ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Fire Inspector Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Ankeny Iowa

Fire Inspector

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Function The City of Ankeny is accepting applications for a full-time position as a Fire Inspector in the Fire Department. Under the general supervision of the Division Chief of Community Risk ...

City of Ankeny, IA

Fire Inspector

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Fire Department Opening Date: 07/16/2026 Closing Date: 8/7/2026 4:00 PM Central Function The City of Ankeny is accepting applications for a full-time position as a Fire Inspector in the Fire ...

City of Independence

Volunteer Fire

Independence, IA · On-site

Responsibilities include operating fire apparatus and equipment, participating in rescue operations, performing maintenance on department tools and property, and assisting with fire inspections. This ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFire Inspector JobsFire Inspector Jobs in Iowa

Fire Inspector information

See Iowa salary details

$35.2K

$59.7K

$92.5K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire inspector in Iowa is $59,682.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,800.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of inspector gets paid the most?

Fire inspectors with specialized skills, such as fire protection engineers or those with advanced certifications and extensive experience, tend to earn higher salaries. Senior-level inspectors working in large urban areas or for government agencies also typically receive higher pay. Certifications like NICET or state licenses can contribute to increased earnings in this field.

What Is a Fire Inspector?

A fire inspector is responsible for inspecting existing and new buildings to ensure that they are up to code and do not present any fire hazards. It is a fire inspector’s job to test and examine fire prevention measures, such as fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and evacuation plans. A large company may perform a fire safety drill for the inspector to oversee and provide feedback. For new building projects, a fire inspector supervises and approves fire prevention measures to ensure they meet state regulations. The job of fire inspector should not be confused with that of fire investigator. An investigator examines extinguished fires to find the source. An inspector examines buildings to prevent a fire from starting.

What is the difference between Fire Inspector vs Fire Investigator?

AspectFire InspectorFire Investigator
CertificationsFire Inspector Certification, State Fire Marshal LicenseFire Investigator Certification, State Fire Marshal License
Work EnvironmentInspections of buildings, code enforcement, safety assessmentsInvestigating fire causes, scene analysis, evidence collection
Employer & IndustryFire departments, government agencies, commercial propertiesFire departments, law enforcement, insurance companies
Primary FocusPreventing fires, ensuring code complianceDetermining fire origin and cause

While both Fire Inspectors and Fire Investigators work within fire safety, Fire Inspectors focus on prevention and code enforcement through building inspections, whereas Fire Investigators analyze fire scenes to determine causes. Their roles often overlap but serve different stages of fire safety and investigation processes.

How to become a firefighter inspector?

To become a firefighter inspector, candidates typically need a combination of firefighting experience, such as working as a firefighter or emergency responder, and specialized training in fire codes and inspection procedures. Many states require certification through programs like the Fire Inspector I and II certifications, which involve coursework and exams. Gaining knowledge of fire prevention, safety standards, and inspection tools is essential for this role.

What are Fire Inspectors?

Fire Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining buildings and properties to ensure they comply with local, state, and federal fire codes and regulations. They look for potential fire hazards, check fire prevention systems, and educate property owners about fire safety practices. Fire Inspectors may also investigate the causes of fires and help develop fire safety plans to prevent future incidents. Their work is crucial in helping to reduce the risk of fires and improve public safety.

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

To thrive as a Fire Inspector, you need a thorough understanding of fire codes, building safety regulations, and inspection procedures, typically supported by relevant certifications or formal fire science training. Familiarity with inspection software, fire modeling tools, and reporting systems is crucial for accurate documentation and analysis. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help Fire Inspectors work collaboratively with property owners and emergency personnel. These skills ensure compliance with safety standards, minimize fire risks, and protect communities from potential hazards.

What are some of the common challenges fire inspectors face during building inspections?

Fire inspectors often encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with evolving fire codes, addressing resistance or lack of cooperation from property owners, and identifying hidden hazards in older or non-standard buildings. They must balance thoroughness with efficiency, often working on tight schedules while maintaining accuracy in their reports. Good communication and up-to-date technical knowledge are essential to overcome these challenges and ensure public safety.

