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Intern Fire Inspector Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Shop Service Intern

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Perform preventative maintenance and inspections on heavy equipment What It Takes : * 18 Years of ... We design and manufacture advanced specialty vehicles-including fire, ambulance, and recreational ...

Intern Fire Inspector information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$9

$25

$44

How much do intern fire inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern fire inspector in Federal Way, WA is $25.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $30.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to be a fire inspector?

Being an intern fire inspector involves learning fire codes, safety protocols, and inspection procedures, which can require attention to detail and technical knowledge. The role often includes on-the-job training and may require certifications, but the difficulty varies based on individual skills and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Intern Fire Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intern Fire Inspector, you generally need a basic understanding of fire safety codes, building construction, and investigative procedures, often supported by coursework in fire science or related fields. Familiarity with inspection reporting software, digital documentation tools, and sometimes CPR or first aid certification is beneficial. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and a willingness to learn from senior inspectors help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for accurately identifying fire hazards, ensuring compliance, and effectively supporting public safety initiatives.

Do firefighter interns get paid?

Firefighter interns are often paid positions, especially if they are part of a formal internship or training program, which may include a stipend or hourly wage. Compensation varies by department and program, and some internships may be unpaid or offer only training experience. It is important to check specific department policies for accurate information.

Can you become a fire inspector without being a firefighter?

Fire inspectors can often qualify without being firefighters, as the role primarily involves code enforcement, safety inspections, and knowledge of fire prevention standards. However, many employers prefer candidates with firefighting experience or related certifications, such as fire science or building inspection training. Licensing or certification requirements vary by jurisdiction but generally do not mandate prior firefighting service.

What does an Intern Fire Inspector do?

An Intern Fire Inspector assists experienced fire inspectors by learning to examine buildings for fire hazards and compliance with fire codes and regulations. They may help conduct inspections, prepare reports, and observe how fire safety systems like alarms and sprinklers are evaluated. The internship provides hands-on experience with fire prevention practices, report writing, and working with building owners or managers to ensure safety. This role is often a stepping stone to becoming a certified fire inspector.

Are fire inspector jobs in demand?

Fire inspector jobs are generally in demand due to ongoing safety regulations and the need for fire prevention in various settings. Employment opportunities often depend on local government budgets, building codes, and the requirement for certifications such as NICET or state licensing. The role offers stable employment prospects in public safety and fire prevention fields.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an Intern Fire Inspector expect during their internship?

As an Intern Fire Inspector, you will typically support certified inspectors by assisting with on-site fire safety inspections, reviewing building plans for code compliance, and helping to prepare reports and documentation. You may also participate in educational outreach or learn to evaluate fire protection systems alongside experienced staff. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to fire codes, inspection procedures, and collaboration with property owners or local fire departments, laying a strong foundation for a future career in fire prevention.

What is the difference between Intern Fire Inspector vs Fire Inspector?

AspectIntern Fire InspectorFire Inspector
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge, often in training or pursuing certificationsCertified fire inspector with relevant licenses and experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised, entry-level inspections, learning on the jobIndependent inspections, enforcement, and reporting
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, training programsMunicipalities, private sector, fire safety agencies

The Intern Fire Inspector role is an entry-level position focused on learning fire inspection procedures under supervision. In contrast, a Fire Inspector is a fully qualified professional responsible for conducting inspections, enforcing fire codes, and ensuring safety compliance. The internship provides foundational experience, while the Fire Inspector role requires certification and independent work.

What job categories do people searching Intern Fire Inspector jobs in Federal Way, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Intern Fire Inspector jobs in Federal Way, WA are:

