Fire Investigator

EFI Global•Charlotte, NC

About The Position

The Fire Investigator investigates fire events to determine their origin, cause, and responsibility in accordance with assignments from clients or assigned legal counsel. The role investigates losses and claims, identifies potential third-party responsibility and subrogation potential, and maintains required client reporting commitments in accordance with company procedures. It also promotes EFI services in the insurance industry and assigned territory and serves as a liaison between the insurance industry and law enforcement and fire service personnel. The investigator may handle losses or claims involving illegal, fraudulent, or subrogation aspects. The role includes identifying and interviewing witnesses and other involved persons, gathering information and evidence, and developing the knowledge needed to inspect public records. Investigations must be conducted legally and ethically, with up-to-date knowledge of relevant privacy laws and public-record availability. Travel is required as needed.

Requirements

At least three years of experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Certified Fire & Explosion Investigator (CFEI) certification is the minimum certification requirement for consideration.
Ability to obtain IAAI Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI) certification within six months of employment.
Good oral and written communication skills.
Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office products.
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Good analytical and interpretive skills.
Strong investigative skills.
Attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to work independently or in a team environment.
Ability to meet or exceed performance competencies.
Ability to stand and/or walk for long periods, kneel, squat, bend, climb, crawl, stoop, reach or work overhead, and work outdoors in hot or cold weather.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, push or pull up to 100 pounds, and drive up to four hours per day.
Hearing, vision, and talking abilities.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
IAAI Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI) certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Accept assignments from customers to investigate losses or claims and pursue each investigation according to the assignment’s specific needs.
Determine the origin and cause of losses or claims and identify potential third-party responsibility for subrogation.
Meet client reporting commitments in accordance with EFI’s standard procedures.
Promote and market EFI services in the insurance industry and within the assigned territory.
Serve as a liaison between the insurance industry and law enforcement and fire service personnel.
Investigate losses or claims involving illegal, fraudulent, or subrogation aspects as assigned by a client or the insurer’s attorney.
Identify and interview witnesses and involved persons who may have relevant information or evidence.
Develop the knowledge and expertise needed to inspect relevant public records, including land deeds, mortgages, liens, suits, judgments, and marriage and divorce records.
Stay up to date on laws concerning privacy rights and public-record availability, and conduct investigations legally and ethically.
Perform other duties as assigned and travel as required.