Fire Consultant

Rimkus

About The Position

Investigates, assesses, and determines the origin and cause of fires and explosions in residences, commercial/industrial buildings, vehicles, heavy equipment, marine equipment, and 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.

Requirements

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.
Must have a high level of analytical skills. Work requires continual attention to detail with the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
Must be able to interact and communicate with clients at all levels (e.g. internal and external).
Must have knowledge of a variety of computer software applications including but not limited to, 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 clearly and coherently, budget estimates, schedules, reports of findings, proposals, general correspondence, and other technical documents.
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.
Valid driver’s license and reliable form of transportation.

Nice To Haves

IAAI-CFI certification preferred.

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. This includes scene photography, interviewing witnesses and gathering information, taking possession of items, cause and origin determination, report preparation, and 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.