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Fire Watch Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Turner Construction

Laborer

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Perform fire watch duties and construct scaffolding as needed. * Manage dumpster vendor schedule and maintain dumpster areas for cleanliness and organization. * Perform as spotter for heavy equipment ...

State of Iowa

Correctional Officer

Coralville, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

... and fire watch for all buildings on grounds. This position is considered a weapons post. Transportation/Escort services - Transport inmates on grounds and off-grounds. Escorts incarcerated ...

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Fire Watch information

See Iowa salary details

$29.1K

$71.4K

$109K

How much do fire watch jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire watch in Iowa is $71,417.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,400.00 and $86,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are fire watch jobs still a thing?

Yes, fire watch jobs are still available and are often required in construction sites, industrial facilities, and during maintenance work to monitor for fire hazards. These roles typically involve standing watch, using fire detection tools, and may require certification in fire safety. They are usually temporary positions with specific safety protocols.

Are fire watch jobs hard to get?

Fire watch jobs are generally accessible but often require specific certifications such as OSHA training and a good understanding of safety protocols. Experience in construction or industrial environments can improve chances, but entry-level positions are also available for those willing to learn. Competition varies depending on location and demand for safety personnel.

What are the most common challenges faced by fire watch personnel on construction sites, and how can they be addressed?

Fire Watch personnel on construction sites often face challenges such as staying alert during long shifts, working in hazardous or changing environments, and effectively communicating with other site workers. To address these challenges, it's important to take scheduled breaks, use checklists to ensure thorough inspections, and participate in regular safety briefings. Building strong communication with the construction team helps ensure that any fire hazards are reported and resolved quickly, maintaining a safe work environment for everyone.

What is the difference between Fire Watch vs Fire Extinguisher Technician?

AspectFire WatchFire Extinguisher Technician
CertificationsOSHA, Fire Watch trainingFire Extinguisher, OSHA, possibly NFPA certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial areas, during hot workFire safety inspections, extinguisher maintenance, service centers
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, industrial facilitiesFire safety service companies, maintenance providers

Fire Watch and Fire Extinguisher Technician roles both involve fire safety but differ in focus. Fire Watch primarily monitors for fire hazards during construction or hot work, requiring OSHA and fire watch training. Fire Extinguisher Technicians inspect, maintain, and refill fire extinguishers, often needing NFPA certifications. While both roles serve fire safety, Fire Watch is more about supervision during specific activities, whereas Fire Extinguisher Technicians focus on equipment maintenance.

What is a fire watch?

The job of a fire watch professional is to monitor an area for a possible emergency. These roles are found anywhere there is a potential fire hazard, such as in welding or a shipyard, or in the absence of a sufficient emergency alert system. The job of a professional in welding is to monitor soldering or activities to ensure no smoldering fires break out. Other duties of someone in this role are to alert or notify emergency professionals if necessary, communicate with team members, and facilitate public or workplace safety. The qualifications you need to get a fire watch job vary, but specialized training may be required. Fire watch is subject to federal regulations through OSHA.

How do I get a job as a fire watch?

To get a fire watch job, candidates typically need to complete a fire watch training course and obtain any required certifications, such as a fire watch or fire safety permit. Employers often look for good observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in various environments, often on a temporary or contract basis. Prior experience in safety or security roles can also be beneficial.

What are the duties and responsibilities of a fire watch?

Fire Watch personnel are responsible for monitoring areas where hot work, such as welding or cutting, is being performed to prevent fires. Their main duties include identifying potential fire hazards, ensuring fire extinguishing equipment is available, maintaining a clear evacuation route, and sounding the alarm or taking action if a fire occurs. They must stay vigilant throughout their shift and cannot perform other tasks during their watch. Fire Watch is often required by safety regulations in environments with increased fire risk.

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

To thrive as a Fire Watch, you need a strong understanding of fire safety procedures, hazard identification, and often a valid occupational safety certification such as OSHA. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, alarm systems, and standard reporting tools is typically required. Attention to detail, vigilance, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure rapid response to fire hazards, maintain workplace safety, and prevent accidents in high-risk environments.
More about Fire Watch jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Watch jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Fire Watch jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Watch jobs in Iowa? For Fire Watch jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Watch jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Watch jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Fire Watch jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Fire Watch job openings:
Fire Watch jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Watch job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,417 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Laborer

Turner Construction

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Turner Construction rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 80 rated construction

Job description

Position Description:Perform tasks involving physical labor at construction projects jobsites.

Essential Duties & Key Responsibilities:

  • Review jobsite needs with Foreman and Superintendents to fully comprehend scopes of work per plans and specifications to complete job assignment.
  • Perform physical labor to assist with jobsite clean-up, rough carpentry, site logistics, fencing, deck and platform building, protection systems, construction waste areas, and additional job assignments as directed.
  • Inventory supplies and give supply orders to Foreman for re-stocking.
  • Ensure Trade employees, subcontractors, and vendors to comply with Turner standards, safety codes, regulations, and jobsite security.
  • Display high level of teamwork, integrity, commitment, and leadership in daily operations.
  • Fully understand work instructions, project signage, and safety instructions from tool and equipment manufacturers and prepare and inspect tools prior use to ensure safe and working condition.
  • Participate in daily Pre-Task Plans, follow safety expectations for operation of equipment and tools, select appropriate equipment for performing work, adhere to safety protocols to perform work, and wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protection Equipment).
  • Perform selected demolition.
  • Participate in activities of subcontractors and suppliers.
  • Review project perimeter for security and cleanliness daily, participate in end of day clean-up activities.
  • Perform fire watch duties and construct scaffolding as needed.
  • Manage dumpster vendor schedule and maintain dumpster areas for cleanliness and organization.
  • Perform as spotter for heavy equipment operators.
  • Ensure security of equipment and work area while conducting operations.
  • Identify, communicate, and escalate problems and issues to supervisor for immediate resolution.
  • Track production of completed tasks.
  • Assist other craft workers in their trades as directed.
  • Maintain positive working relationships with customers, contractors, suppliers and other employees.
  • Other activities, duties, and responsibilities as assigned.

What Turner Construction employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Turner Construction

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Turner Construction, headquartered in New York, NY, US, is a recognized leader in the construction industry. It was established in 1902 and has since curved its niche as one of the most reputable construction firms. Turner Construction provides a broad range of services like general contracting, construction management, design-build, and consulting. Devoted to environment-friendly building practices, it is considered a pioneer in green building and sustainability efforts. Their top-tier projects include Madison Square Garden, Yankee Stadium, and the United Nations Secretariat Building in New York City. The company's mission is to deliver an exceptional product by relentless commitment to their core principles – teamwork, integrity, commitment, and community.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1902

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