Fire & Rescue Investigator

Job Code: 32000967
Salary Grade: NC13
Revision Date: 03/2022

Class Concept

This is professional work in the Fire & Rescue division of the Department of Insurance where investigators respond to and assist with or determine the origin and cause of incidents involving fires (i.e., structures, vehicle, brush), explosions, hazardous materials, civil disorders, special hazards posed by utilities and hazardous conditions, as well as assist with developing, managing, and presenting training and various programs based on the needs of local fire and rescue jurisdictions. Positions will provide guidance, expertise and specialize in one or all the following areas:

Will respond to incidents involving fires (i.e., structures, vehicle, brush), explosions, hazardous materials, civil disorders, special hazards posed by utilities and hazardous conditions across the state to provide support and investigative assistance upon request to local jurisdictions in determining origin, cause, and the circumstances of the incident. OSFM's priority will be supporting jurisdictions with the cause and origin of fires resulting in fatalities, large dollar loss fires and or explosions. Fire investigators will also work closely with other local, state, and federal agencies, as well as be required to testify in a court of law involving criminal or civil cases relating to their investigations.

Fire Investigators will be able to conduct interviews, analyze insurance and business records and write reports. Employees must be able to present case findings to prosecutorial authorities and testify before grand and petit juries. Investigators will be expected to use the data collected during their investigation to assist in preventing fires from occurring, as well as planning, developing, and presenting material related to fire prevention efforts.

They will assist in the planning and conducting of firefighting, prevention and Investigation training sessions, and seminars and across NC. Work can involve developing, managing, and presenting programs based upon the needs of the requesting jurisdiction. Positions ensure content is up to date and use a variety of methods (for example, web-based training) to deliver needed content most effectively. Positions may work with all areas of the Office of State Fire Marshal to study programs and procedures and develop interactive, web-based programs where feasible. Additionally, fire investigators will assist in training and other programs for agencies involved in fire investigations. In the event of a natural disaster the position will serve as a member of the NC SERT (State Emergency Response Team). Work is performed under the general direction of a supervisor. Work may also include other duties assigned by management.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the techniques, practices, and use of modern technology in conducting and Origin and Cause Investigation.
• Working knowledge of the local, state, and federal laws and NC General Statues relevant to Fire Investigations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, local volunteer fire/rescue squads, municipal fire departments, professional organizations, Law Enforcement agencies, and the public.
• Ability to react under hazardous conditions created by practical demonstrations of fire and rescue training procedures.
• Basic knowledge of scheduling, preparing and / or delivering educational sessions related to fire investigations and / or prevention methods.

Minimum Education and Experience

Associate degree in fire science or criminal justice or related field from an appropriately accredited institution and five (5) years of progressive experience conducting and training in fire investigations; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Special Requirements

Must possess NC or IAAI Certified Fire Investigator or IAAI FIT certification. (IAAI = International Association of Arson Investigators)