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Fire Watch Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Fire Alarm Inspector

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

$20.25 - $26.25/hr

Click the link below to watch a short video about S.A. Comunale. Job Summary About Us: S.A. Comunale has been a local industry leader for end-to-end mechanical, fire protection and HVAC services for ...

Fire Alarm Inspector

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

$20.25 - $26.25/hr

Click the link below to watch a short video about S.A. Comunale. Job Summary About Us: S.A. Comunale has been a local industry leader for end-to-end mechanical, fire protection and HVAC services for ...

Ironworker

Washington, DC · On-site

$26.25 - $34.50/hr

Duties may also include acting as a fire watch or confined space attendant where required. Ironworkers must be able to work at great heights. The work is very strenuous, dangerous, and is often done ...

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Fire Watch information

See Washington salary details

$35.1K

$86.1K

$131.4K

How much do fire watch jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire watch in Washington is $86,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $104,800.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Watch jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Fire Watch jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Fire Watch jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Fire Watch job openings:
Infographic showing various Fire Watch job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,117 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Fire Watch Specialist |Part-Time| Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena (UMBC)

Oak View Group

Baltimore, MD

$40/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Oak View Group rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 36 rated event venues


Job description

Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents. 


The Fire Watch Specialist position is a specialized safety role responsible for continuously monitoring fire alarm control panels and life safety systems. This position ensures immediate hazard detection, rapid emergency response, and building compliance during events, routine maintenance, and system malfunctions.

This role pays an hourly rate of $40.00

Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching.

This position will remain open until August 28, 2026.


Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena is located on the campus of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. The 5,000-seat arena is the home to the UMBC Retriever Men’s and Women’s basketball teams and Women’s volleyball. The multipurpose venue is managed by OVG and hosts a variety of events, including concerts, commencements, family shows, community events, consumer shows, featured speakers, and banquets.


  • System Monitoring: Continuously watch the fire alarm control panel (FACP) to identify active alarms, system troubles, or malfunctions.
  • Routine Patrols: Conduct scheduled patrols of the assigned facility or occupied areas (every 60 minutes) to check for smoke, heat, or hazards.
  • Emergency Response: Immediately contact Campus PD (55555) & 911, activate building alarms, and assist with safe evacuations if an emergency occurs.
  • Hazard Mitigation: Ensure all egress routes, exit doors, and stairwells remain free of obstructions.
  • Log Keeping: Pull 'history" reports from the fire panel, system checks, and incidents in a fire watch log when necessary.
  • Equipment Verification: Ensure fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and pull stations are operational and accessible.
  • Familiarization: Become familiar with the following documentation: Baltimore County Fire Department SOPs and running assignments, UMBC Campus Police SOPs, UMBC Campus Fire Marshal SOPs, and Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena Emergency SOPs.

  • Certifications: High School Diploma or GED; Firefighter Training (FFI MFRI) Emergency Medical First Responder Certificate.
  • 2-3+ years of previous experience in a Fire Watch position is preferred.
  • Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with fire alarm systems, annunciator panels, and basic fire suppression equipment.
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods, remaining alert and focused.
  • Situational Awareness: Strong attention to detail and the ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure.
  • Good communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Punctual and reliable attendance.

At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.


Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.


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