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Fire Safety Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Fire Protection Engineer

Naperville, IL ยท Remote

$85K - $114K/yr

Collaborate with project teams to incorporate fire safety considerations into building plans. * Conduct site inspections and assessments of existing fire protection systems. * Prepare technical ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Naperville, IL ยท Remote

$85K - $114K/yr

Collaborate with project teams to incorporate fire safety considerations into building plans. * Conduct site inspections and assessments of existing fire protection systems. * Prepare technical ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Naperville, IL ยท Remote

$85K - $114K/yr

Collaborate with project teams to incorporate fire safety considerations into building plans. * Conduct site inspections and assessments of existing fire protection systems. * Prepare technical ...

Fire Protection Engineer

Naperville, IL ยท Remote

$85K - $114K/yr

Collaborate with project teams to incorporate fire safety considerations into building plans. * Conduct site inspections and assessments of existing fire protection systems. * Prepare technical ...

Fire Alarm Inspector

Hoffman Estates, IL ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

This is a customer-facing role, one that is responsible for maximizing customer satisfaction, safety, and quality assurance on all assigned projects. As a Fire Alarm Inspector, you will be part of a ...

Showing results 21-40

Fire Safety Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$57.5K

$88.1K

How much do fire safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire safety inspector in Chicago, IL is $57,496.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $62,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire safety inspector?

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 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.

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 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 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.

Are fire safety inspector jobs in demand?

Fire safety inspector jobs are in demand due to ongoing safety regulations and building code enforcement. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as fire prevention remains a priority in various industries and public safety sectors, often requiring certifications and knowledge of fire codes.

How long does it take to be a fire safety inspector?

Becoming a fire safety inspector typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification programs that can last from a few weeks to several months. Many inspectors also gain experience through fire service or related roles before obtaining certification, which is often required for employment in this field.

Is becoming a fire safety inspector hard?

Becoming a fire safety inspector requires completing relevant training, obtaining certifications such as the Fire Inspector certification, and gaining experience in fire prevention or emergency services. The job involves understanding fire codes, conducting inspections, and sometimes working irregular hours, but it is generally accessible with proper education and training.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Safety Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Fire Safety Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fire Safety Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Safety Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Fire Safety Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,496 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Fire/ Life Safety Specialist

Chicago Housing Authority

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description


POSITION SUMMARY
The Fire/Life Safety Specialist reports to the Fire Life Safety Marshall and is responsible for completion of
re-inspections, documentation, and reporting in regard to Fire Life Safety compliance throughout CHA. Participate and coordinate life safety training and drills, inspection follow- up and work with stakeholders in ensuring safe environments.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Complete and maintain reports and property tracking to ensure compliance and proper reporting of deficiencies.
  • Meet with Property Management companies to share information and confirm deficiencies found.
  • Complete property tours to inspect and report conditions of exit lighting and signage, fire extinguishers, fire panel condition, smoke detection, scheduled spot checks of units, record keeping on fire/ life safety complaints and remediation, condition of fire doors, training, and capability to respond of on-site Security personnel, and any other items within the scope of Fire/Life Safety.
  • Conducts training, debriefings, and participates in live exercises related to fire and smoke incidents, including fire and evacuation drills.
  • Reports to the scene of various safety situations.
  • Work with Property Management and Security vendors on training to ensure that all vendors are prepared and aware of what to do in emergencies.
  • Assist in training and implementation of any new resources, protocols, and procedures.
  • Assist in conducting meetings, townhalls, tabletops, drills, etc...., to develop efficient emergency response.
  • Respond to, and appropriately, handle emergency situations that may arise in a calm, professional and effective manner.
  • Develop knowledge of the facilities and services of the surrounding community.
  • Handle complaints in a helpful, kind, and courteous manner. Resolve the situations you can and calmly find assistance for those issues you cannot resolve.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
  • May be required to work various extended or irregular hours (including afternoons, nights, or weekend shifts) to respond to CHA safety related issues or emergencies.
  • Must be available to respond to calls or email inquiries outside regular work hours.

QUALIFICATIONS
This position requires a High School Diploma or GED. College level coursework in Fire Sciences/Security/Risk Management is helpful. 2-3 years previous related experience preferred in fire life safety, building fire life safety protection and risk management. Must be physically able to walk the buildings as needed including ascending and descending stairwells. Must possess strong communication skills with a temperament and ability to interact with individuals from various socio-economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds, in person and over the telephone, in a courteous, friendly and professional manner. Ability to act quickly and decisively in emergencies. Ability to collaborate with others. Must be a self-starter and a problem-solver. Familiarity with Microsoft Office (e.g. Word, Excel, Outlook) is mandatory.
Must possess a good driving record. This position will require working indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. The Safety and Security Department is a 24/7 service provider. Hours can change to reflect business demand, missions, or special projects.
Must complete Chicago Fire Department Fire Safety Director training within 6 months of appointment.
BENEFITS AT-A-GLANCE
โ€ข Vacation, Sick and Personal, competitive PTO package
โ€ข Medical (HMO, PPO, and No employee cost High-Deductible PPO) Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
โ€ข Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
โ€ข Long-Term Care Insurance
โ€ข Pet Insurance
โ€ข Parking Transit
โ€ข Prepaid Legal Services
โ€ข Brightstar 529 College Savings Plan
โ€ข Identity Theft Protection
โ€ข Hospital Indemnity Insurance
โ€ข Voluntary Critical Illness Insurance
โ€ข Deferred Compensation Plan: Empower 457/401(a) with a 3% employer match
โ€ข Pension Plan: CHA makes contributions on behalf of the employee, along with the employee's 3% contribution; 100% vesting occurs after 6 years of continuous employment or opt-out of CHA's Retirement Plan and continues to participate in the Municipal Employees Annuity and Benefit Fund of Chicago
โ€ข Hybrid work schedule (position specific) This position may be eligible for remote work following a successful completion of a 90-day probationary period according to CHA's established policies and procedures.
"Applications will be accepted for 30 days from the date of posting. However, the position may be closed at any point if a sufficient number of qualified applications are received."
Salary: $80,000 - $85,000
Grade: S7
FLSA: Exempt
Union: None