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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 ...

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 ...

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Fire Alarm Technician

Columbia, SC · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Install, program, test, inspect, troubleshoot, and repair fire alarm systems. * Perform installation and service of fire alarm control panels, initiating devices, notification appliances, modules ...

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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Fire Inspector information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$30.6K

$51.9K

$80.4K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire inspector in Columbia, SC is $51,884.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $59,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Fire Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Fire Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,884 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Fire Safety Off IV - 61058468 - FMO

Columbia, SC

State of South Carolina
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$58K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Responsibilities Plans, schedules, and supervises fire protection activities to include administrative, managerial, and leadership responsibilities. He/she works under limited supervision and assumes the duties and responsibilities of the Assistant Fire Chief in his/her absence. Directs and performs as team leader for control and extinguishment of structural, wildland, and vehicular fires.

Respond to medical, confined space, hazardous materials, and other related emergency calls. Assist with executing program(s) designed to provide required training and safety for McCrady visitors and employees. Serves as the lead Fire Inspector and Trainer for assigned shift and performs other related fire duties as required.

Minimum and Additional Requirements A high school diploma and (10) years of progressively accountable firefighting experience with a minimum of (5) years in a supervisory position. Must possess current First Aid, CPR, AED medical training and must possess a valid South Carolina Driver's License and be able to obtain a federal government driver's license as required. Applicants must meet NFPA-1582 physical standards with the ability to wear a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

Additional Comments Must have knowledge of Supervisory and Command & Control techniques, firefighting, rescue procedures, and life safety inspections. Responsible for leading a shift in training, on all firefighting topics, structural firefighting techniques, hazardous material storage/handling, first aid, and the requirements of Army Regulations 420-1 and DoDI 6055. Must possess; (IFSAC) or ProBoard Fire Officer III, Fire Inspector I or SC FM-FI-I, Fire Instructor I, Driver/Operator Pumper/MWS, HazMat IC, Tele-communicator I/II.

Additional certification required is ICS/NIMS 100 through 800. If required, must be able to obtain a National Security Clearance at the "Secret" level. Must have knowledge of Fire Alarm Systems.

Operate office equipment, communication devices, fire-fighting vehicles/tools, and related equipment. Applicants can be granted up to one (1)-year to obtain lesser required certification(s) as granted by the Fire Chief. A resume will not be accepted in lieu of an online South Carolina State Employment Application.

Only those applicants chosen for interview will be notified of job filled status. Note: Applicants indicating college credit, degree(s) or specialized training on the application shall provide an official copy of transcripts upon notification of selection for hire. This serves as verification of credentials listed on the application.


What State Of South Carolina employees say

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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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