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Fire Inspector Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

The basic function of this position is to service fire sprinkler systems while working under the supervision of a more senior inspector or supervisor. Duties And Responsibilities: * Services and ...

Deputy Fire Marshal

College Park, MD · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Certified Fire Inspector II (NFPA, ICC, or Pro Board) Certified Fire Investigation Technician or Fire Investigator {IAAI or NAFI, or Pro Board) or completion of NFA Fire/Arson Investigation or ...

Fire Alarm- Systems Inspector

Laurel, MD · On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Fire Alarm 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 ...

Fire Sprinkler - Systems Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

$23.25 - $30.25/hr

Fire Sprinkler Inspector will perform inspections associated with fire sprinkler systems and other water-based equipment in accordance with all national and local standards. In addition to your ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Inspector information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$37.2K

$63.1K

$97.8K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire inspector in Columbia, MD is $63,058.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,600.00 and $71,900.00 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 cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Fire Inspector jobs? Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Fire Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Inspector job openings in Columbia, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,058 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Fire Inspector Helper

Everon LLC

Columbia, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Everon rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 32 rated health and safety providers


Job description

Company Overview:
At Everon, we truly believe that our people are the difference - for our organization, the customers we serve and the communities we protect. When you're a part of Everon, you'll have the opportunity to be a part of that difference every day. With more than 100 locations, a deep national presence, and comprehensive portfolio of solutions and services, our employees are always poised for career advancement and growth. For more information, visit www.everonsolutions.com or follow us on LinkedIn.
Position Summary:
  • The basic function of this position is to service fire sprinkler systems while working under the supervision of a more senior inspector or supervisor.

Duties And Responsibilities:
  • Services and repairs fire protection sprinkler systems for commercial application.
  • Performs preventative and routine maintenance as well as emergency service calls, as needed, on existing sprinkler systems.
  • Troubleshoots/diagnoses and identifies malfunctioning sprinkler systems.
  • Replaces or repairs malfunctioning or inoperative equipment.
  • Prepares accurate and timely documentation for work performed, completes monthly vehicle reports, and maintains truck inventory to ensure proper response to customers' needs).
  • Must adhere to company safety policies and procedures.
  • Must ensure a positive customer experience.
  • Must have a strong work ethic.
  • Must be detail-oriented.
  • Must perform other duties, as assigned.
  • Minimum Qualifications (Education, Skills & Experience):
  • Minimum of High School/Vocational training.
  • Must have one (1) or more years of experience in all fire sprinkler systems (wet, dry, deluge, and pre-action).
  • Required to have understanding of all NFPA and local codes that apply (NFPA 13, 13(R), 13(D), 14, 20, 24).
  • Must have an understanding of all fire codes and ability to discern deficiencies in the system(s) being serviced.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and be able to clear a drug screening.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprint, schematics, diagrams, policies, procedures, etc. as presented in English

Certification/Licensing:
  1. Ability to obtain Backflow Test and Repair Certification.
  2. Must obtain and retain any specific product certifications and/or licenses that are required national, state, and local codes.

Work Environment:
  • Exposure to outside weather conditions, risk of electrical shock, and harsh work environments.
  • The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Requirements:
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:
  • Stand; walk; sit; twist; use hands to handle; reach with hands and arms; push; pull; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk and hear.
  • Use vision abilities including: close, distance, peripheral, depth, and color.
  • Work in unusual and sometimes difficult positions/circumstances such as with ladders, scaffolding, high lift equipment, wires, ducts, crawl spaces, attics, above ceilings, etc.
  • Lift, move, and hold up to approximately 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to work a full-time, flexible schedule with "on call availability" and must be able to travel on short notice.
  • Must be able to drive a motor vehicle (day and evenings) for extended time periods.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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