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Fire Inspector Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

The section assists with adoption of fire safety regulations, inspection of public buildings, establishment and promotion of fire prevention programs, approval of local inspection programs, and the ...

The section assists with adoption of fire safety regulations, inspection of public buildings, establishment and promotion of fire prevention programs, approval of local inspection programs, and the ...

The section assists with adoption of fire safety regulations, inspection of public buildings, establishment and promotion of fire prevention programs, approval of local inspection programs, and the ...

The section assists with adoption of fire safety regulations, inspection of public buildings, establishment and promotion of fire prevention programs, approval of local inspection programs, and the ...

The section assists with adoption of fire safety regulations, inspection of public buildings, establishment and promotion of fire prevention programs, approval of local inspection programs, and the ...

This role encompasses oversight of fire inspections, code enforcement, fire investigations, public education, and community risk reduction programs. The Assistant Fire Chief ensures compliance with ...

New

Fire Marshal

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$82K/yr

Coordinate and perform building fire code inspections with building supervisors and the Bozeman Fire Department. * Perform building plan fire code review for capital projects and major renovations.

Inspect, test, and maintain fire protection systems in accordance with NFPA codes with working knowledge of sprinkler controls, alarm panels, devices and critical components. * Record and report ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Inspector information

See Montana salary details

$34.4K

$58.3K

$90.4K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire inspector in Montana is $58,321.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,700.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is a fire inspector?

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 is expected to grow as building codes become more stringent and safety regulations increase, often requiring certifications and knowledge of fire prevention techniques.
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Inspector jobs in Montana? The most popular types of Fire Inspector jobs in Montana are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Inspector jobs in Montana? For Fire Inspector jobs in Montana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Inspector jobs in Montana look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Inspector jobs in Montana are:
What cities in Montana are hiring for Fire Inspector jobs? Cities in Montana with the most Fire Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Inspector jobs in MT? For Fire Inspector jobs in MT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Fire Inspector job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,321 per year, or $28 per hour.

Fire Inspector

State of Montana

Miles City, MT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


State Of Montana rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 50 rated states


Job description

Division Overview:

Montana's Division of Criminal Investigation is a diverse public safety team of professionals who provide a full range of criminal investigative services to state, local, and tribal law enforcement.  From homicide investigations to illegal narcotics, criminal records, cybercrime, human trafficking, and missing persons. DCI serves as the hub in providing critical law enforcement support.  The professionals within DCI are the lifeline of support for public safety.  With a doctrine of service, honor, and justice, this statewide organization provides the best in critical, accurate, and timely service to protect our citizens.

Job Overview:

The Fire Prevention and Investigation Section provides statewide fire prevention and investigation services to nearly 400 fire agencies, 56 county sheriff's departments, more than 60 city police departments, and numerous other state and federal agencies. The section assists with adoption of fire safety regulations, inspection of public buildings, establishment and promotion of fire prevention programs, approval of local inspection programs, and the investigation of fires to determine origin and cause. The section also manages and maintains the records of all fires that occur within the state; provides training to local public safety agencies; and assists in homeland security training and planning.

The Deputy State Fire Marshal supports the overall section goals and objectives by performing professional investigative and inspection duties in order to enforce laws, codes, rules, and regulations enacted by the State of Montana in relation to fire safety. The position reports directly to the State Fire Marshal and serves as a spokesperson for the section when communicating through prepared letters, telephone, and personal discussions with the general public; building industry; law enforcement; fire service agencies; and local, state, and federal government officials.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be qualified by experience, training, and professional competence in matters of fire service and safety, as required by 2-15-2005, MCA, and ARM 23-12-405. 

  • Degree in fire-protection engineering or related field from a recognized institution of higher education and two years' experience in fire protection or be ICC Fire Inspector I or Fire Inspector II certified.

Knowledge:

For fire investigations, the Deputy requires knowledge of the relevant Montana Code Annotated; National Fire Protection Association Fire Codes; fire behavior in structures, automobiles, and wild lands; firefighting techniques; behavior of electricity, LPG gas, and natural gas as it relates to fire; specialized investigative devices and equipment related to fire investigation; interview and investigative methods and techniques used in fire investigation; criminal investigation procedures; procedures used for collection and preservation of evidence; and legal proceedings relating to arson prosecution. For building inspection and construction plan review activities, the Deputy requires knowledge of the standards pertaining to fire/life safety inspections; Building Codes; building construction processes and practices; installation and operation of fire alarm systems; installation and operation of smoke detection systems; installation and operation of automatic extinguishing systems; and blueprint interpretation.

 This postion may have other location options in Eastern Montana. 

Successful applicant(s) will be subject to: 

  • Criminal History Fingerprint Check

  • Intensive Background Check

  • Driving History

HOW TO APPLY:

 To be considered for this position, you must attach a resume at the time of application.

Tip: When attaching your resume, you must mark the attachment as a "Relevant File".

Your Resume: Please include all work experience as well as job duties that demonstrate your qualifications for this position.  Include dates of employment (month & year- start & end) and the reason you left each job.

 A complete online state application is not required.  To initiate an application, attach the resume to be considered for this position.  Failure to attach resume will result in an incomplete application that will not be considered further.

Only electronic applications will be accepted.  Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process.

All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date.  Please submit preference documentation to Terri Christianson at Terese.Christianson@mt.gov via File Transfer Service .

To request an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR office.

Your service is rewarded with competitive compensation and generous State of Montana Benefits.

  • Medical, dental and vision coverage

  • Retirement plans

  • Generous paid vacation, sick and holidays

  •  Pre-tax Flexibility Spending Accounts

  •  Employee Assistance Program

 State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

 This Organization Participates in E-Verify.


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