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Civilian Fire Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Geneva, IL

Fire Marshal

Geneva, IL · On-site

$108K - $152K/yr

Oversee fire inspections, new construction inspections, plan reviews, and fire code enforcement ... Candidates should be aware that this position is a civilian position and does not participate in an ...

City of Mesa

Civilian Paramedic

Arizona City, AZ · On-site

$27.42 - $35.03/hr

Mesa Fire and Medical Department Paramedic Mesa Fire and Medical Department (MFMD) currently has ... Must not be on the Office of Inspector General (OIG) list of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE)

New

Commander, Navy Installations Command

$123K - $160K/yr

... to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326. * Males born ... Fire Officer III, Fire Instructor II, Fire Inspector II and Hazmat Incident Commander. These ...

New

U.S. Coast Guard

Assistant Fire Chief

Cape May, NJ · On-site +1

$68K - $88K/yr

Being a Coast Guard civilian makes you a valuable member of the Coast Guard team. Typical work ... Reviewing inspection reports for technical violations cited and tracks organization's enforcement ...

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Civilian Fire Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do civilian fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for civilian fire inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you become a fire inspector without being a firefighter?

Civilian fire inspectors do not need to be firefighters, but they typically require knowledge of fire codes, safety regulations, and inspection procedures. Many inspectors have backgrounds in building inspection, code enforcement, or related fields, and may need certifications such as Fire Inspector or Fire Safety Inspector credentials. Firefighter experience is not mandatory, but it can be beneficial for understanding fire behavior and safety practices.

What are some common challenges faced by Civilian Fire Inspectors in their daily work?

Civilian Fire Inspectors often encounter challenges such as balancing thorough inspections with time constraints, staying current with evolving fire codes and regulations, and effectively communicating safety requirements to property owners who may not be familiar with compliance standards. Additionally, inspectors must sometimes handle difficult conversations when violations are found, requiring strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills. Collaboration with fire departments, building officials, and community members is also essential, as inspectors work together to ensure public safety and minimize fire risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Civilian Fire Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civilian Fire Inspector, you need a solid understanding of fire codes, building safety regulations, and inspection procedures, typically supported by a degree in fire science or a related field and state certification. Familiarity with inspection reporting software, digital documentation tools, and fire prevention systems is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for delivering clear findings and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills are crucial for ensuring public safety, regulatory compliance, and effective risk mitigation in diverse environments.

How much do fire inspectors make in the US?

Fire inspectors in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to over $90,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Factors such as working for local government agencies and having specialized training can influence earning potential.

How long does it take to be a fire inspector?

Becoming a civilian fire inspector typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification programs that can take several months. Many fire inspectors also gain experience as firefighters or in related roles before qualifying for the position, with some certifications requiring ongoing education and exams.

Are fire inspector jobs in demand?

Fire inspector jobs are generally in demand due to ongoing safety regulations and the need for fire prevention in various settings. Employment opportunities often depend on local government budgets, building codes, and the requirement for certifications such as fire inspection or code enforcement licenses.

What are Civilian Fire Inspectors?

Civilian Fire Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining buildings and properties to ensure they comply with fire codes and safety regulations. Unlike firefighters, they typically do not respond to emergencies but focus on prevention by identifying potential fire hazards, reviewing building plans, and educating the public about fire safety. Their duties may also include issuing permits, conducting inspections, and investigating the causes of fires. Most Civilian Fire Inspectors work for local government agencies, and they play a crucial role in minimizing fire risks within communities.
More about Civilian Fire Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Civilian Fire Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Civilian Fire Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Civilian Fire Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Civilian Fire Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Civilian Fire Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Civilian Fire Inspector jobs are:
Civilian Fire Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civilian Fire Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Fire Marshal

