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Fire Investigator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Avalon Fire Protection

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Fire Sprinkler Inspector

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Fire Sprinkler Inspection & Repair Technician Avalon Fire Protection Avalon Fire Protection, a leader in the life safety industry, is seeking a skilled and motivated Fire Sprinkler Inspection ...

Fire Safety First

Fire Sprinkler Repair Foreman

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Fire Sprinkler Repair Foreman Join the Fire Safety First Team! FSF has been successful in serving SoCal's fire protection needs for nearly 50 years. Since then, we have grown into a dynamic team of ...

Fire Safety First

Fire Sprinkler Repair Foreman

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Fire Sprinkler Repair Foreman Join the Fire Safety First Team! FSF has been successful in serving SoCal's fire protection needs for nearly 50 years. Since then, we have grown into a dynamic team of ...

Guardian Fire Services

Fire Sprinkler Repair Foreman

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Fire Sprinkler Repair Foreman Join the Fire Safety First Team! FSF has been successful in serving SoCal's fire protection needs for nearly 50 years. Since then, we have grown into a dynamic team of ...

Jensen Hughes

Fire Alarm Consultant/Designer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$102K - $149K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

... 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 ...

Efi global

Forensic Electrical Engineer, P.E.

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Efi global

Forensic Electrical Engineer, P.E.

Orange, CA · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Efi global

Senior Forensic Structural Engineer, P.E

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$105K - $142K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Aug 12, 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.

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.

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:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Fire Investigator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,327 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI and/or NAFI-CFEI)

Reliant Investigations, Inc.

Rancho Cucamonga, CA • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Job Title: Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI and/or NAFI-CFEI)

Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA (On-Site)

Job Type: Full Time

Salary: $60,000 - $80,000+ annually (depending on experience)


About Us: Reliant Investigations, Inc. is an industry leader in fire investigation services, committed to uncovering fire causes with integrity and professionalism. With over 20 years of industry experience, we collaborate with insurance companies to handle residential, commercial, marine, and vehicle claims. We provide thorough investigations and comprehensive analyses using forensic expertise and technology.


Job Description: We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Fire Investigator with the IAAI-CFI or NAFI-CFEI certification to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for conducting thorough investigations into fire incidents, determining origin and cause, preparing detailed reports, and providing expert testimony as needed.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct on-site fire investigations to determine origin and cause.
  • Collect and analyze evidence, interview witnesses, and document findings.
  • Prepare comprehensive investigation reports for use in legal and insurance cases.
  • Collaborate with law enforcement, insurance companies, and fire departments.
  • Provide expert testimony in court proceedings.
  • Stay current with industry regulations, fire codes, and investigative techniques.
  • Ensure compliance with NFPA 921 & 1033 and other relevant standards.


Qualifications & Requirements:

  • IAAI-CFI (Certified Fire Investigator) certification is preferred, but not required.
  • NAFI-CFEI (Certified Fire Explosion Investigator) is preferred, but not required.
  • Minimum 2 years of investigation experience.
  • Background in fire service, law enforcement, or related field preferred.
  • Strong understanding of NFPA 921 and 1033 standards.
  • Experience in evidence collection, photography, and report writing.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Willingness to travel as needed.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a background check.
  • A clean driving record is required.
  • 90-day probationary period must commence before you are eligible for benefits.


Benefits:

  • Competitive salary and performance incentives.
  • Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance with a generous premium contribution from the employer.
  • Human Interest 401(k) with up to 3% employer matching.
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Generous Paid Time Off.


How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications to bre@reliantinvestigations.net in addition to completing an application on LinkedIn or Indeed.

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