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Fire Safety Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Title: Fire Safety Specialist Fire Safety Specialist This role will be located at an OCONUS ... You excel at conducting inspections, performing maintenance, and implementing proactive measures to ...

Fire Inspector

Reston, VA · On-site

$23.90/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Fire Inspector is responsible for ensuring buildings and properties comply with fire safety laws and regulations to prevent fires and protect lives and property. PAY TRANSPARENCY ...

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Fire Safety Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$55.3K

$84.8K

How much do fire safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire safety inspector in Virginia is $55,334.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,600.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to be a fire inspector?

Becoming a fire safety inspector requires knowledge of fire codes, safety procedures, and inspection techniques, often gained through training and certification. The job can be physically demanding and requires attention to detail, but it is generally considered manageable with proper preparation and experience.

What are some common challenges Fire Safety Inspectors face when working with building owners and managers?

Fire Safety Inspectors often encounter challenges when building owners or managers are unfamiliar with current fire codes or hesitant to make necessary upgrades due to cost concerns. Effective communication and education are key for inspectors, as they must clearly explain the reasons behind code requirements and collaborate to find practical solutions. Navigating these situations professionally helps foster cooperation and ensures that fire safety standards are met to protect occupants and property.

What are Fire Safety Inspectors?

Fire Safety Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that buildings and properties comply with fire safety codes and regulations. They conduct inspections of structures, review building plans, and test fire prevention systems to identify potential hazards. Their work helps prevent fires and ensures safe evacuation routes in case of emergencies. Fire Safety Inspectors also educate building owners and occupants on fire prevention practices and may issue citations or recommend corrective actions when violations are found.

What is the difference between Fire Safety Inspector vs Fire Prevention Officer?

AspectFire Safety InspectorFire Prevention Officer
CertificationsFire safety certifications, OSHA trainingFire safety certifications, OSHA training
Work EnvironmentInspecting buildings, enforcing fire codesDeveloping fire prevention programs, public education
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal fire departments, private firmsGovernment agencies, fire departments
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for inspection rolesRelated to fire safety enforcement

Both Fire Safety Inspectors and Fire Prevention Officers focus on fire safety, but Fire Safety Inspectors primarily conduct building inspections and enforce fire codes, while Fire Prevention Officers develop prevention programs and educate the public. They often work together within fire departments or agencies to ensure community safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fire Safety Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Safety Inspector, you need a solid understanding of fire codes, building construction, and inspection procedures, typically supported by relevant certifications and training in fire science or a related field. Familiarity with inspection software, fire detection systems, and compliance documentation tools is essential. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help inspectors collaborate with building owners and enforce regulations. These skills ensure public safety and legal compliance by helping prevent fire hazards in various structures.

What is the role of a fire inspector?

A fire safety inspector evaluates buildings and facilities to ensure compliance with fire codes and safety regulations. They conduct inspections, identify hazards, and recommend corrective actions, often using tools like inspection checklists and fire detection equipment. Certification and knowledge of fire prevention standards are essential for this role.

Are fire inspector jobs in demand?

Fire safety inspector jobs are in demand due to ongoing safety regulations and the need for building inspections. Employment is expected to grow as communities prioritize fire prevention and safety compliance, often requiring certifications and knowledge of fire codes.

What Does a Fire Safety Inspector Do?

As a fire safety inspector, you ensure that buildings are in compliance with fire safety codes. Your responsibilities are to inspect each room in a structure, test existing fire protection equipment, and verify access to escape routes. Sprinkler and alarm systems are excellent examples of the equipment you test. You also keep an eye out for hazardous materials, making sure they remain in proper storage. Other duties include inspecting building plans, issuing safety grades, and closing down facilities when they do not meet safety requirements. This job is also known as a fire marshal or code inspector.

Can you become a fire inspector without being a firefighter?

Fire safety inspectors typically do not need to be firefighters, but they often have backgrounds in fire science, building codes, or related fields. Many inspectors hold certifications such as the Fire Inspector I or II, which do not require prior firefighting experience, though knowledge of fire prevention and safety protocols is essential.
What are popular job titles related to Fire Safety Inspector jobs in Virginia? For Fire Safety Inspector jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Safety Inspector jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Safety Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Safety Inspector jobs in VA? For Fire Safety Inspector jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Fire Safety Inspector job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,334 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Supervisory Fire Protection Inspector

