investigators focus on investigating arson and fire-related crimes within federal and law enforcement contexts. Fire Marshals primarily handle fire prevention, inspections, and code enforcement at the local level. Their roles overlap in fire investigation but differ in scope, certification, and work environment.

Does the ATF do fire investigations?

An ATF Fire Investigator is responsible for examining fire scenes to determine the origin and cause of fires, often related to criminal activity such as arson or illegal firearm use. They use specialized training, forensic tools, and investigative techniques to gather evidence and support law enforcement efforts.

What are some of the unique challenges an ATF Fire Investigator faces during an investigation?

ATF Fire Investigators often work in challenging and sometimes hazardous environments, as they are required to examine fire and explosion scenes that may still pose safety risks. Gathering physical evidence can be complicated due to structural instability, weather conditions, and potential contamination of the scene. Additionally, they must collaborate closely with local fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and sometimes testify in court, making strong communication and documentation skills essential. Managing these challenges while ensuring thorough, unbiased investigations is a key aspect of the role.
More about Atf Fire Investigator jobs
What states have the most Atf Fire Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Atf Fire Investigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Atf Fire Investigator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 17% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 17% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Branch Chief, Fire Programs and Training Branch)

Forensic Auditors | Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Huntsville, AL

$134K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

The Supervisory Criminal Investigator serves as a Branch Chief in the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fire Investigation & Arson Enforcement Division, Fire Programs and Training Branch. The Branch Chief provides investigative expertise and oversight for criminal investigations and organizational performance relating to law enforcement programs.Qualifications:
To qualify for the Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Branch Chief) position at the GS-14 grade level, candidates must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-13) by the closing date of this announcement.
Specialized experience is demonstrated experience, which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform successfully the duties of this position. Experience must be in the normal line of progression or must be related to the work of the position advertised and must be reflected in resume.
Specialized experience must include all of the following:
  • Leading and providing accurate information and guidance regarding investigative procedures (i.e., arrest and processing, arrest principles, handling of dangerous evidence; AND
  • Conducting surveys, studies, and analyses to identify problems and provide solutions to highly complex and sensitive issues; AND
  • Interpreting and applying ATF's statutory responsibilities and related information of Federal, State, and local jurisdictions, as well as regulated firearms and explosives industries; AND
  • Preparing reports of progress, findings, recommendations, and impacts of task force groups.

CFI preferred but not required.
Your resume must support your responses to the application questionnaire and the qualification requirements. Failure to do so may result in an ineligible rating.See the Required Documents section for important notes about what must be included in your resume.

Education:Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone. No substitution of education for experience is permitted.Employment Type: OTHER