City of Geneva, IL

Geneva, IL • On-site

$108K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Salary : $108,737.00 - $152,232.00 Annually
Location : Geneva, Fire Department
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202400045
Department: Fire Department
Opening Date: 06/23/2026
Description
The City of Geneva is seeking a highly motivated and experienced fire service professional to serve as Fire Marshal - Assessment, Planning and Prevention within the Geneva Fire Department.
The Fire Marshal is a key leadership position responsible for planning, organizing, and managing the Fire Prevention Division. This position reports to the Fire Chief and provides oversight of fire prevention programs, code enforcement, inspections, plan review, fire investigations, public education, and life safety initiatives designed to protect the residents, businesses, and visitors of the City of Geneva.
The successful candidate will join a progressive, accredited combination fire department committed to innovation, professional development, firefighter safety, and exceptional service delivery.
Examples of Duties
Including but not limited to:
  • Lead and manage the Fire Prevention Division, including personnel, programs, and daily operations.
  • Oversee fire inspections, new construction inspections, plan reviews, and fire code enforcement activities.
  • Interpret and apply adopted fire, building, and life safety codes while working collaboratively with developers, contractors, businesses, and community partners.
  • Coordinate with City departments, elected officials, legal representatives, and outside agencies regarding fire prevention and life safety matters.
  • Manage the department's inspection, pre-plan, and records management system.
  • Develop and maintain fire prevention policies, procedures, and operational guidelines.
  • Oversee public education programs and community risk reduction initiatives.
  • Conduct or supervise fire investigations involving significant loss, injury, or suspicious circumstances.
  • Support emergency operations by responding to major incidents and providing technical expertise related to fire suppression and rescue operations.
  • Assist in evaluating community risk, operational needs, and long-term planning initiatives.
  • Must be able to respond to after-hours emergency situations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications
The ideal candidate will be a collaborative leader who:
  • Demonstrates strong knowledge of fire prevention practices, codes, standards, and regulations.
  • Understands the importance of balancing customer service, enforcement, and community risk reduction.
  • Possesses strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Works effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Commits to continuous improvement, professional development, and maintaining high standards of service.

Candidates must possess:
  • Knowledge of fire service operations, fire prevention, and code enforcement principles.
  • Four years of experience in progressively responsible fire prevention, inspection, investigation, or related fire service duties.
  • Ability to interpret and enforce applicable fire and building codes.
  • Illinois driver's license.
  • Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) certifications including:
    • Firefighter II or Basic Operations Firefighter (BOF)
    • Basic Fire Prevention Officer I
    • Fire Investigator
    • Hazardous Materials Operations
    • Technical Rescue Awareness
  • NIMS certifications:
    • ICS 100
    • ICS 200
    • IS 700
    • IS 800

International Code Council (ICC) certifications are required within six (6) months of employment:
  • International Fire Code (IFC)
  • International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
  • International Building Code
Preferred qualifications include:
  • OSFM Fire Officer I / Company Fire Officer certification
  • OSFM Advanced Fire Prevention Officer certification
  • Knowledge of ESO record management system
  • Additional fire prevention, leadership, or emergency management experience

Supplemental Information
The City of Geneva is an excellent place to grow your career. Our organization's size offers the perfect opportunity to make contributions that will truly make an impact along with the chance to oversee unique projects as we look to the future of our community. If you are seeking a role where you can see the difference you make every day, have the ability to collaborate with a close-knit team and enhance one of the Chicago suburbs most ideal communities, we would love to have you on board!
Interested candidates can read more about the on the City's website.
The City also offers a generous benefit package which includes ample paid time off as well as competitive health insurance options and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund program (IMRF). Candidates should be aware that this position is a civilian position and does not participate in an Article 4 retirement program. The starting rate of pay for this position is negotiable with a range of $108,737 - $152,232. The anticipated starting pay is up to $130,485.
We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave. Part-time employees who work an average of 40 hours per week over the course of a year, receive benefits on a pro-rated basis. To learn more details, visit our benefits page.
01
Do you have a valid Driver's License with a clean driving record?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Of the required certifications listed, which do you currently hold?
03
How many years of previous fire prevention experience do you have?
  • Less than 1 year
  • 2 to 4 years
  • Over 5 years of experience

04
How many years of plan review experience do you have?
  • Less than 1 year
  • 2 to 4 years
  • Over 5 years of experience

05
Please briefly tell us why you are interested in this position and why you feel your professional experience makes you a great fit.
06
Do you have experience using ESO record management system?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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