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Fire Inspector Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Fire Alarm Systems Inspector

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Fire Inspectors play a vital role in preventing, detecting, and mitigating the impact of fires. You will perform tasks such as minor repairs and visual and functional testing on fire alarm systems in ...

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Fire Inspector information

See Michigan salary details

$32.7K

$55.4K

$85.9K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire inspector in Michigan is $55,382.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $63,200.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Inspector jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Fire Inspector jobs in Michigan are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Inspector jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Inspector jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Fire Inspector jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Fire Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Inspector jobs in MI? For Fire Inspector jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Fire Inspector job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,382 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Fire Safety Inspector 9-11 (Field Services - Detroit Region)

Fire Safety Inspector 9-11 (Field Services - Detroit Region)

State of Michigan

Lansing, MI

$24.22 - $37.40/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


State Of Michigan rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 184 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description Employees in this job serve as fire safety inspectors ensuring that state facilities, institutions, and businesses located in the state are in compliance with the applicable fire safety codes and standards and various state laws, rules and regulations. This position serves as a senior fire safety inspector ensuring that state facilities, institutions, and businesses located in the state are in compliance with the applicable fire safety codes and standards and various state laws, rules and regulations. This position primarily covers the Detroit Region.

REGION MAP This position is a test designated position. it will require agreed consent to random drug testing per state of Michigan procedure. FIRES SAFETY INSPECTOR 9-E10: POSITION DESCRIPTION FIRES SAFETY INSPECTOR 11/A: POSITION DESCRIPTION LARA is proud to be Michigan Veteran's Affairs Agency (MVAA) Gold Level Veteran-Friendly Employer.

For more information about our department, visit us at www.michigan.gov/lara, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube The use of artificial intelligence (AI) software of any kind is prohibited in all areas of the selection process; including, but not limited to, responses to application questions, and responses to interview questions or exercises. Any applicant that is suspected of using AI software for any portion of the selection process may be screened out. Required Education and Experience Education Fire Safety Inspector Educational level typically acquired through completion of high school

Experience Fire Safety Inspector 9 Three years of experience as a fire fighter, law enforcement officer, or corrections officer. Fire Safety Inspector E10 Two years of experience equivalent to a Fire Safety Inspector 9. Fire Safety Inspector 11 Three years of experience equivalent to a Fire Safety Inspector, including one year equivalent to a Fire Safety Inspector E10.

Alternate Education and Experience Alternate Education and Experience Fire Safety Inspector 9 One year of full-time experience conducting inspections with a municipal fire department, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs or Department of Corrections, or in the building trades (licensed electrical inspector, safety inspector, plumbing inspector, construction inspector, etc.) may be substituted for the experience requirement. An associate's degree in fire science or fire technology may be substituted for two years of fire fighter experience. Additional Requirements and Information Additional Requirements and Information Possession of a valid driver's license

Michigan Fire Inspector certification or National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Inspector I credentials.\ See individual position descriptions for other requirements. View the entire job specification at: https://www.michigan.gov/mdcs/-/media/Project/Websites/mdcs/JOBSPECS/F/FireSafetyInspector.pdf Please attach a resume, official transcripts (if applicable), and Michigan Fire Inspector certification or National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Inspector I credentials (if applicable). Accommodations If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the ADA coordinator for the agency that posted this position vacancy.


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