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Fire Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Fire Sprinkler Technician

Columbia, SC · On-site

$30.25 - $50/hr

Perform inspections to ensure Fire Sprinkler systems are according to code * Perform Preventive Maintenance and repairs * Complete detailed inspection reports * document any issues * Provide ...

Fire Sprinkler Technician

Columbia, SC · On-site

$30.25 - $50/hr

Perform inspections to ensure Fire Sprinkler systems are according to code * Perform Preventive Maintenance and repairs * Complete detailed inspection reports * document any issues * Provide ...

Fire Sprinkler Technician

Columbia, SC · On-site

$30.25 - $50/hr

Perform inspections to ensure Fire Sprinkler systems are according to code * Perform Preventive Maintenance and repairs * Complete detailed inspection reports * document any issues * Provide ...

Perform inspections to ensure Fire Sprinkler systems are according to code * Perform Preventive Maintenance and repairs * Complete detailed inspection reports * document any issues * Provide ...

Fire Sprinkler Technician

Columbia, SC · On-site

$30.25 - $50/hr

Perform inspections to ensure Fire Sprinkler systems are according to code * Perform Preventive Maintenance and repairs * Complete detailed inspection reports * document any issues * Provide ...

Fire Sprinkler Technician

Columbia, SC · On-site

$30.25 - $50/hr

Perform inspections to ensure Fire Sprinkler systems are according to code * Perform Preventive Maintenance and repairs * Complete detailed inspection reports * document any issues * Provide ...

The Fire Alarm Technician performs inspections, test alarms, troubleshoot or document any issues, and responds to emergency service calls. The ideal EMI Fire Alarm Technician must be NICET II ...

The Fire Alarm Technician performs inspections, test alarms, troubleshoot or document any issues, and responds to emergency service calls. The ideal EMI Fire Alarm Technician must be NICET II ...

The Fire Alarm Technician performs inspections, test alarms, troubleshoot or document any issues, and responds to emergency service calls. The ideal EMI Fire Alarm Technician must be NICET II ...

The Fire Alarm Technician performs inspections, test alarms, troubleshoot or document any issues, and responds to emergency service calls. The ideal EMI Fire Alarm Technician must be NICET II ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Inspector information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$34.7K

$58.8K

$91.1K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire inspector in Columbia, SC is $58,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $67,100.00 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 Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Fire Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Fire Inspector jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Fire Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Inspector job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,784 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Deputy State Fire Marshal

State of South Carolina

Columbia, SC • On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities Come join our team at the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) where you will experience work-life balance, great benefits, and an exciting career that supports the Agency's mission to make South Carolina a safe place to work and live. Responsibilities You will serve as a Deputy State Fire Marshal conducting fire code compliance inspections and investigations. You will prepare reports on inspection activities, cite violations (as appropriate), and conduct follow-up inspections to ensure corrective actions have been taken.

You will support community risk reduction efforts that promote fire prevention and protection of life and property. You may respond to fire scenes and assist with fire fatality research and/or Origin and Cause investigations. You will review construction plans and meet with various stakeholders to provide interpretations of applicable codes and regulations.

You may deploy as part of the Palmetto Incident Support Team or Emergency Response Task Force as an essential staff member, or as needed when the State Emergency Operations Center is activated. Position requires extensive travel. Minimum and Additional Requirements Minimum Qualifications A high school diploma and experience conducting investigations or performing other law enforcement duties.

A bachelor's degree may be substituted for the required work experience. MANDATORY REQUIREMENT: Must reside or be willing to relocate to one of the following counties: Chester, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lee, Sumter, or York. Preferred Qualifications A bachelor's degree.

ICC Fire Inspector I or equivalent. 2 years' experience in code enforcement and/or fire prevention. Considerable knowledge of SC Code of Laws, SC Code of Regulations, and adopted editions of codes and standards.

Ability to conduct inspections/investigations and analyze facts and reach appropriate conclusions. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Ability to successfully and effectively communicate, both orally and in writing.

Other Requirements Must have a valid driver's license and 10-year MVR that complies with State and Agency Fleet guidelines. Must be able to drive a state vehicle to complete assigned job duties. Must be able to work nights, weekends, and/or holidays in inclement weather and in hazardous environments.

Requires extended periods of driving, sitting, and visiting facilities that are non-ADA complaint. Must be able to lift or carry objects in the amount of 50lbs. Must be able to climb ladders, access crawl spaces under floors and in attics, climb and descend stairs, squat, kneel, stand, and walk for extended hours.

May be deployed in an emergency response capacity as part of State Fire's State ESF 4/9 coordination, as part of Firefighter Mobilization, or as part of the Emergency Response Task Force or Palmetto IST. Position requires extensive travel with primary counties of Chester, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lee, Sumter, and York, but also statewide, as needed. Additional Comments Benefits Offered This position participates in the Police Officers Retirement System (PORS).

The South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes: Health, dental, vision, long term disability, and life insurance for employee, spouse, and children 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year 15 days sick leave per year 13 paid holidays Paid Parental Leave State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs


What State Of South Carolina employees say

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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