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Fire Inspector Jobs in Dubuque, IA (NOW HIRING)

Security Officer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Knowledge of basic security and fire inspection procedures * Quick decision-making skills * Excellent verbal and written communication skills * Ability to multi-task and work under pressure * May be ...

Ensure compliance of safety equipment inspections including fire protection equipment and alarm systems, respiratory protection equipment and annual bench testing. * Successful individual performance ...

Ensure compliance of safety equipment inspections including fire protection equipment and alarm systems, respiratory protection equipment and annual bench testing. * Successful individual performance ...

Coordinate and assist with external contracted inspections, including fire alarms, sprinkler systems, backflow preventors, etc. Supervision of Others * May oversee a team, which could include ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Inspector information

See Dubuque, IA salary details

$35.4K

$59.9K

$92.9K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire inspector in Dubuque, IA is $59,918.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $68,400.00 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.
What cities near Dubuque, IA are hiring for Fire Inspector jobs? Cities near Dubuque, IA with the most Fire Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Inspector job openings in Dubuque, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,918 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Water Distribution Maintenance Worker

Access Dubuque

Dubuque, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Water Distribution Maintenance Worker

City of Dubuque

1 Positions

ID: 788542006-FT-072026

Posted On 07/07/2026

Job Overview

Position Summary

GENERAL SUMMARY: The Water Distribution Maintenance Worker performs and supervises a variety of skilled and semi-skilled tasks in heavy equipment operations, construction, maintenance, inspection, testing, repair and installation of water mains, service lines, fire hydrants, valves and meters in the water distribution system and in the implementation of the backflow prevention program; and performs related work as required. The ideal candidate possesses the ability to follow a management philosophy that is input oriented and values fairness, problem solving and the development of partnerships; works effectively as a member of a team; and desires to be part of an organization that values service, people, integrity, responsibility, innovation, and teamwork.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: Work in this class involves responsibility for performing and supervising a variety of skilled and semi-skilled tasks in heavy equipment operations, construction, maintenance, inspection, testing, repair and installation of water mains, service lines, fire hydrants, valves, and meters and in the implementation of backflow prevention program. Assignments are received in the form of electronic, oral, or written work orders. The work is performed in accordance with general or specific instructions of a supervisor who inspects work while in progress and upon completion.

