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Fire Investigation Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Fire Inspector

Toledo, OH · On-site

$69K - $72K/yr

Conducts field investigations of commercial and four-family or greater residential properties for sprinklers, standpipe and alarm systems and possible fire code violations on routine or complaint ...

Fire Inspector

Toledo, OH · On-site

$69K - $72K/yr

Conducts field investigations of commercial and four-family or greater residential properties for sprinklers, standpipe and alarm systems and possible fire code violations on routine or complaint ...

Fire District Chief-40

Dayton, OH · On-site

$118K - $131K/yr

Background Check A background investigation is required prior to employment. All candidates must ... Fire Engineering (Copyright 2019) 3. Mastering Fireground Command: Calm the Chaos! - Kastro and ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Apply concepts of fire protection engineering through investigation and analysis to support engineering projects that may include design of fire suppression systems (sprinklers and standpipes, water ...

Fire Protection EIT

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Apply general concepts of fire protection engineering through investigation and analysis to support engineering projects that may include design of fire suppression systems (sprinklers and standpipes ...

... investigate and resolve root causes ● • Perform emergency repairs to restore system ... fire system impairment tracking and reporting processes ● • Participate in fire watch ...

... Investigate nuisance alarms, repeat trouble conditions, device failures, communication issues, and other recurring problems; complete root-cause analysis and corrective action. 13 Develop critical ...

$70 - $90/hr

Engineer (m/f/i) - Fire Alarm Control & Detection In the area of security, we are expanding our ... product investigations, assisting and guiding technicians and preparing technical reports for ...

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Fire Investigation information

See Ohio salary details

$33.8K

$65.9K

$105.1K

How much do fire investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire investigation in Ohio is $65,909.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,800.00 and $76,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire investigation?

A Fire Investigation job involves determining the origin and cause of fires. Fire investigators examine fire scenes, collect evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze burn patterns to identify whether a fire was accidental or intentional. They often work with law enforcement, fire departments, and insurance companies to establish facts and support legal proceedings. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of fire science are essential for this role.

What skills and qualifications are needed for fire investigation?

Fire Investigators require a strong background in fire science, criminal investigation methods, and relevant certifications such as Certified Fire Investigator (CFI) or equivalent law enforcement/forensic qualifications. They must be proficient with evidence collection tools, fire modeling software, and scene documentation technology. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, communication abilities, and impartial judgment are crucial soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure thorough, accurate investigations that stand up to legal scrutiny and contribute to public safety.

What are the typical work environments and team dynamics for fire investigators?

Fire Investigators usually work for fire departments, insurance companies, law enforcement agencies, or private investigation firms, and their work environment can range from on-site fire scenes to office spaces for report writing and analysis. Most investigations require collaboration with firefighters, law enforcement, insurance adjusters, and forensic specialists to gather evidence and establish causes. Team structures are often multidisciplinary, combining technical expertise and investigative skills. The role can involve irregular hours and requires adaptability, especially when responding to fires outside standard business times. As experience grows, investigators may move into supervisory or specialized roles, expanding their responsibilities and expertise.

Can I become a fire investigator without being a firefighter?

Fire investigators do not need to be firefighters, but many have backgrounds in fire service, law enforcement, or related fields. Relevant skills include knowledge of fire science, investigation techniques, and often certification such as the Fire Investigation Certification. Prior experience in emergency response or law enforcement can be beneficial but is not always required.

How do you become a fire investigation?

To become a fire investigator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training in fire science, criminal justice, or a related field. Many fire investigators gain experience as firefighters or in law enforcement, and certification from organizations like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) or the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) can enhance job prospects.

What does a fire investigation do?

A fire investigation involves examining the scene of a fire to determine its cause and origin. Fire investigators analyze evidence, interview witnesses, and may use tools like fire modeling software to understand how the fire started and spread, which helps in preventing future incidents and identifying potential arson. The role often requires knowledge of fire science, safety protocols, and certification in fire investigation techniques.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Investigation jobs in Ohio?

For Fire Investigation jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fire Investigation jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Investigation jobs in Ohio are:

Infographic showing various Fire Investigation job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,909 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Part-time (Contractual) Fire Safety Inspector