United States Army Installation Management Command

Fort Myer, VA • On-site, Remote

$77K - $101K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Summary
This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: This position is included under the provisions of Special Retirement Coverage (SRC) and may have both a maximum entry age and a mandatory retirement date.
Click here for more information on SRC for Firefighters (Secondary)
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Conduct fire prevention inspections to assess and report deficiencies.
  • Examine building plans to evaluate special features impacting the fire protection mission.
  • Conduct presentations on fire safety and prevention topics for service members and civilians.
  • Ensure fire prevention programs comply with policies and guidelines.
  • Supervise and manage personnel in Fire Prevention Inspection duties.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • This position requires the completion of pre-employment and periodic subsequent medical examination in accordance with DoDM 6055.06 to ensure continued, required level of physical health and ability or fitness to perform the duties of the position.
  • The duties of this position meet the criteria for compliance with Federal and Department of the Army Drug Free Workplace Programs. Detection of the presence of drugs is warranted.
  • This position is subject to a pre-employment screening, and random testing thereafter, to include testing based on reasonable suspicion and testing due to direct involvement with an on-duty accident.
  • This position has been designated Mission Essential. In the event of severe weather conditions or other such emergency type situations the incumbent is required to report to work or remain at work as scheduled to support mission operations.
  • In accordance with AR 690-11, this position has been designated as "Key" and shall not be vacated during a national emergency or mobilization as doing so would seriously impair the capability of the organization to function effectively.
  • As a "Key" position, the incumbent must be exempted from recall to active duty and will receive training to ensure mission accomplishment of sustaining base operations during mobilization.
  • This position requires shift work to provide coverage on evenings, weekends, holidays, or special situations. Employee shifts are rotated on a regularly scheduled basis; 48-hour rotating shifts with a work schedule of 120 hours per pay period.
  • The duties of this position require the incumbent to possess or obtain and maintain a valid state Driver's License in one of the 50 U.S. states or possessions to operate vehicles.
  • This position has a Temporary Duty (TDY) or business travel requirement of 10% of the time.
  • Incumbent must maintain a functioning telephone at residence to aid in contact during recall situations
  • The incumbent must participate in the Directorate of Emergency Services (DES) Wellness Program to include: a. Structured Physical Exercise Program; b. Annual Physical Examination; c. Bi-Annual Physical Performance Evaluation.
  • This position requires the incumbent to receive a Hepatitis B vaccination or sign a waiver.
  • This position requires the incumbent to wear a uniform and other safety apparel in accordance with established policies and procedures.
  • his position requires the incumbent be able to obtain and maintain a determination of eligibility for a Secret security clearance or access for the duration of employment. A background investigation and credit check are required.
  • This position is supervisory as defined by the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) General Schedule Supervisory Guide (GSSG). A one year probation to assess your ability to perform supervisory duties is required unless previously completed.

Qualifications
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience Statement: One year of specialized experience which includes: 1) Expertise in fire protection and prevention codes and regulations. 2) Planning and implementing fire protection and prevention inspection activities and training programs. 3) Directing the work of a fire prevention branch in areas such as planning, evaluating, inspecting, investigating fires, and public education. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-09).
Selective Placement Factors: In addition to meeting the specialized experience requirement above, applicants must also possess the following certificates certified through DoD Fire and Emergency Services Certification System, International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), or the Fire Service Professional Qualifications System (PRO-Board) in accordance with DoD 6055.06-M upon entry into this position. (Note: You must attach a copy of your certifications for verification.)
  • Fire Officer III
  • Fire Inspector III
  • Fire Instructor II
  • Hazardous Material Incident Commander
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification (Must obtain within 12 months of employment)

Maximum Entry Age (MEA) The MEA for Firefighters is 37. An employee originally hired into a covered position must be hired by the last day of the month he/she reaches 37.
Maximum Reentry Age An employee who previously served on a covered position may be rehired past the MEA as long as he/she is able to complete 20 years of covered service by his/her mandatory retirement age. The maximum re-entry age for the individual is calculated by determining the total amount of time he/she has served on a covered position and subtracting that from age 57 if a firefighter. The employee's current age is compared to the calculated maximum re-entry age to determine if he/she can be rehired into the covered position.
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone no substitution of education for experience is permitted.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • This position requires a 1 year probationary period during which the agency evaluates your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In making this determination, the agency may consider your performance and conduct; agency needs and interests; whether your continued employment supports organizational or Government goals; and whether it promotes the efficiency of the Federal service. Continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest.
  • Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • This is a(n) Installations Career Field position.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • Permanent Change of Station (PCS) allowances may be authorized, subject to the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations and an agency determination that a PCS move is in the Government Interest.
  • Recruitment and relocation incentives may be authorized.
  • Student Loan Repayment may be authorized.
  • Salary Negotiations for those candidates who are new to Federal service may be authorized.
  • Credit for Prior Non-Federal Work Experience and Certain Military Service for Determining Annual Leave Accrual Rate may be authorized.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.