Fire/Arson Investigator

Harris County (TX) • Houston, TX

46d • $44 - $46

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.
• At the date of hire, possess a valid license driver's license, State of Texas Class C Texas.
• Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Basic Peace Officer (or higher).
• 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

• Previous experience as a TCFP Fire/Arson Investigator OR
• Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP), Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and/or Master Arson Investigator.
• 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.

Benefits

• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Wellness Plan
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
• Ten (10) days of vacation leave per year (accrual rate increases after 5 years of service)
• Eleven (11) County-observed holidays
• One (1) floating holiday per year
• Paid Parental Leave
• Sick Leave
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• Professional learning & development opportunities
• Retirement pension (TCDRS defined benefit plan)
• Flexible work schedule
• METRO RideSponsor Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Construction of Buildings
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees