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Fire Investigators - 33-2021.02

O*NET-SOC Description

Conduct investigations to determine causes of fires and explosions.

Sample of Reported Job Titles

  • Fire Investigator
  • Fire Marshal
  • Arson Investigator
  • State Fire Marshal
  • Fire Lieutenant
  • Fire Chief
  • Fire Captain
  • Investigator
  • Chief Arson Division
  • Fire and Explosion Investigator

SOC Occupation Groups

Related Occupations

Tasks

  • Analyze evidence and other information to determine probable cause of fire or explosion.
  • Conduct internal investigation to determine negligence and violation of laws and regulations by fire department employees.
  • Coordinate efforts with other organizations such as law enforcement agencies.
  • Dust evidence or portions of fire scenes for latent fingerprints.
  • Examine fire sites and collect evidence such as glass, metal fragments, charred wood, and accelerant residue for use in determining the cause of a fire.
  • Instruct children about the dangers of fire.
  • Package collected pieces of evidence in securely closed containers such as bags, crates, or boxes, to protect them.
  • Photograph damage and evidence related to causes of fires or explosions to document investigation findings.
  • Prepare and maintain reports of investigation results, and records of convicted arsonists and arson suspects.
  • Subpoena and interview witnesses, property owners, and building occupants to obtain information and sworn testimony.
  • Swear out warrants, and arrest and process suspected arsonists.
  • Test sites and materials to establish facts, such as burn patterns and flash points of materials, using test equipment.
  • Testify in court cases involving fires, suspected arson, and false alarms.

Detailed Work Activities

  • analyze existing evidence or facts
  • analyze test data
  • apprehend or arrest suspect or perpetrator of criminal act
  • communicate technical information
  • compile evidence for court actions
  • compile information on findings from investigation of accidents
  • conduct fire hazard inspections
  • cooperate with court personnel or other law enforcement agencies
  • determine fire causes
  • determine negligence or violation of laws or regulations
  • estimate size or characteristics of fire
  • explain government laws or regulations
  • gather physical evidence
  • interview crime witnesses or victims to obtain descriptive information
  • investigate complaints, disturbances, or violations
  • maintain records, reports, or files
  • make decisions
  • make presentations
  • operate cameras
  • prepare reports
  • read maps
  • recognize public safety hazards
  • review facts to determine if criminal act or statue violation is involved
  • serve arrest, search or seizure warrants
  • serve or issue summonses or subpoenas
  • test materials or solutions
  • testify in court for accident and criminal cases
  • use arrest, search, or seizure legal statutes
  • use interviewing procedures
  • use knowledge of fire, building or other codes
  • use knowledge of investigation techniques
  • use knowledge of materials testing procedures
  • use oral or written communication techniques
  • use public speaking techniques

Military Crosswalk Titles

No information available.

Apprenticeship Crosswalk Titles

  • Arson and Bomb Investigator
  • Fire Marshall

DOT Crosswalk Titles

  • Arson And Bomb Investigator
  • Fire Marshal
  • Fire-Investigation Lieutenant