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Fire Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

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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.

Full-time

Re-posted 8 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 Maintains 24 hour response capability to all emergency calls for aircraft, structural, vehicular, medical and other. Protects evidence and performs salvage and overhaul of the fire scene. Participates in required training standards of: International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Career Field Education and Training Plan (CFETP), Grants and Master Cooperative Agreement (MCA) policy.

State and local requirements. Performs fire control center duties, providing a continuous flow of written and oral information, communicating with fire department personnel, vehicles and other base or civilian agencies. Performs fire prevention inspections of base facilities for compliance with established codes.

Performs inspections of new/existing construction, stationary/mobile equipment, fire extinguishers, base hydrants and fire alarm/suppression systems. Performs daily inspections and operator maintenance on assigned vehicles and related equipment to ensure proper functioning and to find any damage or deficiencies. Will stay proficient in the operations of all vehicles and equipment and perform minor maintenance and corrosion control as scheduled or when needed.

Performs good housekeeping duties during assigned shifts, in accordance with written policies and schedules. Performs ground upkeep as required. Minimum and Additional Requirements Must be at least 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).

Must possess and maintain a current State driver's license. Must be able to meet the professional qualifications required by the NFPA 1001 for Firefighter I/II; and NFPA 1072 as HAZMAT Awareness/Operations; and Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) within 12 months of employment. The 12-month period starts once the State completes all on-boarding activities/actions (e.g

CAC credentialing, security clearances, etc.) to allow the new employee to register for and obtain their certifications. NOTE: Failure to comply will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination. Candidates are required to pass an annual medical examination to determine their physical ability to perform the job in accordance with National Fire Protection Standard 1582, Standards on Medical Requirements for Firefighters

Additional Comments Employees are required to obtain a United States Air Force Motor Vehicle Operator's card during training. Employees will be required to operate vehicles on runways or taxiways and will be required to successfully complete Flight line Driver's Training annually. Candidates must be able to meet NFPA-1582 physical standards, wear Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), must have a favorable background check which is necessary to operate on networked computers.

Employees in this classification are subject to substance abuse testing in accordance with State Laws. McEntire JNGS Fire Department provides 24/7 coverage and consists of three shifts of 10 personnel, each working 48 hrs on 96 hrs off with an average work of 56 hrs and 212 hrs per 28 day pay cycle. Must be able to work with people of different gender or race.

Employees in this classification are considered "Essential Employees" and are subject to be recalled 24 hours a day and must provide contact information. 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.


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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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