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Fire Investigator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Efi global

Fire Investigator, IAAI - CFI

Orange, CA

To investigate fire events to determine origin, cause, and responsibility in accordance with assignments from clients or assigned legal counsel. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES * Accepts ...

City of Redlands

Deputy Fire Marshal

Redlands, CA

$119K - $149K/yr

As directed, responds to fire scenes to assist in the investigation of the origin and cause of fires and fire protection system effectiveness; Maintains records and prepares departmental reports;

City of Redlands, CA

Deputy Fire Marshal

Redlands, CA · On-site

$119K - $149K/yr

As directed, responds to fire scenes to assist in the investigation of the origin and cause of fires and fire protection system effectiveness; * Maintains records and prepares departmental reports;

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All JobsFire Investigator JobsFire Investigator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Fire Investigator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$37K

$72.3K

$115.3K

How much do fire investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire investigator in Riverside, CA is $72,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,900.00 and $83,500.00 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.

How do you become a fire investigator?

To become a fire investigator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant 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) can enhance job prospects.

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.

Can you be a fire investigator without being a firefighter?

Yes, a fire investigator can work without being a firefighter, as the role often requires specialized training in fire science, evidence collection, and investigation techniques rather than firefighting experience. Many fire investigators are trained law enforcement officers, fire science graduates, or have certifications such as the Certified Fire Investigator (CFI) credential. While some fire investigators have firefighting backgrounds, it is not a strict requirement for the position.

Is it hard to become a fire investigator?

Becoming a fire investigator typically requires a combination of education, such as a high school diploma or higher, and experience in fire service or law enforcement. Many fire investigators also pursue certifications from professional organizations, which can involve training and passing exams, making the process somewhat challenging but achievable with dedication.
More about Fire Investigator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Fire Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
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What job categories do people searching Fire Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Fire Investigator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Fire Investigator job openings:
Fire Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Investigator job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,327 per year, or $34.8 per hour.
Fire Investigator, IAAI - CFI

Fire Investigator, IAAI - CFI

Efi global

Orange, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

The 'Apply with SEEK option' will be utilized for International applicants, mainly Australia. If this does not apply to you please use the 'Apply' option.

IF YOU CARE, THERE'S A PLACE FOR YOU HERE

EFI Global is a full-service engineering, fire investigation, environmental, health and safety, and specialty consulting services firm serving a variety of industries in both the public and private sectors. Over the last four decades, we have grown from a boutique firm specializing in handling insurance fraud and arson cases and providing expert witness testimony, into a recognized global leader in engineering failure analysis, origin-and-cause investigations, environmental consulting, laboratory testing and specialty consulting. Our forensic investigation, engineering and environmental services teams around the world share a dedication to expertise, quality and demonstrating to customers that caring counts. Each of our more than 700 professional engineers, fire investigators, architects and scientists was selected for their technical proficiency, in-depth industry knowledge and commitment to professional integrity. Together, our diverse backgrounds and collective insights empower clients to make better-informed business decisions. EFI's combination of global solutions and local expertise has earned the firm a reputation for delivering timely responses that consistently meet our clients' expectations-anytime, anywhere. Click here to learn more about EFI Global.

PRIMARY PURPOSE:To investigate fire events to determine origin, cause, and responsibility in accordance with assignments from clients or assigned legal counsel. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Accepts assignments from customers for investigation of losses or claims and pursues investigation in accordance with the specific needs of the assignment.
  • Determines the origin and cause of the loss/claim under investigation and identifies any potential third-party responsibility for subrogation potential.
  • Maintains required reporting commitments to client in accordance with EFI's standard procedures.
  • Promotes and markets utilization of EFI services in the insurance industry and within assigned territory
  • Serves as a liaison between the insurance industry and law enforcement/fire service personnel.
  • Investigates losses/claims with illegal, fraudulent or subrogation aspects in accordance with assignment from client or assigned attorney representing insurer.
  • Identifies and interviews all witnesses or involved persons who may possess information or knowledge pertaining to incident under investigation: motive, opportunity or any other information or evidence that may assist in concluding a factual and complete investigation.
  • Develops necessary knowledge and expertise required to conduct thorough inspection of available public records including land deeds, mortgages, liens, suits, judgments, marriage and divorce records, etc.
  • Maintains up-to-date information in regard to existing laws pertaining to rights of privacy and availability of public records to assure that all investigations are conducted in a completely legal and ethical manner.
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Travels as required.
Education & LicensingBachelor's degree from an accredited college or university preferred. Minimum certification requirement for consideration, Certified Fire & Explosion Investigator (CFEI). IAAI Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI) certification is preferred. Will be required to obtain the IAAI-CFI certification within 6 months of employment.Experience
Three (3) years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience required.Skills & Knowledge
  • Good oral and written communication
  • PC literate, including Microsoft Office products
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Good analytical and interpretive skills
  • Strong investigative skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to work independently or in a team environment
  • Ability to meet or exceed Performance Competencies
WORK ENVIRONMENT
When applicable and appropriate, consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations.Mental: Clear and conceptual thinking ability; excellent judgment and discretion; ability to handle work-related stress; ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously; and ability to meet deadlinesPhysical:
  • Must be able to stand and/or walk for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to kneel, squat or bend.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in hot and/or cold weather conditions.
  • Have the ability to climb, crawl, stoop, kneel, reaching/working overhead,
  • Be able lift/carry up to 50 pounds
  • Be able to push/pull up to 100 pounds.
  • Be able to drive up to 4 hours per day.
Auditory/Visual: Hearing, vision and talkingNEXT STEPSIf your application is selected to advance to the next round, you will receive an e-mail notification or phone call from a recruiter to schedule an initial call.

#LI-SC2 #LI-Remote

#CertifiedFireInvestigator #FireInvestigator #OriginAndCause #ArsonInvestigation #FireScience #ForensicInvestigation #IAAICFI #NAFICFEI

#InsuranceClaims #ExpertWitness #ElectricalFireInvestigation #FireAnalysis #RemoteWork #LitigationWork #JoinOurTeam

As required by law, Sedgwick provides a reasonable range of compensation for roles that may be hired in jurisdictions requiring pay transparency in job postings. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide range of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, and cost of specific location. For the jurisdiction noted in this job posting only, the range of starting pay for this role is $75,000- $ 90,000. A comprehensive benefits package is offered including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, 401k and matching, PTO, disability and life insurance, employee assistance, flexible spending or health savings account, and other additional voluntary benefits.Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Diego Fair Chance Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act, and all other applicable laws.The statements contained in this document are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a colleague assigned to this description. They are not intended to constitute a comprehensive list of functions, duties, or local variances. Management retains the discretion to add or to change the duties of the position at any time.

The statements contained in this document are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a colleague assigned to this description. They are not intended to constitute a comprehensive list of functions, duties, or local variances. Management retains the discretion to add or to change the duties of the position at any time.

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Diego Fair Chance Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, the California Fair Chance Act, and all other applicable laws.

Sedgwickis an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace

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