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Fire Safety Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Fire Prevention Specialist

Johnston, IA ยท On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Conducts inspections for health and safety permitting of occupancy, tent, liquor, and special event permits. * Coordinates administration of the fire inspection program with duty crews. * Develops ...

New

This position plays a critical role in protecting life, property, and community safety by responding to fire emergencies, providing lifesaving assistance, and supporting ongoing fire prevention ...

Fire Inspector

Ankeny, IA ยท On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Principal Duties and Responsibilities Conduct routine and complaint-based fire and life safety inspections of buildings and occupancies Enforce applicable fire codes, ordinances, and standards ...

Sewer

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

Basic English reading skills to understand work instructions and safety guidelines. * Capability to use basic tools such as scissors and calculators. * Reliable transportation to commute to the job ...

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Fire Safety information

See Iowa salary details

$16

$25

$40

How much do fire safety jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire safety in Iowa is $25.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is fire safety a good career?

Fire safety is a vital profession that involves preventing and responding to fires, often requiring certifications such as Firefighter or Fire Safety Officer. It offers opportunities in emergency response, risk assessment, and public education, with a focus on teamwork and physical fitness. The career can be rewarding but also demanding, with shift work and exposure to hazardous environments.

What is fire safety?

Fire safety refers to a set of practices and measures designed to prevent the outbreak of fire and protect people, property, and the environment from fire hazards. It involves understanding fire risks, implementing fire prevention strategies, and establishing emergency procedures such as evacuation plans and the use of fire extinguishers. Fire safety is important in homes, workplaces, and public spaces to reduce the risk of injury and damage caused by fire incidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire safety specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Safety Specialist, you need in-depth knowledge of fire codes, risk assessment, and emergency response procedures, typically supported by a degree in fire science or a related field and relevant certifications. Familiarity with fire detection and suppression systems, building safety codes, and inspection tools is essential. Strong communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills help effectively educate others and enforce regulations. These competencies are crucial for preventing fire hazards, ensuring compliance, and protecting lives and property.

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

Becoming a fire safety inspector typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification, which can take several months. Many inspectors also gain experience as firefighters or in related roles before qualifying for the position, with some states requiring additional licensing or certification that may take several weeks to months to obtain.

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

AspectFire SafetyFire Prevention Officer
CertificationsFire Safety Certification, OSHA, CPRFire Safety Certification, OSHA, CPR
Work EnvironmentBuildings, factories, public venuesInspection sites, offices, industrial areas
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, safety agencies, private companiesGovernment agencies, private firms, consulting
Primary FocusImplementing fire safety measures, emergency proceduresInspecting, enforcing fire codes, preventing fires

Fire Safety professionals focus on implementing safety measures and emergency protocols, while Fire Prevention Officers primarily inspect and enforce fire codes to prevent fires. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments but differ in their core responsibilities within fire safety management.

What are some common challenges faced by fire safety professionals when working across different types of facilities?

Fire safety professionals often encounter unique challenges depending on the type of facility they are safeguarding. For example, hospitals, manufacturing plants, and high-rise buildings each have specific fire codes, evacuation protocols, and risk factors. Adapting prevention strategies, conducting tailored training sessions, and ensuring compliance with local regulations require close collaboration with facility managers and other stakeholders. Staying updated on evolving codes and effectively communicating safety procedures across diverse teams are essential aspects of the role.
What are popular job titles related to Fire Safety jobs in Iowa? For Fire Safety jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Safety jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Safety jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Fire Safety job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,088 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Fire Prevention Specialist

City of Johnston

Johnston, IA โ€ข On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description:

Summary:


Under general supervision of the Fire Marshal, assists in the administration and discharge of all assigned fire prevention and community risk reduction duties for the Johnston-Grimes Metropolitan Fire Department. The principal functions of the Fire Protection Specialist are to ensure fire safety, prevention, fire code enforcement, and investigative procedures are completed in a professional manner and with an adherence to all relevant guidelines and laws. Work requires the exercise of initiative and independent judgment in routine and emergency situations. May respond to emergency incidents as directed.


Examples of Duties

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conducts inspections for health and safety permitting of occupancy, tent, liquor, and special event permits.
  • Coordinates administration of the fire inspection program with duty crews.
  • Develops commercial pre-plan diagrams.
  • Performs assigned fire investigation duties.
  • Assists Fire Marshal in plans review.
  • Performs assigned duties related to educate the public on fire safety/prevention by providing public service announcements, makes presentations, and answers questions/inquiries.
  • Attends meetings, conferences, workshops and training sessions and reviews publications and audio-visual materials to become and remain current on the principles, practices and new developments in assigned work areas.
  • Assists other departments, contracted city inspectors, engineers and architects as appropriate.
  • Aids in the preparation and application of grant funding.
  • Performs other duties as apparent or assigned.
  • Responds to citizens' questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner.
  • Will perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

  • Ability to work safely and efficiently with little direct supervision
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Sound judgment and decision-making abilities
  • Independent problem-solving ability
  • Ability to handle confidential information in a sensitive manner
  • Intermediate mathematical skills
  • Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with co-workers.
  • Knowledge of all applicable City and State ordinances and codes.
  • Knowledge of the International Fire Code and International Building Code.
  • Knowledge of fire protection systems.
  • Knowledge of the current principles and practices involved in fire investigations.
  • Ability to deal with a wide range of people, often in stressful or difficult situations.
  • Ability to supervise, train, coordinate and evaluate the work of others.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with others, both orally and in writing, using both technical and non-technical language.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and/or written policies, procedures and instructions.
  • Ability to interpret schematic drawings and conduct comprehensive plan reviews.
  • Ability to prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations

Working Conditions:

  • Frequent periods of sitting
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull greater than 150 pounds
  • Constant speaking, hearing, and judgment
  • Frequent writing and concentration
  • Intermittent periods of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, smelling, handling, feeling, dexterity, near and far sight acuity, depth perception, color vision, field of vision, concentration,
  • Moderate exposure to weather, extreme cold and/or heat, wet and/or humid conditions, noise intensity level, vibrations, darkness/poor lighting, moving mechanical parts/hazards, confined spaces, high, exposed places, dirt/dust, odors, toxic chemicals, and other environmental conditions.
  • Moderate use of protective eye wear, footwear, respiratory aid, hard hat, and gloves
Requirements:

Minimum Requirements:

  • Graduation from High School or GED equivalency
  • Possess and maintain a valid Iowa driver’s license
  • Minimum of 3 years of work experience in fire related service

Required Certifications:

  • Fire Inspector I
  • Iowa or National Firefighter I & Firefighter II certifications
  • Fire Investigator and/or Fire Investigation Technician (within 12 months of hire)
  • Fire Inspector II (Within 12 Months of hire)
  • Fire Plans Examiner (Within 18 Months of hire)