[Hiring] Fire Investigator @Rimkus

Role Description

Investigates, assesses, and determines the origin and cause of fires and explosions in various settings, including:

• Residences
• Commercial/industrial buildings
• Vehicles
• Heavy equipment
• Marine equipment
• Other property

Analyzes fire/explosion scenes, burn patterns, debris, mechanical components, and electrical systems/components to determine the origin and cause. Conducts fraud analyses for possible incendiary-related losses. Prepares detailed written reports of findings that illustrate the conclusions/opinions, observations, and analysis of the investigation. Works under general supervision, exercising initiative and independent judgment in the performance of assigned tasks.

The Salary Range for this position is $83,300 - $124,900 and is dependent on education, experience, location and certifications/licensure.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Determines the origin and cause of fires and explosions involving structures, equipment, vehicles, heavy equipment, agricultural equipment, and other losses.
• Assists in securing the fire/explosion scene to prevent removal or damage of potential evidence.
• Conducts on-site, hands-on forensic fire analysis, including:
  • Scene photography
  • Interviewing witnesses and gathering information
  • Taking possession of items
  • Cause and origin determination
  • Report preparation
  • Providing testimony in deposition and trial
• Searches for, identifies, collects, and labels any potential evidence/items from the fire scene, including devices used to set, start, or further the progress of fire; protects the chain of custody of potential evidence/items.
• Provides technical and scientific support to clients for subrogation and litigation purposes.
• Conducts code compliance research including electrical, gas, fire, building and installation code violations.
• Facilitates and helps present continuing education seminars on fire-related topics.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities

• High level of analytical skills with continual attention to detail.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact and communicate with clients at all levels.
• Knowledge of various computer software applications, including Microsoft Office Applications and computer-assisted engineering and design software.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical reports, journals, financial reports, and legal documents.
• Ability to write scopes of work, budget estimates, schedules, reports of findings, proposals, and other technical documents clearly and coherently.
• Ability to respond to inquiries from internal and external clients.
• Capable of effectively presenting information to top management, clients, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

Required Experience, Education and Certifications

• IAAI-CFI certification preferred.
• A minimum of NAFI-CFEI with the ability to obtain an IAAI-CFI within 18 months.
• 5+ years of related work experience in fire investigation or a related field.
• AAS in Fire Science, Fire Investigation, Forensic Science or related experience as a fire investigator, firefighter, or law enforcement officer/investigator.

Physical Demands, Overtime, and Travel

• Work is performed both in an office setting and at outside locations (i.e. Client’s office, industrial, construction, and/or residential sites).
• Employee is frequently required to climb ladders, walk on roofs, and work in space-limited areas.
• Employee must wear a tight-fitting respirator during investigations.
• Employee may be required to shovel fire debris, move furniture and other household/commercial items, and operate lifts as needed.
• Employee may lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Employee must be sharp, focused, and alert when conducting site inspections, interacting with clients, preparing written reports of findings, and testifying in deposition or trial.
• Clear vision and depth perception are also necessary.
• This position is classified as salaried with a non-exempt FLSA status, with potential overtime required.
• This position requires up to 50% local travel; some out-of-area and overnight travel may be required.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable form of transportation are necessary.