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Fire Watch Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

MILLS MARINE & SHIP REPAIR LLC

Firewatch

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Fire Watch Job Type: Full-time Reports to: Firewatch contract supervisor Location: Newport News, VA (Huntington Ingalls Shipyard) and NOB Norfolk Naval Base Mills Marine A growing ship repair company ...

MILLS MARINE & SHIP REPAIR LLC

Firewatch

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Fire Watch Job Type: Full-time Reports to: Firewatch contract supervisor Location: Newport News, VA (Huntington Ingalls Shipyard) and NOB Norfolk Naval Base Mills Marine A growing ship repair company ...

Titan Talent Development, LLC

Helper/Laborer

Norfolk, VA

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

If a fire occurs, they take appropriate actions to protect all workers. · Have a clear view of and immediate access to all areas included in the fire watch. · Be able to communicate with workers ...

Tidewater Staffing

Be Seen First

Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Perform Fire Preventer and Fire Watch duties during welding, cutting, grinding, and other hot work operations. * Assist skilled trades personnel with shipboard and industrial work. * Move materials ...

Tidewater Staffing

Be Seen First

Secret Clearance Shipyard Workers

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Perform Fire Preventer and Fire Watch duties during welding, cutting, grinding, and other hot work operations. * Assist skilled trades personnel with shipboard and industrial work. * Move materials ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFire Watch JobsFire Watch Jobs in Virginia

Fire Watch information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$75.4K

$115K

How much do fire watch jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire watch in Virginia is $75,382.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $91,700.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Fire Watch jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Watch jobs in Virginia? For Fire Watch jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Watch jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Watch jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Fire Watch jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Fire Watch job openings:
Fire Watch jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Watch job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,382 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Fire Watch/Tank Watch Laborers (Active Secret Clearance Required)

Global, a 1st Flagship Company

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$23.62 - $24.62/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Here at Global - a 1st Flagship Company (www.globalfirstflagship.com), a woman-owned small business, we are committed to Individual Accountability, Growth, Integrity, and Respect. As a leader in Marine Support Services and Emergency Management, we have proudly supported the Department of the Navy since 1964, managing, operating, and maintaining the U.S. Navy fleet in locations such as Norfolk, Philadelphia, Bremerton, California, and Hawaii.

We are currently seeking skilled candidates for Fire Watch/Tank Watch Laborers for potential projects in Norfolk, VA. This opportunity involves hands-on labor working at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, offering a dynamic and fast-paced environment for experienced professionals.

Note: This position is contingent upon contract award. Employment will begin only if and when the company secures the government contract associated with this role.

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Actively patrolling shipyard work areas, particularly where hot work activities (welding, griding, cutting, etc.) are taking place, to identify and mitigate fire hazards.
  • Maintaining continuous vigilance to monitor and report unsafe conditions.
  • Ensuring fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, is readily available and in good working order.
  • Identifying and immediately reporting hazards or unsafe practices that could lead to fire incidents.
  • Responding promptly to fire alarms and fire-related emergencies.
  • Accurately recording and communicating any incidents or concerns to supervisors.
  • Complying with OSHA regulations and all applicable safety protocols.
  • Maintaining accountability for all company- and government-issued equipment.
  • Communicating effectively with team members and supervisors to foster a safety-first environment.

Qualifications:

  • Strong attention to detail and hazard awareness.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and patrol for up to 8 hours at a time including walking, climbing stairs, bending, stooping, reaching, standing, and prolonged periods of sitting.
  • Willingness and ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to remain calm and respond effectively in emergency situations.
  • Prior experience in a shipyard, industrial, or military environment is preferred.
  • US Citizenship and an Active DoD Secret Security Clearance required.

Global- a 1st Flagship Company is an E-Verify and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with disability.

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