Job Duties

  • Participate in the construction, maintenance, and emergency repair of the water distribution system; a mandatory stand-by/call-out rotation; and the City's intercultural competency training and program.
  • Install water mains and meters, services lines, fire hydrants and valves.
  • Repair water mains and meters, service lines, fire hydrants and valves.
  • Operate heavy construction equipment including excavators, backhoe, and end-loader; electronic GPS equipment; automotive and specialized equipment including air compressor, generator, hydraulic valve operator, dump truck, abrasive saw, pump, shoring equipment, tamper, tapping machines, jackhammer, electrical tools, back-hoe, mini excavator, forklift, vehicle mounted crane, vacuum equipment, and other equipment; and road and construction equipment and trucks.
  • Read and test water meters.
  • Performbackflow prevention program implementation and flow testing duties; maintenance activities; and site restoration including compaction, landscaping, and concrete work.
  • Establish and maintain records systems.
  • Advise customers, plumbers, and registered backflow prevention assembly testers on backflow prevention program compliance issues.
  • Reassemble and calibrate water meters and backflow prevention devices.
  • Respond to customer complaints, water quality issues and water pressure concerns, and residents' questions and service requests.
  • Cross-train with Water Treatment Plant Operators and Maintenance staff per Department COOP.
  • Collect bacteriological samples.
  • Flush, chlorinate and de-chlorinate water mains.
  • Investigate leaks in mains and service lines.
  • Maintain water mains, service lines, fire hydrants and valves; records of valve and hydrant locations; time records; computerized and manual services and repair work records; program documentation; and automotive and specialized equipment including air compressor, generator, hydraulic valve operator, dump truck, abrasive saw, pump, shoring equipment, tamper, tapping machines, jackhammer, electrical tools, back-hoe, mini excavator, fork lift, vehicle mounted crane, vacuum equipment, and other equipment.
  • Inspect water mains, services lines, fire hydrants and valves; water meters; and the construction of water distribution installations and repairs ensuringstandard compliance.
  • Review materials and construction procedures adhering to specifications.
  • Take field measurements and compile information for recording utility locations.
  • Edit digital records.
  • Excavate and backfill trenches.
  • Load and unload trucks containing heavy materials.
  • Check tires, oil, lubricants, water levels, lights and fuel in vehicles and equipment.
  • Wash, adjust and perform minor repair and maintenance on vehicles and equipment.
  • Analyze and make recommendations on water project engineering and contractor plans and specifications.
  • Track, report and interpret information.
  • Adjust maintenance schedules.
  • Follow-up on maintenance and repairs.
  • Follow safety protocols, rules, and procedures in accordance with OSHA, Iowa One Call and trenching guidelines.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Mechanical- Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
  • Engineering and Technology- Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology which includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
  • Public Safety and Security- Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
  • Critical Thinking - Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
  • Deductive Reasoning - Using rules to solve problems.
  • Arm-Hand Steadiness - Keeping your arm or hand steady.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • At least three (3)-consecutive years' experience in the maintenance or operation of a water or plumbing system or in a related construction field.
  • A minimum of 385 hours'experience in the operation of heavy construction equipment.
  • Possession of a high school diploma or its equivalent.
  • Possession of or ability to obtain and maintain:
  • Class 'A' CDL with airbrake, tanker and combination endorsements.
  • State of Iowa Department of Health certification in testing and repairing backflow prevention devices within 24 months ofappointment.
  • Respirator Use in Confined Spaces Certification within one(1) year of hire (as training schedule permits).
  • Trenching/Shoring Certification within one(1) year of hire (as training schedule permits).
  • State of Iowa Department of Natural Resources Grade II Water Distribution Operator License within 36 months of appointment.
  • Forklift Operator Certificationwithin one year of hire (as training schedule permits).

Supplemental Information

WORKING CONDITIONS: Duties include work in extreme temperatures, humidity, high noise intensity levels, darkness/poor lighting, areas with moving mechanical parts/hazards, dirt/dust, and odorous situations. Work requires constant use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including hardhat, steel toe boots, eye protection, gloves and other equipment as deemed necessary.

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: Employee shall establish their principal place of residence either within the corporate limits of the city of Dubuque or within fifty (50) miles of the corporate limits of the city of Dubuque by the most direct street, road, or highway, as soon as practicable after appointment, but within two years of appointment.

SUPERVISORY STATUS: None

FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt

Primary Contact

214881

City of Dubuque Human Resources Department

Human Resources Department, Human Resources Department

563-589-4125

Phone

Phone

Phone

Fax

[email protected]

Email

True

False

True

Job Details

Categories

Building and Grounds

Government/Public Service

Maintenance/Repair

Location

Dubuque, IA

Job Type

Employee

Full/Part

Full Time

Pay/Salary

$28.68 - $32.05 Hourly

Company ID

931

Job REQ #

788542006-FT-072026

# Positions

1

Start Date

20260707

End Date

20260822

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City of Dubuque

About the Company

Whether at City Hall or out on city streets, our employees serve our residents, businesses, and visitors every day. Join the City of Dubuque team to be part of a high-performance organization dedicated to the community and to delivering excellent municipal services. We are input-oriented, see problems as opportunities, search for creative solutions, and work as a team to accomplish goals and build partnerships. At the City of Dubuque, your work is meaningful and supports the community.

The City of Dubuque values its employees and offers competitive salaries and benefits such as:

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • 12 weeks of Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Time Off and 11 Paid Holidays
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Retirement Savings (IPERS)
  • Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Life and AD&D Insurance Coverage
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Longevity Pay Starting After 6 Years of Service
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
  • Paid Time Volunteering

With positions in over 30 departments and divisions, your perfect career fit is waiting for you at the City of Dubuque. Ready to join our team? Visit www.CityOfDubuque.org/Jobs .