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Fire Arson Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

Education and Experience Associate degree in fire science, fire technology, fire protection, fire engineering, arson investigation, building design, construction, fire/business, public administration ...

New

Basic Arson Investigator License issued by Texas Commission on Fire Protection, required * Basic Texas Peace Officer License issued by Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE), required *Please ...

Deputy Fire Marshal

La Porte, TX · On-site

$28.84 - $36.05/hr

Basic Arson Investigator License issued by Texas Commission on Fire Protection, required * Basic Texas Peace Officer License issued by Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE), required *Please ...

Issues burn (Open Fire) permits Serves as Arson investigator for Department. Responds to all fires in order to investigate cause and origin and to coordinate serious investigations with New Mexico ...

Fire Senior Inspector

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$33.84 - $49.06/hr

Fire/Arson Investigator Certification (AZIAAI I-IV, or NFA, or IAAI, or NAFI, or equivalent state Certification) within 2 years of hire or promotion * ICC Fire Inspector II Certifications within 1 ...

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Fire Arson Investigator information

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$35.5K

$69.3K

$110.5K

How much do fire arson investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire arson investigator 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fire Arson Investigator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Arson Investigator, you need a solid background in fire science, criminal investigation, and evidence collection, often supplemented by specialized training or certification such as Certified Fire Investigator (CFI). Familiarity with fire scene reconstruction tools, evidence analysis software, and report writing systems is common in the field. Strong critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are invaluable soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate investigations, thorough documentation, and successful collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams.

Can I become a fire investigator without being a firefighter?

Fire arson investigators do not need to be firefighters, but many have backgrounds in fire service or law enforcement. Relevant skills include knowledge of fire behavior, investigation techniques, and often certification in fire investigation or arson detection. Prior experience in emergency services can be beneficial but is not always required to enter the field.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Fire Arson Investigator?

As a Fire Arson Investigator, your days often involve visiting fire scenes to determine the origin and cause of fires, collecting and analyzing physical evidence, and interviewing witnesses or suspects. You’ll also spend time preparing detailed reports and collaborating with local fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and forensic laboratories. The role requires both fieldwork and desk work, balancing on-site investigation with research and documentation. This blend of responsibilities keeps the work dynamic and necessitates strong organizational and analytical skills.

Is it hard to become a fire investigator?

Becoming a fire arson investigator typically requires a background in fire science, law enforcement, or a related field, along with specialized training and certification. The process can be competitive and involves gaining experience in fire investigation techniques, often through law enforcement agencies or fire departments.

What is the demand for arson investigators?

The demand for arson investigators is steady, especially in regions with high fire incident rates and active fire departments. Employment opportunities are often influenced by government budgets, crime rates, and the need for specialized fire investigation skills, with positions typically requiring certification and experience in fire science or law enforcement.

What is a Fire Arson Investigator job?

A Fire Arson Investigator is responsible for determining the cause and origin of fires, particularly those suspected to be intentional. They collect and analyze evidence, interview witnesses, and collaborate with law enforcement and fire departments to identify potential arson cases. Their work may also involve testifying in court as expert witnesses. Fire Arson Investigators typically have backgrounds in firefighting, law enforcement, or forensic science.

How to become an arsonist investigator?

To become a fire arson investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by experience in fire service, law enforcement, or forensic investigation. Relevant certifications, such as those from the National Fire Protection Association or state fire marshal agencies, and knowledge of fire science, investigation techniques, and evidence collection are essential. Some roles may require specialized training or a background in criminal justice or forensic science.
What cities are hiring for Fire Arson Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Fire Arson Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Arson Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Fire Arson Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Fire Arson Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Fire Arson Investigator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Fire Arson Investigator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Arson Investigator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Fire Arson Investigator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 8% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 21% Temporary, 58% Contract, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,327 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Fire Arson Investigations Coordinator (Coordinator II - CPPW)

City of Portland

Portland, OR • Hybrid

$85K - $121K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


City Of Portland (Oregon) rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

72nd of 839 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Position THIS IS AN INTERNAL RECRUITMENT Job Appointment: Full Time Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Alternate schedules may be available. Work Location: Hybrid.

This position reports to 55 SW Ash St, Portland, OR 97204. Remote work must be performed within Oregon or Washington. For more information, click here.

Union Representation: CPPW. To view current labor agreements click here. Pay Range: $85,217.60 - $121,617.60 Position Summary: The Fire Arson and Investigations section is responsible for determining the origin and cause of fires, explosions, and other emergency situations

Investigators are dually certified as law enforcement officers and firefighters. Investigators work cooperatively with other law enforcement agencies to determine the cause of fires, identify arson situations and suspects, and assist in the arrest and prosecution of arsonists. The Fire/Arson Investigations Unit is considered a law enforcement agency by the State of Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST).

As such, the requirements for this law enforcement agency mirror that of the Portland Police Bureau with regards to training, certification, records, and policies and procedures. As a law enforcement agency, the unit is required to maintain accreditation/certification with the Federal Bureau of Investigations-Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS), as well as the State of Oregon-Law Enforcement Database System (LEDS). This position serves as the Terminal Agency Coordinator (TAC) for the Oregon State Police related to CJIS and LEDS training and certification for the Fire/Arson Investigations Unit.