Building Inspector / Plans Reviewer

City of Gig Harbor, WA

Gig Harbor, WA โ€ข On-site

$41.99 - $52.53/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Salary: $41.99 - $52.53/hour
Benefits
Position Closes: July 5th
POSITION OVERVIEW
The building inspector/plans reviewer is responsible for plan review and inspection of construction projects and enforcement of construction codes adopted as Chapter 15 of the Gig Harbor Municipal Code.
The incumbent assures that plans and projects comply with the city's codes and ordinances for building, fire, plumbing, mechanical, energy, ventilation, and indoor air quality.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The job duties and responsibilities represented in this job description do not imply that these are the only duties to be performed. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to undertake other projects consistent with the role as requested by a supervisor.
  • Consults with the public, designers, developers, and others from the construction industry about code requirements before, during and after the construction process.
  • Reviews plans, specifications, calculations, and other documents for compliance with code requirements.
  • Inspects work to verify compliance with adopted codes, approved plans, and specifications.
  • Performs field inspections of construction work to verify compliance with code requirements, approved plans, and specifications.
  • Investigates work being conducted without an approved permit and issues stop work orders for such work when appropriate.
  • Prepares clear, concise requests for additional information, correction reports, and inspection notes on projects under review and construction.
  • Maintains accurate reports and records of plan review and inspection activities.
  • May support in leading part-time, temporary, or intern personnel within the division.
  • Maintains punctual and reliable attendance.

KEY COMPETENCIES
Knowledge of:
  • All aspects of building construction materials and methods.
  • Building, fire, plumbing, mechanical & energy codes.
  • The legal aspects of code enforcement.

Ability to:
  • Communicate effectively with other employees and the public, individually and in groups, verbally in-person and by phone, and in writing.
  • Work with others to ensure effective collaboration, communication, public relations, and diplomacy.
  • Work in a manner that ensures balanced application of confidentiality and transparency, organization of work, consistency with decision-making methodology, application of sound problem-solving technique, follow-through, and completion of work.
  • Follow-through on assignments in a timely, effective, and efficient manner.
  • Effectively use oral and written communication to convey information to the public and to prepare technical papers and reports for city staff, administration, and council use.
  • Use a computer for preparing documents, keeping records, data entry, e-mail communication, and accessing information from the internet.
  • Create and maintain an effective working relationship with the public, development community, city employees and officials and other allied agency personnel.
  • Perform effectively in high stress, emergency, and time critical situations.
  • Identify and execute improvement opportunities.
  • Read and interpret construction plans, specifications, and calculations related to building, plumbing, mechanical, energy, and ventilation systems and relate them to actual site conditions.
  • Read and interpret code provisions and their intent in a rational and consistent manner.
  • Wear protective clothing and equipment such as a hardhat, rain and snow gear, boots, goggles, gloves, knee pads, respiratory and ear protection as needed.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
Work is primarily performed outdoors involving occasional inclement weather and normal transportation and construction activity as well as occasional emergency scene operations. This may include high noise levels, moving vehicles and heavy machinery, dust, and mud, and traversing exposed and sometimes insecure walkways and platforms, unstable and damaged structures and hazardous environments are additional possible exposures. Work may be performed in a climate-controlled office or conference room setting with a moderate/minimal noise level. May be exposed to angry customers.
Schedule: Typical business hours are Monday-Friday from 8am-5pm with a one-hour meal break. Alternative work arrangements may be available as decided by the building official/fire marshalfollowing the probationary period.
Driving and Travel: Driving would typically require 20 or more hours a workweek. Local travel more than 50% of the time, including to visit other work sites in the area and to attend meetings, trainings, and/or conferences. Overnight travel is possible a few times per year, typically for annual conferences that relate to the position.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Any combination of education, training and experience that indicates the individual can successfully perform the job may be considered.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Two (2) years of increasingly responsible work experience in construction plan review and/or inspection of construction projects.
  • Experience with construction software, such as Bluebeam preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES
The following certifications and licenses are required for the position (or must be obtained within the timeframe stated) and must be maintained for the duration of employment.
  • International Code Council (ICC) certification as a building plans examiner or building inspector; one certification required upon hire, with both the building plans examiner and building inspector certifications required within one year of hire.
  • A valid Washington State driver's license (or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire) and at least two years of driving experience.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The physical attributes described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
The employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time, use hands for keyboarding, talk, hear, read, stand, and walk. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
Work requires occasional physical exertion to balance, climb ladders, walk over rough surfaces with loose materials, squat, bend, stoop, crawl, reach. Occasionally must lift, push, pull, and carry objects weighing up to 10 pounds and infrequently up to 30 pounds. Position requires average physical agility and manual dexterity.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • A history of and ability to maintain safe and responsible driving that meets the city's motor vehicle record minimum driving requirements.
  • Ability to pass position relevant pre-employment screening.

The requirements outlined in this job description may be modified to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities who are otherwise qualified for employment.
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the position change.
Salary Description
$41.99 - $52.53/hour