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Fire Investigator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Fire Inspector I/II

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$61K/yr

Positions in the Fire Inspector I class perform fire inspections, and origin and cause investigations as assigned. Employees will progress to this class by a noncompetitive promotion upon meeting the ...

Positions in the Fire Inspector I class perform fire inspections, and origin and cause investigations as assigned. Employees will progress to this class by a noncompetitive promotion upon meeting the ...

Fire Marshal

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$113K - $163K/yr

A Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science or Business Management; and * 5 years of experience in fire prevention, inspection and investigation work including at least 3 years of supervisory experience; and

Fire Marshal

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$113K - $163K/yr

Minimum qualifications A Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science or Business Management; and 5 years of experience in fire prevention, inspection and investigation work including at least 3 years of ...

Established in 2009, Impact Fire Services was the vision of a group of experienced industry professionals that wanted to build a best-in-class fire protection and life safety company. Through ...

Investigate fire system failures, identify root causes, and recommend corrective actions. * Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) throughout ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$82K - $111K/yr

... in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly upheld since 1939 ... investigations, security risk consulting, emergency management, digital innovation and more. Our ...

... in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly upheld since 1939 ... investigations, security risk consulting, emergency management, digital innovation and more. Our ...

Fire Senior Inspector

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$33.84 - $49.06/hr

Fire/Arson Investigator Certification (AZIAAI I-IV, or NFA, or IAAI, or NAFI, or equivalent state Certification) within 2 years of hire or promotion * ICC Fire Inspector II Certifications within 1 ...

... in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly upheld since 1939 ... investigations, security risk consulting, emergency management, digital innovation and more. Our ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$82K - $111K/yr

... in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly upheld since 1939 ... investigations, security risk consulting, emergency management, digital innovation and more. Our ...

... in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly upheld since 1939 ... investigations, security risk consulting, emergency management, digital innovation and more. Our ...

... in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly upheld since 1939 ... investigations, security risk consulting, emergency management, digital innovation and more. Our ...

Fire Alarm Designer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

... in fire protection engineering - a legacy of responsibility we have proudly upheld since 1939 ... investigations, security risk consulting, emergency management, digital innovation and more. Our ...

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Fire Investigator information

See Arizona salary details

$33.1K

$64.6K

$103K

How much do fire investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire investigator in Arizona is $64,605.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $74,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire investigator?

A fire investigator investigates the cause of fires, particularly when arson is suspected. Fire investigators examine the crime scene, process latent print samples, gather evidence using collection tools, interview witnesses, process the evidence collections, and report their findings to law enforcement agencies. A fire investigator examines the crime scene and determines how the fire started. Similar roles include arson investigator, firefighter, and forensic science technician.

What does a fire investigator do?

A Fire Investigator is responsible for determining the origin and cause of fires. They examine fire scenes, collect evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze burn patterns to figure out how and why a fire started. Fire Investigators may work for fire departments, law enforcement agencies, or insurance companies. Their findings can be used in criminal investigations, legal proceedings, and to improve fire prevention strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Investigator, you need a solid understanding of fire science, investigative techniques, and a background in law enforcement or fire service, often supported by certifications like Certified Fire Investigator (CFI). Familiarity with evidence collection tools, fire modeling software, and report-writing systems is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding investigators apart. These skills ensure accurate determinations of fire causes, support legal proceedings, and enhance public safety.

What are some common challenges faced by fire investigators during the course of an investigation?

Fire Investigators often encounter challenges such as sifting through hazardous or unstable environments, distinguishing between accidental and intentional causes, and gathering evidence that may have been damaged or destroyed by fire. These professionals must also work collaboratively with law enforcement, insurance representatives, and sometimes testify in court, which requires strong communication and documentation skills. Staying current with fire science techniques and investigative technology is essential to overcome these challenges and ensure accurate, thorough investigations.

What is the difference between Fire Investigator vs Fire Marshal?

AspectFire InvestigatorFire Marshal
CertificationsFire Investigation Certification, Fire Inspector CertificationFire Investigation Certification, Fire Inspector Certification, sometimes Fire Prevention Certifications
Work EnvironmentScene investigation sites, laboratories, forensic settingsFire prevention, code enforcement, public education, investigation
Employer & IndustryFire departments, law enforcement, forensic labsMunicipal fire departments, government agencies, fire prevention offices

Fire Investigators focus on determining the cause of fires, often working at fire scenes and forensic labs. Fire Marshals have broader roles including fire prevention, code enforcement, and public safety education, often overseeing fire investigations. Both roles require similar certifications, but their primary responsibilities and work environments differ.