How hard is it to become a fire inspector?

Becoming a fire inspector typically requires a combination of education, such as a high school diploma or equivalent, and experience as a firefighter or in a related field. Many states also require certification or licensing, which involves passing exams and gaining relevant training, making the process moderately challenging depending on individual qualifications and local requirements.

Are fire inspectors in demand?

Fire inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for fire safety inspections in commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. Employment for fire inspectors is expected to grow as safety regulations become more stringent and building codes evolve, often requiring certifications and knowledge of fire prevention techniques.
More about Fire Inspector jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Inspector jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Fire Inspector jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Inspector jobs in Iowa? For Fire Inspector jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Inspector jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Inspector jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Fire Inspector jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Fire Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Inspector jobs in IA? For Fire Inspector jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Fire Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Inspector job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,682 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Fire Inspector

City of Ankeny Iowa

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Function The City of Ankeny is accepting applications for a full-time position as a Fire Inspector in the Fire Department. Under the general supervision of the Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction, the Fire Inspector is a uniformed member performing fire prevention, inspection, and code enforcement activities to ensure compliance with applicable fire codes, life safety regulations, and local ordinances. This position plays a key role in fire prevention through inspections, public education, and enforcement activities.

Starting salary is $40.68 - $47.09 per hour depending on relevant work experience, with an excellent benefit package. The City of Ankeny offers a comprehensive benefits package including: Vacation and Sick Leave Personal Leave Nine (9) Paid Holidays Health/Dental/Life/LTD Insurance Parental Leave Wellness Programs and Incentives Tuition Reimbursement and Continuing Education Programs Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Benefit Defined Benefits Pension Plan Through IPERS Deferred Compensation Plan Voluntary Insurance Benefit Options Longevity Pay Applications must be received by Friday, August 7, 2026, at 4:00 pm. Interested individuals should apply online at www.ankenyiowa.gov and attach a resume and cover letter detailing experience

Pre-employment physical, drug screen, physical capacity profile, and background check required. Application QR Code: To advance in the hiring process, you must pass a civil service exam to be administered to all qualified applicants. Additional information will be emailed on Monday, August 10, 2026.

Please check your email (and junk email) for testing information. Contact HR if you do not receive the testing information on 08/10/26. Principal Duties and Responsibilities Conduct routine and complaint-based fire and life safety inspections of buildings and occupancies Enforce applicable fire codes, ordinances, and standards Identify fire hazards and require corrective actions to ensure compliance Review building plans and construction documents for fire code compliance (as assigned) Investigate fire and life safety complaints Maintain accurate inspection records, reports, and documentation Issue notices of violation, citations, or orders to correct hazards Coordinate with building officials, code enforcement, and other agencies Conduct follow-up inspections to verify compliance Participate in pre-incident planning and data collection Entry Requirements and Skills High school diploma or equivalent (associate or bachelor's degree preferred) Knowledge of fire prevention principles and practices Understanding of applicable fire codes (e.g., IFC, NFPA standards) Ability to interpret building plans and specifications Strong written and verbal communication skills Ability to exercise sound judgment and enforce regulations tactfully Proficiency in report writing and record-keeping systems Ability to work independently and manage time effectively Required Special Qualifications: Valid Iowa Drivers' License or equivalent (transfer to Iowa within 60 days of hire date) International Code Council (ICC) Fire Inspector I (within 9 months of hire date) International Code Council (ICC) Fire Inspector II (within 18 months of hire date) FEMA ICS 100, 700, and 800 Facility and Work Area: Ankeny Fire/EMS Response District and Ankeny Fire/EMS Stations Physical & Environmental Characteristics: Ability to walk, stand, climb stairs and ladders Ability to lift and carry equipment as needed Ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions, including heat, cold, and confined spaces Work performed in office and field environments Exposure to potentially hazardous conditions during inspections May require occasional evening or weekend work

Apply