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Fire Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Summary: Conducts fire safety inspections and drill, initiates fire prevention and response training to designated personnel. Controls and extinguishes aircraft, structures, and other fires to ...

IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Fire Officer II * IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Firefighter I & II * IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Fire Inspector I * IFSAC, Pro-Board ...

As a Fire Alarm Inspector, you will be part of a dynamic team that allows you to grow as Convergint grows. For information about how we use your personal information, please see our Colleague ...

Fire Test & Inspect Tech I

Addison, IL · On-site

$18.98 - $31.63/hr

Typically works under supervision of a more senior inspector or supervisor. Duties And Responsibilities: * Conducts routine tests and inspections, documents deficiencies of fire alarm systems, fire ...

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Fire Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.8K

$65.8K

$102K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire inspector in Chicago, IL is $65,806.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,900.00 and $75,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to be a fire inspector?

Being a fire inspector can be challenging as it requires knowledge of fire codes, safety regulations, and inspection procedures. The job often involves physical activity, attention to detail, and sometimes working in hazardous environments, but it also offers clear certification pathways and training opportunities.

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 long does it take to become a fire inspector?

Becoming a fire inspector typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, gaining experience as a firefighter or in a related field, and obtaining relevant certifications such as the Fire Inspector I and II certifications. The process can take several years, often around 3 to 5 years, depending on education, experience, and certification requirements.

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, and applicants often need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a valid driver's license. Gaining experience in fire prevention, safety protocols, and building codes is essential for advancing in 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.

Can you be a fire inspector without being a firefighter?

A fire inspector is a separate role from a firefighter and does not require being a firefighter. Fire inspectors typically focus on code enforcement, safety inspections, and fire prevention, often needing certifications such as fire inspector or plan examiner licenses. While some fire inspectors have firefighting experience, it is not a mandatory requirement for the position.

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 the most commonly searched types of Fire Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Fire Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Fire Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Fire Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Fire Inspector job openings:
Fire Prevention Officer Lieutenant

Fire Prevention Officer Lieutenant

Pae

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Posted 3 hours ago


Job description

Amentum is a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology solutions, trusted by the United States and its allies to address their most significant and complex challenges in science, security and sustainability. Our people apply undaunted curiosity, relentless ambition and boundless imagination to challenge convention and drive progress. Our commitments are underpinned by the belief that safety, collaboration and well-being are integral to success. Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, we have approximately 50,000 employees in more than 70 countries across all 7 continents.

Summary:

Conducts fire safety inspections and drill, initiates fire prevention and response training to designated personnel. Controls and extinguishes aircraft, structures, and other fires to protect people, resources and the environment. Supervise firefighters that drive and operates a range of fire fighting vehicles and equipment.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for maintaining a safe workplace and ensuring that safety is the highest priority in the workplace.

  • Complies with all Environmental Health & Safety and Quality Assurance requirements and goals.

  • Provide documentation to these divisions as necessary to ensure adequate and legal documentation.

  • Implements as assigned, the fire protection programs that conform to the United States Antarctic Program, including the operation of the ASC contract locations in Antarctica.

  • Responsible for day-to-day operations or as directed by the Fire Captain. Conducts inspections and ensures the operations are conducted according to the Fire Department SOP's and NFPA guidelines.

  • Schedules weekly inspections for all work centers, tracks violations and completed inspections.

  • Issues violation notices to work centers and conduct follow up inspections.

  • Coordinates dormitory evacuation drills with site management.

  • Responsible for daily entry of equipment, training data, and all department activities in software.

  • Performs and supervises training of Fire Department personnel and fire safety training for the community.

  • Interacts with agency officials and the community in a professional and tactful manner.

  • Provides supervision to firefighters and is responsible for pre-season and post-season written performance evaluations.

  • Handles confidential matters (personnel actions, management reports, etc.) in accordance with management policy.

  • Trains and orients employees on safety guidelines, quality assurance requirements and fire department goals.

  • Required to know and follow the SOP's and adhere to professional behavior both on duty and off duty.

  • Performs additional duties as assigned by the Captain.

Required Education, Experience, Certificates and Licenses:

  • High School diploma or GED

  • Four years previous full time firefighting experience, volunteer experience or paid on-call time; at least two of those years must be in a Fire Inspector role

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Fire Officer I.

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Fire Instructor I.

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Firefighter II.

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Fire Inspector II.

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Airport Fire Fighter.

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations Level.

  • CPR Certification.

  • National Incident Management System (NIMS): ICS 100, 200, 700 and 800.

Expected Skills and Competencies:

  • Physical activities to include lifting up to the safety regulation maximum, climbing, crawling and dragging hose. Duties will be performed indoors and outdoors, and work may be performed in a variety of weather conditions including severe cold, wind, and limited visibility.

Preferred:

  • Associate of Science degree in Fire Science.

  • EMT-B or Paramedic.

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD or State Certified Driver Operator Pumper / Mobile Water Supply.

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD or State Certified Driver Operator ARFF.

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD or State Certified Fire Inspector III.

  • Previous USAP experience.

Physical and/or Other Requirements:

  • Willingness and ability to deploy to Antarctica for extended periods

  • Successful completion of Medical and Dental examinations required by the NSF for deployment to Antarctica

  • Successful completion of drug screening and background check required by employer

  • Successful completion of Federal Background Check required by the NSF

  • Must be willing and able to lift and move items, parts, assemblies, and equipment up to the safety regulation maximum as required by the position.

  • Must be willing and able to perform physical activities including heavy lifting, climbing in and out of equipment, crawling, and working outdoors in extreme cold as required by the position.

  • Must participate in community programs, such as "house-mouse" (chores), "daisy-picking" (cleaning-up around the station), recycling efforts & safety objectives.

  • Valid Driver's License issued in the United States

  • Must be able to obtain and maintain facility credentials/authorization. Note: US Citizenship is required for facility credentials/authorization at this work location.