ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Fire Inspector Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

MGB Services

Fire Sprinkler Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

NFPA 25 - Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems * North Carolina State Fire Code * North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) requirements * Perform ...

MGB Services

Fire Sprinkler Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

NFPA 25 - Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems * North Carolina State Fire Code * North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) requirements * Perform ...

Summit Fire & Security

Inspector

Raleigh, NC

Inspect, test, and maintain fire protection systems in accordance with NFPA codes with working knowledge of sprinkler controls, alarm panels, devices and critical components. * Record and report ...

Summit Fire & Security

Inspector

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$30/hr

Inspect, test, and maintain fire protection systems in accordance with NFPA codes with working knowledge of sprinkler controls, alarm panels, devices and critical components. * Record and report ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFire Inspector JobsFire Inspector Jobs in Durham, NC

Fire Inspector information

See Durham, NC salary details

$36.2K

$61.4K

$95.2K

How much do fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire inspector in Durham, NC is $61,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,200.00 and $70,100.00 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.
More about Fire Inspector jobs
What are popular job titles related to Fire Inspector jobs in Durham, NC? For Fire Inspector jobs in Durham, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Inspector jobs in Durham, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Inspector jobs in Durham, NC are:
What cities near Durham, NC are hiring for Fire Inspector jobs? Cities near Durham, NC with the most Fire Inspector job openings:
Fire Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Inspector job openings in Durham, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,400 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
Fire Sprinkler Foreman

Fire Sprinkler Foreman

CENTURY FIRE PROTECTION LLC

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Century Fire Protection rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 37 rated health and safety providers

Job description

Summary

Responsible for leading and supervising fire sprinkler installation crews on active job sites; coordinating daily work activities, ensuring installations meet NFPA standards and project specifications, and maintaining safety, quality, and productivity in the field.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Supervise and direct fire sprinkler installers and fitters on job sites.
  • Plan and assign daily work activities to meet project schedules.
  • Read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and shop drawings.
  • Ensure fire sprinkler systems are installed per NFPA standards and local codes.
  • Coordinate manpower, materials, and equipment needs with the superintendent and project manager.
  • Conduct job site safety meetings and enforce OSHA and company safety policies.
  • Inspect work quality and correct deficiencies.
  • Support system testing, flushing, and final inspections.
  • Communicate job progress, issues, and manpower needs to management.
  • Train and mentor installers and apprentices.

Education and/or Experience

High school diploma and 5+ years of fire sprinkler installation experience; previous lead fitter or foreman experience preferred; NICET certification or trade-related certifications preferred; strong knowledge of fire sprinkler installation practices and NFPA standards; ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.

Computer Skills 

Basic computer skills, email.

Physical Demands

Frequent standing, walking, crouching/bending, climbing ladders, and working at heights; ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs; ability to work in confined spaces and variable weather conditions; exposure to noise, dust, and construction environments.

What Century Fire Protection employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply