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Fire Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

City of Highland Park

Senior Inspector

Highland Park, IL

$78K - $118K/yr

Supervise the work of building, fire prevention, and property maintenance inspectors and other staff as assigned.IMRF pension eligible position. 2080 hours annual Expected hiring range: $37.87 -$52 ...

Pae

Firefighter Lieutenant

Chicago, IL

Conducts inspections and ensures the operations are conducted according to the Fire Department SOP's and NFPA guidelines. * Ensures that emergency equipment under the control of the fire department ...

exp Federal

Fire Protection Engineer - FPE

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $142K/yr

This may include field inspections and witnessing acceptance testing. * Investigate existing water ... Fire Protection Engineering License - FPE (in any state) * Excellent written and verbal ...

UL Solutions

Building Inspector - Midwest

Northbrook, IL · Remote

$85K - $95K/yr

University Degree (Equivalent to Associates degree) in Mechanical, Electrical, or Fire Safety Engineering preferred * Related discipline plus generally five years' experience as an inspector ...

UL Solutions

Building Inspector - Midwest

Northbrook, IL · Remote

$85K - $95K/yr

University Degree (Equivalent to Associates degree) in Mechanical, Electrical, or Fire Safety Engineering preferred * Related discipline plus generally five years' experience as an inspector ...

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All JobsFire Inspector JobsFire Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL

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.
More about Fire Inspector jobs
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 job categories do people searching Fire Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for 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:
Fire Inspector jobs near you
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.
Adjunct Faculty - Fire Science

Adjunct Faculty - Fire Science

Harper College

Palatine, IL • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Harper College rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Courses to be taught:
FIS 100 - FUNDAMENTALS OF FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
FIS 102 - FIRE SERVICE MANAGEMENT/LEADERSHIP
FIS 106 - FIRE SERVICE CAREER EXPLORATION PRACTICUM
FIS 121 - FIRE BEHAVIOR AND COMBUSTION
FIS 212 - FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
FIS 230 - FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES LAW
Responsibilities
Job Description:
Deliver course content that aligns with the college's curriculum standards and student learning outcomes.
Develop course syllabi, assignments, and assessments that reflect current industry practices and ensure course outcomes are met.
Foster an inclusive and engaging learning environment that accommodates diverse learning styles and promotes student success.
Use technology and other resources to enhance course delivery and student engagement, including online, hybrid, or face-to-face modalities.
Maintain accurate records of student's progress and grades.
Must adhere to mid-term verification and final grade posting deadlines.
Adhere to institutional policies and procedures, including those related to academic integrity and accessibility.
Qualifications
Experience Requirements:
The equivalent of one year's full-time, non-teaching fire service experience (2,000 hrs).
Experience in fire service training or instruction, including delivery of classroom, hands-on, or skills-based training.
Preferred Experience:
Ideal candidates will possess all or a combination of the following experience:
  • Equivalent of three year's full-time, non-teaching fire service experience (6,000 hours+).
  • Mentoring, onboarding, and/or providing basic firefighter instruction in foundational fire service concepts, organization, and career pathways.
  • Fire service management and leadership skills including supervision, organizational structure, decision-making, and leadership development.
  • Facilitating and/or mentoring students in a Fire Service Career Exploration including field observations, career planning, or professional development.
  • Fire behavior and combustion concepts, including fire dynamics, heat transfer, and fire development principles.
  • Fire protection systems familiarity, including detection, alarm, suppression, and system design concepts.
  • Knowledgeable regarding fire and emergency services law, including legal responsibilities, liability, and regulatory considerations in the fire service.

Education Requirements:
Bachelor's in fire science technology or related field
OSFM Fire Officer I or Company Fire Officer certification
OSFM Fire Service Instructor 2 certification.
Preferred Education Requirements:
Additional certifications such as OSFM Fire Officer II, Fire Instructor III, or equivalent advanced-level credentials.
Completion of coursework aligned with Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) model curriculum.
Training or certification in Fire Prevention, Fire Inspection, or Community Risk Reduction (CRR).
Specialized training in fire behavior and fire dynamics, including UL Fire Safety Research Institute (UL FSRI) Fire Safety Academy modules.
Experience or training in leadership development, supervision, or organizational management within the fire service.
Certifications or coursework related to emergency management, incident command, or disaster response (e.g., advanced ICS/NIMS coursework).
Prior participation in professional development programs, academies, or leadership institutes within the fire service.

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