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Fire Investigator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

This role also supports fire research, investigation, and risk assessment projects, including evaluating structures and developing pre-fire plans. The ideal candidate has deep technical expertise in ...

This role also supports fire research, investigation, and risk assessment projects, including evaluating structures and developing pre-fire plans. The ideal candidate has deep technical expertise in ...

Investigating and troubleshooting problems related to building fire protection equipment and systems. Investigating complaints against builders or property owners, for validity, and recommending ...

New

Fire Inspector II

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$60K - $106K/yr

Investigating and troubleshooting problems related to building fire protection equipment and systems. Investigating complaints against builders or property owners, for validity, and recommending ...

Fire Inspector II

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$60K - $106K/yr

Investigating and troubleshooting problems related to building fire protection equipment and systems. Investigating complaints against builders or property owners, for validity, and recommending ...

New

Fire Protection Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$62K - $141K/yr

Review and conduct comprehensive fire safety audits, inspections, and investigations of company operations to ensure compliance with fire protections codes and standards. * Conduct inspections of new ...

Review and conduct comprehensive fire safety audits, inspections, and investigations of company operations to ensure compliance with fire protections codes and standards. * Conduct inspections of new ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Investigator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$36.9K

$72.1K

$115K

How much do fire investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire investigator in Reston, VA is $72,125.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $83,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Fire Investigator jobs in Reston, VA? For Fire Investigator jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Investigator jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Investigator jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Fire Investigator jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Fire Investigator job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Investigator job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,125 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

$32.85 - $45.99/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Compensation Grade:
S17-H
Salary Range:
$32.85-$45.99
Opening Date:
July 15, 2026
Closing Date:
Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.
As a Fire Inspector, you will ensure and enforce compliance with fire prevention codes and related regulations, standards, and guidelines by reviewing plans and conducting tests and inspections. Your work will have significant impact on the safety of employees and airport users.
Fire Inspector
Serves in the Fire Code Enforcement Division (FCED) of the Fire and Rescue Department in the Office of Public Safety at either Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
Performs code enforcement and inspections. Plans review of and fire systems testing on all Airports Authority property to ensure compliance with the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (VSFPC) and all related regulations, standards, and guidelines. Performs related functions.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Reviews documents on pertinent information, incidents, policies, and procedures.
Maintains readiness to respond to service calls. Responds to inquiries or complaints.
Reviews design and construction specifications or drawings for adherence to the VSFPC and other requirements and standards.
Evaluates proposals for installation of new systems, such as commercial kitchen hood systems or fire alarm systems, for their effect on existing systems and activities.
Reviews construction for compliance with approved plans, drawings, and specifications.
Determines and recognizes the need for fire code permits; issues fire code permits.
Conducts field inspections of fire protection systems, existing and new construction, and renovation projects. Verifies compliance with established standards and requirements.
Identifies violations and issues notices of violations; takes measures to ensure corrections.
Develops plans for acceptance or re-acceptance testing; coordinates and conducts the testing process; reports results to the Fire Marshal or the Building Code Official.
Investigates and troubleshoots problems related to fire-protection equipment and systems.
Issues Notices of Violation(s) and parking citations for fire lane violations.
Verifies that emergency planning and preparedness measures required by the VSFPC are in place and have been practiced.
Evaluates dangerous or hazardous situations. Identifies courses of action and acts decisively.
Attends training on codes, regulations, and standards.
Prepares, conducts, and leads or helps lead recertification training.
Assists Virginia certified Fire Investigators in fire, hazardous material, and other incident investigations to determine if fire code violations exist or contributed to the incident.
Educates airport personnel, tenants, and the public on code issues and fire prevention.
Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Three years of progressively responsible experience in performing fire code inspections.
Knowledge of and ability to conduct inspections for compliance with building construction standards, code requirements, reference standards (e.g., VSFPC, pertinent National Fire Protection Association [NFPA]), and other requirements and standards.
Ability to quickly and safely respond to the immediate aftermath of fire incidents.
Ability to perform regularly recurring Fire Inspector functions.
Skill in using fire code inspection techniques and related tools and equipment.
Ability to speak and write effectively.
Skill in using a computer and modern office suite software.
Ability to analyze data and information (including blueprints and schematics).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Certified as a Fire Investigator (NFPA 1033) from the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.
Certified Law Enforcement through the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.
Certification of successful completion of accredited training in National Incident Management System Modules IS 100 & IS 700 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Certification in Hazardous Materials Awareness or Operations from the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP)
EDUCATION
A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED).
CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED
A state driver's license in good standing.
Certified as a Fire Inspector (NFPA 1031) from the Virginia Department of Fire Programs
Certification of successful completion of the Core Module through the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Building Code Academy
NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS
Work is typically reviewed in progress upon completion for quantity, quality, timeliness, teamwork, customer service, and other factors.
Operates vehicle landside and airside (requires AOA permit).
May be subject to hold over and recall on a 24-hour basis for essential services and emergencies.
May be subject to adverse weather conditions and dust/grease/dirt.
May be subject to potential hazards common to the airport environment and firefighting. Wears personal protective gear, as necessary.
WHAT WE OFFER
A career with the Airports Authority comes with more than just a paycheck; it offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family's health, financial security, and professional growth. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; well-being resources; health savings and flexible spending accounts; pension and retirement plans; and ongoing training and development opportunities. Discover more about our benefits package here.
A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.