Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II
Not Disclosed•Full-TimeOn-site
location_onAlma Lane, Menlo Park, San Mateo County, California, 94025, United States
About the Role
This position serves as the entry point into the Fire Inspector/Investigator series, operating under the direct supervision of the Fire Marshal, Assistant Fire Marshal, or Deputy Fire Marshal. As an entry-level role, it is designed for individuals with little or no directly related experience who are eager to learn fire inspection, code enforcement, and basic fire investigation practices. The scope of duties is limited and performed in a training capacity, allowing incumbents to progress toward general supervision as their knowledge, skills, and proficiency increase.
Alternatively, the Fire Inspector/Investigator II level represents the journey-class within the series. Incumbents at this level perform the full range of fire inspection, code enforcement, and investigation duties with only occasional instruction. They work under general supervision to conduct complex inspections, independently interpret fire codes, and assist in technical or sensitive fire origin and cause investigations. Positions in this class are typically filled by advancement from the I level upon demonstrating required competencies and certifications.
Positions may be filled at either the I or II level. Advancement from Level I to Level II is contingent upon demonstrating proficiency in assigned duties, attaining required certifications (including Fire Inspector I and Fire Investigator 1A), maintaining a high quality of performance, and meeting the specific needs of the District.
Day in the Life
In this role, you will inspect residential, commercial, and industrial units to ensure compliance with safety laws and ordinances. You will assist in investigating the causes of fires, including those of undetermined or suspected incendiary origin, and examine building plans and construction sites to verify adherence to fire and life safety standards. Your duties will also involve observing fire drills in schools and hospitals, maintaining accurate records of safety codes and violations, and making presentations to civic organizations and school groups regarding fire prevention.
The work environment is dynamic and varied. While some duties are performed in an office setting with moderate noise levels, field work often requires exposure to extreme conditions. You may encounter loud noise from sirens, inclement weather, confined spaces, and hazardous materials such as smoke residue, chemicals, and fumes. The role demands physical mobility, including climbing ladders, crawling, and wearing protective clothing and breathing apparatus. On-call availability may be required to respond to fire investigations, emergency incidents, or other events, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Hiring Process
Candidates must possess a valid California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record. For the Fire Inspector/Investigator I level, completion of the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) First Responder Inspector series is required prior to the completion of probation, and the Fire Investigator 1A–1C series must be completed within three years of hire. For the II level, the OSFM First Responder Inspector certification is required, with the Fire Investigator and Plan Examiner series to be completed within two years of hire or promotion.
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Work location
Work model: On-site
Alma Lane, Menlo Park, San Mateo County, California, 94025, United States
Menlo Park, California
Key Responsibilities
- check_circleExamine building plans and construction sites to verify fire safety compliance
- check_circleObserve fire drills in schools and hospitals and provide feedback
- check_circleConduct presentations to civic organizations and school groups on fire prevention
- check_circleInvestigate complaints regarding hazards and violations of fire prevention regulations
- check_circleAssist with training programs related to fire prevention and safety
- check_circleInspect residential, commercial, and industrial units to enforce safety laws and ordinances
- check_circleMaintain accurate records of inspections, violations, and fire safety codes
- check_circleInvestigate fire causes, including suspected incendiary origins
Requirements
- verifiedHigh school diploma or equivalent
- verifiedValid California driver's license
- verifiedOSFM First Responder Inspector (Fire Inspector I) certification required for Level II
- verifiedOSFM Fire Investigator 1A–1C certification required within 3 years (Level I) or 2 years (Level II)
- verifiedOSFM Plan Examiner 1A, 1B, 1C classes required within 2 years (Level II)
- verified3 years fire inspection or investigation experience required for Level II
Nice to Have
Some experience in fire safety, building inspections, fire prevention, or inspection work involving fire prevention regulations. Experience conducting fire investigations and construction trades experience (e.g., fire sprinkler fitter/designer, fire alarm installer/designer). College-level coursework in fire science, fire prevention, or a related field (minimum 9 units). Completion of OSFM Plans Examiner 1A, 1B, and 1C classes or equivalent courses. Completion of OSFM Fire Inspector (formerly Fire Inspector 2) series or equivalent.
Similar Job Opportunities
Skills, education and keywords
Skills: Fire Inspection, Code Enforcement, Fire Investigation, Fire Prevention, Fire Codes, Building Codes, Inspection Techniques, Fire Alarm Systems, Fire Sprinkler Systems, Standpipe Systems.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's degree in fire science or related field highly preferred.
Frequently asked questions about Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II at Menlo Park Fire Protection District
What does a Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II at Menlo Park Fire Protection District do?expand_more
A Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II at Menlo Park Fire Protection District is responsible for the following: Examine building plans and construction sites to verify fire safety compliance; Observe fire drills in schools and hospitals and provide feedback; Conduct presentations to civic organizations and school groups on fire prevention; and Investigate complaints regarding hazards and violations of fire prevention regulations.
What are the requirements for this Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II role?expand_more
To qualify for the Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II at Menlo Park Fire Protection District position, applicants should have: High school diploma or equivalent; Valid California driver's license; OSFM First Responder Inspector (Fire Inspector I) certification required for Level II; OSFM Fire Investigator 1A–1C certification required within 3 years (Level I) or 2 years (Level II); OSFM Plan Examiner 1A, 1B, 1C classes required within 2 years (Level II); and 3 years fire inspection or investigation experience required for Level II.
Where is the Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II role at Menlo Park Fire Protection District located?expand_more
Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II at Menlo Park Fire Protection District is based in Alma Lane, Menlo Park, San Mateo County, California, 94025, United States. This is a on-site role.
Is this Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II job remote, hybrid, or on-site?expand_more
Menlo Park Fire Protection District has listed this Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II role as on-site.
How much experience is required for this Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II role?expand_more
Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II at Menlo Park Fire Protection District typically requires 3+ years of relevant experience at the mid level level.
What skills do you need for the Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II role at Menlo Park Fire Protection District?expand_more
Key skills for Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II at Menlo Park Fire Protection District include Fire Inspection; Code Enforcement; Fire Investigation; Fire Prevention; Fire Codes; Building Codes; Inspection Techniques; and Fire Alarm Systems.
What education is required for Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II at Menlo Park Fire Protection District?expand_more
Educational requirements for this role: High school diploma or equivalent required; and Associate's degree in fire science or related field highly preferred.
What category does the Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II role belong to?expand_more
Fire Inspector-Investigator I/II at Menlo Park Fire Protection District is part of the trade & construction job category on Recrutus.
About Menlo Park Fire Protection District
The Menlo Park Fire Protection District serves the public safety needs of Menlo Park, Atherton, East Palo Alto, parts of Stanford University, and unincorporated areas of Southern San Mateo County within the San Francisco Bay Area. Operating across a thirty-square-mile region near Stanford University, the district provides essential fire protection and emergency services to a community of approximately 93,000 residents. Headquartered in Menlo Park, CA, the organization manages seven strategically located stations designed to ensure efficient response times for the local population.
Annually, the district responds to roughly 8,500 emergencies, with emergency medical incidents accounting for about 60% of these calls. Governance is provided by a Fire Board that oversees fire protection operations, policy formulation, budget management, and staff-related matters. The district also functions as the hosting agency for California Task Force Three, an Urban Search and Rescue team operating under the Federal Emergency Management Agency. This specialized unit comprises 80 personnel, including 18 participating agencies and 60 civilians, and is prepared to respond to incidents throughout California and the United States.
Browse more roles: All Menlo Park Fire Protection District jobs, trade & construction jobs on Recrutus.