1

Fire Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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

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 Marshal

Geneva, IL

$108K - $152K/yr

Oversee fire inspections, new construction inspections, plan reviews, and fire code enforcement activities. Interpret and apply adopted fire, building, and life safety codes while working ...

Fire Marshal

Geneva, IL · On-site

$108K - $152K/yr

Oversee fire inspections, new construction inspections, plan reviews, and fire code enforcement activities. * Interpret and apply adopted fire, building, and life safety codes while working ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Fire Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.8K

$65.8K

$102K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 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.

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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Fire Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Fire Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Fire Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,806 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Fire Captain

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days 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,securityand sustainability. Our people apply undaunted curiosity, relentlessambitionand boundless imagination to challenge convention and drive progress. Our commitments are underpinned by the belief that safety,collaborationand 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:

Supervises a shift of firefighters that control and extinguishesaircraft, structures, and other fires to protect people,resources,and the environment.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Maintains a safe workplace program and ensures that safety is the highest priority in the workplace.

  • Complies withall ASC Environmental, Safety and Health (ESH), Waste Management and Quality Assurance requirements, goals,policiesand procedures, providing documentation to thesedivisionsas necessary.

  • Implements fire protection programs that conform to the United States Antarctic Program, including the operation of contract locations inAntarctica.

  • Responds to and/or supervises fire/EMS/Aircraft and hazardous material emergencies, asnecessary.

  • Manages emergenciesin accordance withthe CEMP andassiststhe chief with management of the fire prevention and training programs.

  • Supervises and performs evaluations of fire department lieutenants.

  • Ensures that emergency equipment under the control of the fire department is operational and in a constant state of readiness.

  • Interacts with agency officials and the community.

  • Trains and orients fire department personnel on policies and procedures.

  • Performs duties in support of the Operations Division metrics.

  • Works with the Fire Chief to address all performance concerns in the Fire House.

  • Performsadditionalduties as assigned by the Assistant Chief.

RequiredEducation, Experience, Certificates and Licenses:

  • High School diploma orGED

  • Eight yearsfull timefirefighting experience, volunteer experience or paid on-call time.

  • At least fourof the eightyearsrequired experience must be in asupervisoryrole,or two as a Lieutenant with the Antarctic Fire Department.

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

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified FirefighterI &II

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

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

  • 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 100,200,700and800.

ExpectedSkills and Competencies:

  • Physical activities to includelifting upto the safety regulation maximum, climbing,crawlingand 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.

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills arerequired

Preferred:

  • Associate of Science degree in Fire Science.

  • EMT-B orhigher

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

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

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

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

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

  • National Incident Management System (NIMS): ICS 300 and 400.

  • IFSAC, Pro-Board/DoD, or State Certified Hazardous Materials Incident Commander.

  • PreviousUSAP experience.

Physical and/or Other Requirements:

  • Willingness and ability to deploy to Antarctica for extended periodsSuccessful 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.

  • Mustparticipatein community programs, such as "house-mouse" (chores), "daisy-picking" (cleaning-up around the station), recycling efforts & safetyobjectives.

  • Valid Driver's License issued in the United States

  • Must be able to obtain andmaintainfacility credentials/authorization. Note: US Citizenship isrequiredfor facility credentials/authorization at this work location.

We are an equal opportunityemployerand all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Amentum is a drug free workplace.

Boots Required: Yes No