The information obtained because of fire investigations is driving force behind public education outreach, code enforcement efforts, and community engagement activities. The analysis of the fire investigations data is reported on a local, state, and nationwide level. The role of the Fire Arson Investigations Coordinator (Coordinator II - CPPW) is central in the functions of the Fire Arson Investigations Unit in compliance with the law with the City of Portland, the State of Oregon, and the federal government as well as program requirements.

What You'll Do: Perform professional, analytical, and operational duties, and community development and outreach activities, by participating in ongoing working groups, special project teams, and collaborative efforts with staff and management. Provide internal and external customer service to City employees and the public on programs and services related to the unit; compile, research, and evaluate customer service complaints and issues; identify areas of concern and develop recommendations for solutions and improvements; prepare clear and concise responses. Coordinate the sharing of information to ensure consistency in unit messaging and branding of programs, services, events, policies, and procedures to increase public awareness of mission and goals.

Update and maintain internal databases, mailing lists, and other tracking software; analyze data, identify gaps, and resolve issues. Monitors existing interagency agreements with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Train and lead FIU members in LEDS and CJIS certification and recertification; provide ongoing support to members.

Create, update and maintain specialized reports. Organize and provide data from these reports to PF&R Management, the Public Information Officer, other bureaus, and the public in compliance with applicable laws. Respond to all public records requests for fire and / or investigative reports.

Respond to requests for information from inside as well as outside the City of Portland. Analyze requests, decide the type and amount of information that can be released, and redact records according to applicable laws. Consult with the City Attorney's Office and the Portland Police Bureau on records requests, as needed.

Monitor all existing fire and investigative records to ensure compliance with records retention laws and process juvenile expungement orders from the County. Complete audits with the State of Oregon as the TAC for the Fire/Arson Investigations Unit. This includes gathering documents, completing pre-audit questionnaires, coordinating with the Police Bureau, and participating in all audits as the representative of Portland Fire & Rescue.

Track and coordinate fire death information and data for the City of Portland. Make necessary notifications with the State Fire Marshal's Office and Medical Examiner's Office when there is a death suspected to be caused by fire. Update spreadsheets, lists, and reports and distribute data accordingly.

Administrative support functions for the Fire/Arson Investigations Unit include ordering supplies, timekeeping, call-shift tracking, creating and maintaining confidential files, maintaining and updating shift schedules, and creating, editing, and updating forms, policies, lists and documents. Other duties as assigned. To Qualify Applicants must be current City of Portland employees (full-time, part-time, permanent, temporary, limited-term, or seasonal/casual) by the closing date of this announcement.

Contract workers are not eligible. Individuals with an effective layoff date and recall eligibility under HRAR 7.06 within 24 months of the announcement's opening date may also apply. Applicants must demonstrate how their education, training, and experience meet each of the minimum qualifications listed below: Knowledge of principles, practices, and methods of business communication and program administration Skill in providing customer service and conflict resolution internally and externally to City employees and the public on programs and services related to Fire Investigations Unit and evaluating customer service complaints and issues Ability to communicate clearly, logically, and persuasively in verbal and written communication to internal and external audiences through comprehensive reports, correspondence, and other documents Ability to update and maintain internal databases, mailing lists, and other tracking software Ability to analyze, interpret, explain, and apply relevant laws, regulations, ordinances, policies, and procedures with interagency agreements and program compliance Applicants Must Possess Ability to pass a comprehensive police background investigation, including fingerprinting from the Oregon State Police Ability to obtain LEDS certification and become proficient with the bureau's record management system within three (3) months of hire Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding law enforcement investigations, case management, internal affairs investigations, and other sensitive internal bureau information Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in business administration, public administration, or related field Experience working with a Records Management System in a law enforcement agency Experience working in an administrative or support role within a law enforcement records unit, internal affairs/professional standards office, or investigative unit The Recruitment Process How to Apply: Submit your resume and cover letter by the closing date

(Optional) Submit Veterans' Preference documents, if applicable. If this is your first time applying with the City of Portland, or if you haven't requested veteran preference before (and would like to now), please attach your DD214-Member 4 and/or VA Benefit Letter to your application. Once we verify your eligibility, we'll record your veteran preference in our system, so it automatically applies to your future applications.

Click here for application tips for resume, supplemental question response and/or cover letter. What to Expect: Application Review - (Week of August 3rd): We'll review your application materials to ensure you meet the minimum qualifications listed above. Notice/Feedback - (Week of August 10): You will receive an email when the minimum qualification review is complete.

If you disagree with the evaluation results, you may request a review within 14 days of the email notice, per City Administrative Rule 3.01. Selection Process - (Mid / Late August): The hiring bureau will review qualified applications, conduct interviews, and check references. Conditional Job Offer - (Early / Mid September): Final candidates will undergo a background or driving record check, depending on the position

All timelines are subject to change. Additional Information Learn More About: How to Apply Videos and Workshops City of Portland Core Values HRAR-3.01 - Recruitment Processes Veteran Preference Information Total Compensation and Benefits Language Pay Differential Eligibility We're committed to providing a fair, inclusive, and accessible hiring process. If you need assistance with your application or would like to request a reasonable accommodation due to a disability, pregnancy, or religious belief, please contact the recruiter listed below

Questions. We're here to help. If you have questions about this recruitment or need assistance, contact: Anna Morgan, Senior Recruiter anna.morgan@portlandoregon.gov Bureau of Human Resources


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