Fire/Arson Investigator

Harris County•Houston, TX

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

A Fire Investigator is certified to investigate the origin and cause of fires or explosions that threaten life, property, or the environment. The Fire Investigator reports to a supervisor and any management member and may work from either office or field location, depending on the work assignment. The incumbent has a working knowledge of recognized standards for fire investigations, fire inspections, fireworks, and fire and life safety hazards, including LGC. 352.016.

Requirements

High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent from an accredited educational program.
Possess a valid driver’s license, State of Texas Class C Texas.
Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Basic Peace Officer (or higher).
Applicants for this position will be subject to a criminal background check that includes being fingerprinted.
Convictions, probation, or deferred adjudication for any Felony, and any Class A Misdemeanor.
Convictions, probation, or deferred adjudication for a Class B Misdemeanor, if within the previous 10 years.
Open arrest for any criminal offense. (Felony or Misdemeanor)
Family Violence conviction.

Nice To Haves

Associates or Bachelor's Degree.
Previous experience as a TCFP Fire/Arson Investigator.
Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP), Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and/or Master Arson Investigator.
IAAI Fire Fire Investigator Technician (FIT)
IAAI Certified Fire Investigator (CFI)
Within one (1) year of appointment, provide proof of completion for NIMS IS-700, IS-800, IS-100, IS-200, ICS-300, ICS-400.

Responsibilities

Conduct thorough investigations of fire scenes to determine the cause and origin of fires, focusing on suspected arson cases.
Properly investigate the origin and circumstances of assigned fires and explosions and determine whether the event resulted from design carelessness or natural causes based on nationally recognized standards.
Gather and preserve physical evidence, including photographs, samples, and witness statements, to support findings.
Perform administrative functions in accordance with policies and procedures, to include completing, reviewing and maintaining records and reports; and developing summary data reports, as required.
Provide expert testimony in court regarding findings and methodologies used in investigations.
Participate in training programs to enhance skills and maintain and/or pursue certifications in specific areas, such as project management, quality assurance, or technical specialties.
Perform as a member of an Incident Management Team during emergency or disaster situations.
Maintain situational awareness of all HCFMO activities.
Serve on committees, boards, or other teams as assigned by the Fire Marshal or designee.
Perform assigned tasks safely, and report initial accidents, injuries, or health exposures in accordance with accepted safety practices and HCFMO policy.