Can you be a fire investigator without being a firefighter?

Yes, a fire investigator can be a trained professional who specializes in determining the cause of fires without being a firefighter. Many fire investigators have backgrounds in law enforcement, forensic science, or fire science, and they often hold certifications such as those from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

How hard is it to become a fire investigator?

Becoming a fire investigator typically requires a combination of education, such as a high school diploma or GED, and experience in fire service or law enforcement. Many fire investigators also pursue certifications from organizations like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and some states require licensing or specialized training, making the process moderately challenging depending on individual background and dedication.

What education do you need to be a fire investigator?

Fire investigators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many having post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in fire science, criminal justice, or a related field. Relevant training, certifications, and experience in fire investigation techniques and the use of specialized tools are also important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Investigator jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Fire Investigator jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Fire Investigator jobs in Arizona?

For Fire Investigator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Fire Investigator jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Fire Investigator job openings:

Infographic showing various Fire Investigator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,605 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Fire Inspector I/II

City of Mesa

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$61K/yr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


City Of Mesa rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

200th of 856 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description/Duties This recruitment will be used to fill one (1) part time vacancy at either the Fire Inspector I or II level; however, this recruitment will also be used to create a list to fill possible future vacancies at any level. Fire Inspector I ($61,055.70 - $88,572.85) A Fire Inspector I independently performs fire inspections of occupancies, of which a majority are considered low-to-medium hazard occupancies, including small-to- medium sized public assemblies with an occupant load of 50-299, large mercantile without significant hazardous materials, and educational facilities; fire inspections of some high-hazard occupancies with some guidance or assistance, which include institutional facilities such as care facilities; large public assemblies with occupant loads of 300 or more; and high-rises. An employee in this class performs technical inspections of buildings, facilities, grounds, and processes to determine conformance with City codes and regulations; delivers safety programs on topics such as fire safety, housekeeping, sprinkler systems, and smoke detectors; and researches, analyzes, and reports on topics related to prevention programs

This class is also responsible for performing related duties as required. In addition to conducting fire safety inspections and follow ups, some Fire Inspector I positions are trained and assigned to conduct origin and cause investigations and respond to fire scenes as requested both during their regular workweek and on a stand-by/call-out basis, with the origin and cause responses taking priority over their inspection duties. The Fire Inspector I is distinguished from the Fire Inspector II in that the latter is responsible for independently and primarily inspecting medium and high-hazard occupancies.

The Fire Inspector I is also distinguished from the Fire Inspector Trainee in that they are able to work independently on mainly low-to-medium hazard businesses, while the Fire Inspector Trainee is an entry-level position which participates in an on-the-job training program to learn to independently perform inspection duties. The work of the Fire Inspector I class requires that employees work independently, utilize problem solving methods, good judgment, and a high degree of tact and diplomacy. Positions in the Fire Inspector I class perform fire inspections, and origin and cause investigations as assigned.

Employees will progress to this class by a noncompetitive promotion upon meeting the specific criteria-based promotion requirements of performance and certification, including the investigations related training, proficiency, and certification requirements for positions assigned to conduct the origin and cause investigations. Supervision is received from Assistant Fire Marshals who review work through observations, reports, meetings, and overall inspection results. The Fire Inspector I may also receive direction and guidance from a Fire Inspector II or III for high-hazard occupancies, career development and operational consistency, and may be used to train or mentor the Fire Inspector Trainee.

Employees in this class will be required to work holidays, evenings, or weekends for inspection related activities, as necessary, and may be subject to stand-by and call-out, which are routine for Fire Inspector I also assigned to conduct fire origin and cause investigations. Work schedules and locations are subject to change based on business needs. This class is FLSA nonexempt.

Fire Inspector II ($67,291.74 - $97,620.22) A Fire Inspector II independently performs fire inspections of occupancies, of which a majority are medium and high-hazard risk occupancies per National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1730, Standard on Organization and Deployment of Fire Prevention Inspection and Code Enforcement, Plan Review, Investigation, and Public Education Operations. Medium and high-hazard risk occupancy buildings include institutional facilities such as hospitals, jails, and care facilities; public assemblies with occupant loads under 300; factories without special processes; aircraft storage and repair facilities; and large mercantile and business office occupancies (some of which may be in excess of 50,000 square feet). An employee in this class performs technical inspections of buildings, facilities, event grounds, and processes to determine conformance with City codes and regulations; delivers safety programs on topics such as fire safety, housekeeping, sprinkler systems, and smoke detectors; and researches, analyzes, and reports on topics related to prevention programs

This class is also responsible for performing related duties as required. In addition to conducting fire safety inspections and follow ups, some Fire Inspector II positions are trained and assigned to conduct origin and cause investigations and respond to fire scenes as requested both during their regular workweek and on a stand-by/call-out basis, with the origin and cause responses taking priority over their inspection duties. The Fire Inspector II class is distinguished from the Fire Inspector I by inspections requiring the application of greater specialized knowledge of the fire and building code as it pertains to higher hazard occupancies, and storage of hazardous materials.

