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Fire Inspectors

Employment Prospects

Employers

Approximately 17,300 fire inspectors and investigators are employed in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. About 76 percent of fire inspectors and investigators work for local government agencies (excluding education and hospitals). Forty-six percent of forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists worked for state agencies, while 44 percent were employed by local agencies. Some inspectors work at insurance companies and at other private sector employers.

Starting Out

Those just starting out in this field may need to gain experience as a professional firefighter before moving into the position of fire inspector. Job requirements vary by department. To become a firefighter, you must pass the local civil service exam, meet physical training requirements, and complete training at the department’s training center or academy. Those who have earned degrees, for example, in fire protection engineering, may find information on job openings through their schools’ career services centers. Jobs can also be found through organizations, such as the National Fire Protection Association.