Kettering, OH • On-site

$21.25 - $23.80/hr

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary: $21.25 - $23.80 Hourly
Location : Kettering Fire Department, OH
Job Type: Contractual
Job Number: 202600074
Department: FIRE
Opening Date: 08/21/2026
Closing Date: 9/7/2026 5:00 PM Eastern
Job Posting
GENERAL
The City of Kettering is recruiting to fill the Contractual Part-Time position of "Fire Safety Inspector". Under direction from the Fire Chief, the Fire Safety Inspector issues fire permits, conducts fire permit inspections and fire education to the public, identifies, investigates and resolves potential violations of municipal, state, national, and international laws, ordinances, codes and regulations including, but not limited to, building and fire codes and nuisance abatement regulations, and provides information and general assistance to business owners, homeowners, tenants, and the public.
QUALIFICATIONS
Candidates should have thorough knowledge of fire hazards and fire prevention techniques and applicable building, fire and related codes and laws; considerable knowledge of fire alarm and protection systems; general knowledge of fire control; strong knowledge of the principles, practices, methods and equipment employed in modern firefighting and the emergency medical services; ability to instruct fire inspection classes; knowledge of the hazards and corresponding safety precautions necessary for the safe performance of assigned duties; strong customer service; ability to make independent decisions requiring technical knowledge and judgment; strong written, oral communication and presentation skills; proven ability to prepare technical and administrative reports; must handle confidential information appropriately; math skills necessary to determine code compliance; ability to acquire considerable knowledge of city geography including location of water mains and hydrants; ability to work with limited supervision; ability to coordinate and perform activities and procedures necessary to correctly apply fire safety codes and ordinances; ability to carry out administrative duties as assigned; must obtain certification in Fire Investigation; general knowledge of computers and basic office skills.
Candidates must meet the NFPA Standard (1001) for Professional Qualifications of Firefighter, NFPA (1021) Fire Officer, and NFPA (1031) Fire Inspector, or be a civilian with previous firefighting experience and significant experience in fire inspection and prevention. Must maintain Ohio Fire Safety Inspector, Ohio Board of Building Standards Fire Protection Inspector. Must hold a valid Ohio Driver's License.
Within one year of appointment: must obtain their Ohio Board of Building Standards Fire Protection Inspector certification and a valid American Heart CPR, AED, and First Aid card.
COMPENSATION
The Fire Safety Inspector position is an unclassified position with an hourly rate from $21.25/hour to $23.80/hour, contingent upon the candidate's related skills, knowledge, and abilities.
TO APPLY
Applicants must use our online application portal to apply and submit a resume and cover letter by 5 p.m. ET on Monday, September 7, 2026. For more information about this position, including a position description, please visit
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Job Description
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:
Under direction from the Fire Marshal, the Fire Prevention Inspector issues fire permits, conducts fire safety inspections and educates the general public about fire safety. The candidate identifies, investigates and resolves potential violations of municipal, state, national, and international laws, ordinances, codes and regulations including, but not limited to, building and fire codes and nuisance abatement regulations, and provides information and general assistance to business owners, homeowners, tenants, and the general public.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE POSITION:
Performs a combination of field inspection and office work and enforces compliance with City ordinances and State codes in one or more of the following areas:
  • Ohio Fire Code (DFC)
  • Local Ordinances
The candidate ensures compliance with City ordinances and State codes through performing field inspections and observation. Must be able to work effectively and cooperate with other staff members in a multi-discipline department that emphasizes teamwork. Does related work as required.
Examples of Duties
EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative Only)
Ensures compliance and provides technical advice on the interpretation of fire safety codes/regulations and building codes to business owners, departmental offices/staff and the general public;
  • Schedules, coordinates and performs fire safety inspections in businesses;
  • Prepares inspections reports;
  • Maintains statistics and records of inspections;
  • Identifies corrective actions to be taken by business owners and monitors activities to ensure conformance with codes, laws and regulations;
  • Issues infraction/misdemeanor citations for violations of the Fire Code;
  • Investigates and documents complaints of violation of international, state and local laws, ordinances and codes within the authority of the Kettering Fire Department;
  • Identifies violations of other City codes and regulations and notifies appropriate City officials;
  • Attends administrative hearings as required;
  • Provides regular inspections of construction projects;
  • Prepares a variety of written reports;
  • Regular and predictable attendance required.

Typical Qualifications
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Thorough knowledge of fire hazards; fire prevention techniques; applicable building codes, fire codes and other related laws; considerable knowledge of fire alarms and protection systems; general knowledge of fire control; strong knowledge of the principles, practices, methods and equipment employed in modern firefighting and emergency medical services; ability to instruct fire inspection classes; knowledge of the hazards and corresponding safety precautions necessary for the safe performance of assigned duties; strong customer service; ability to make independent decisions requiring technical knowledge and judgment; strong written, oral communication and presentation skills; proven ability to prepare technical and administrative reports; must handle confidential information appropriately; math skills necessary to determine code compliance; ability to acquire considerable knowledge of city geography including location of water mains and hydrants; ability to work with limited supervision; ability to coordinate and perform activities and procedures necessary to correctly apply fire safety codes and ordinances; ability to carry out administrative duties as assigned; general knowledge of computers and basic office skills.
Ability to safely and effectively:
  • Climb stairs and ladders to inspect buildings;
  • Inspect high areas such as rooftops and ceilings;
  • Use fingers/hands/arms frequently;
  • Occasional crawling, kneeling, bending and climbing;
    • Ability to reach over shoulders;
    • Able to detect the presence of fire, smoke, and hazardous chemicals using the senses of vision, touch and smell;
    • Possess sufficient visual acuity in order to function optimally in dense smoke and darkness;
    • Remain physically and mentally alert during prolonged periods of intense, sustained physical activity in difficult environments;
    • Maneuver around construction sites, including those with rough terrain and tight spaces;
    • Work in all weather and terrain conditions;
    • Move about in close areas;
    • Open and close valves;
    • Read gauges;
    • Visually inspect buildings;
    • Read and comprehend written instructions, training and directives;
    • Read and comprehend blueprints and written documentation of building construction and building system design;
    • Generate detailed written reports;
    • Use a computer and related software;
    • Communicate orally in English;
    • Hear, understand, and implement oral instructions and commands;
    • Understand the theories of fire science, fire safety and fire prevention;
    • Apply theoretical knowledge on a practical level;
    • Use math skills necessary for plans review and inspection;
    • Retain factual information concerning fire codes;
    • Make consistent, reasoned judgments;
    • Work cooperatively with staff and the public;
    • Organize files and related material;
    • Drive a vehicle and have a valid Ohio driver's license and remain insurable, without penalty or surcharge, under the City's insurance plan.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
Must meet the NFPA Standard (1001) for Professional Qualifications of Firefighter, NFPA (1021) Fire Officer and NFPA (1031) Fire Safety Inspector or be a civilian with previous firefighting experience and significant experience in fire safety inspection and prevention. Ohio Fire Safety Inspector certification must be maintained. Ohio Board of Building Standards Fire Protection Inspector is recommended and encouraged. Within one year of appointment, must obtain a valid American Heart CPR, AED and First Aid card.
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