Incumbents may advise the Division Chief assigned as Fire Marshal and the Assistant Fire Marshals on technical code or hazardous storage matters, and assists the Fire Inspector Trainee and Fire Inspector I as needed. The work of the Fire Inspector II class is highly independent and requires that employees prioritize their own work, utilize problem solving methods, good judgment, and a high degree of tact and diplomacy. Positions in the Fire Inspector II class perform fire inspections, and origin and cause investigations as assigned.

Employees may progress to this class by a noncompetitive promotion upon meeting the specific criteria-based promotion requirements of performance and certification. Minimal supervision is received from the Assistant Fire Marshal for Fire Inspections, who functions as a Deputy Fire Marshal, and who reviews work through observations, reports, meetings, and overall inspection results. Fire Inspector IIs may give technical assistance and direction to the Fire Inspector I or Trainee, as necessary.

Employees in this class are required to work as needed on holidays, evenings, or weekends for fire prevention related activities and may be subject to stand-by and call-out, which are routine for Fire Inspector IIs also assigned to conduct fire origin and cause investigations. Work schedules and locations are subject to change based on business needs. This class is FLSA nonexempt.

Please refer to the link below for the full job description and additional information regarding assignments, preferred qualifications, and essential functions. Qualifications & Requirements Employee Values: All employees of the City of Mesa are expected to uphold and exhibit the City's shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity. Fire Inspector I Minimum Qualifications Required.

High School Diploma or GED. Two years of experience conducting fire prevention inspections, building inspections, or inspections in a closely related field, including one year of experience conducting inspections in medium-hazard occupancies; OR one year of experience as a City of Mesa Fire Inspector Trainee with successful completion of the criteria-based promotional process. Special Requirements.

Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License by hire or promotion date. Must possess an Arizona State Fire Inspector I certification (or an equivalent Fire Inspector I certification from another state) or National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Inspector I certification by hire or promotion date. Must possess an Arizona Fire Inspector I certification within two years of hire or promotion date and maintain certification/annual training thereafter.

Positions assigned to conduct fire origin and cause investigations must live within 15 miles of the City of Mesa; must meet the qualifications to wear a tight-fitting respirator by passing a medical evaluation in accordance with Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1910.134 by hire or promotion date and must maintain certification; and must obtain Fire Investigation Technician certification through the International Association of Arson Investigations (IAAI) within two years of assignment. Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment or pre-placement alcohol, drug and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy and procedures

Preferred/Desirable Qualifications. Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate's Degree in Fire Science, Fire Science Technology, or closely related field is preferred. International Code Council (ICC) Fire Inspector I certification is desirable.

Experience/training in the fire service, customer service, and public speaking are also highly desirable. Fire Inspector II Minimum Qualifications Required. High School Diploma or GED.

Four years of experience in conducting fire prevention inspections, building inspections, or inspections in a closely related field, including one year of experience conducting inspections in high-hazard occupancies; OR two years of experience as a City of Mesa Fire Inspector I with successful completion of the criteria-based promotional process. Special Requirements. Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License by hire/promotion date.

Must possess an Arizona State Fire Inspector II certification (or an equivalent Fire Inspector II certification from another state) or NFPA Fire Inspector II certification. Must possess an Arizona Fire Inspector II certification within two years of hire or promotion and maintain certification/annual training thereafter. Positions assigned to conduct fire origin and cause investigations must live within 15 miles of the City of Mesa; must meet the qualifications to wear a tight fitting respirator by passing a medical evaluation in accordance with Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1910.134 by hire or promotion date and must maintain certification; and must obtain Fire Investigation Technician certification through the International Association of Arson Investigations (IAAI) within two years of assignment

Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment or pre-placement alcohol, drug and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy and procedures. Preferred/Desirable Qualifications.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate's Degree in Fire Science, Fire Science Technology, or closely related field is preferred. International Code Council (ICC) Fire Inspector II certification is desirable. Experience/training in the fire service, customer service, and public speaking are also highly desirable.

Link to Job Description Fire Inspector I https://apps.mesaaz.gov/JobDescriptions/Documents/JobDescriptions/cs4458.pdf Fire Inspector II https://apps.mesaaz.gov/JobDescriptions/Documents/JobDescriptions/cs4545.pdf


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