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Fire Inspector Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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

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Fire Inspector information

See Iowa salary details

$35.2K

$59.7K

$92.5K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 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 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 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.

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 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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Fire Inspector job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,682 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Seasonal Fire Alarm Inspector

Seasonal Fire Alarm Inspector

Midwest Alarm Services

Urbandale, IA

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Seasonal Fire Alarm Inspector

The purpose of this position is to service, test and repair electronic life safety systems including Fire and Burglar Alarms in commercial and industrial environments and to provide excellent customer service to our clients. Clean agent systems and CO2 suppression systems.

This is a temporary/seasonal position to help with inspection volume, with hours varying from week to week.

Why you should work here:

  • Wages are based on skill level and experience
  • You are able to earn more money based on individual drive and willingness to learn new tasks and earn certifications
  • Company vehicle and cell phone provided
  • Competitive benefits!

What you’ll be doing:

  • Perform fire protection inspections and preventive maintenance services on client fire alarm systems
  • Communicate effective and organized technical information and support to clients
  • Complete and submit all required task-related, activity, productivity, and other documentation in a timely manner
  • Be proficient at and train other less senior inspectors how to follow and maintain a highly structured inspection schedule
  • Maintain a positive work atmosphere by interacting with the Midwest Alarm Services internal/external customers (including, but not limited to: current customers, prospective customers, clients, vendors, co-workers, supervisors and management) in a mutually respectful manner regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation and all other protected classes
  • As this position develops, the employee may be assigned additional duties or special projects as deemed necessary by management
  • Other duties as assigned and pertinent to the position

What you’ll need:

  • Must be able to obtain a specified license to perform work in the security industry according to the rules and regulations prescribed by the State in which the branch operates
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Obtain NICET level certification within a prescribed time frame
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Previous experience in inspections and fire alarm systems is an asset
  • A strong knowledge of fire and electrical codes to ensure safe and proper inspection of systems and devices
  • To be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals; write routine reports and correspondence
  • To be able to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations
  • Strong computer skills with demonstrated experience in Microsoft Office Suite including Word and Excel are required
  • Must possess the values important to Midwest Alarm Services – Integrity, Communication, Excellent Service, and Accountability