DFPC Fire Investigator (Western Slope)

State of Colorado•Denver, CO

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC) is seeking a Fire Investigator to conduct investigations into the origin and cause of structural, vehicle, and wildland fires. This role involves collecting, preserving, analyzing, and interpreting physical evidence, as well as writing reports and providing courtroom testimony. The investigator will also assist local fire authorities in identifying target hazards and developing fire prevention programs. Additionally, the position involves training and mentoring other investigators, both internally and externally, and serving as a liaison with professional fire and arson investigation organizations. This is a hybrid position requiring in-state and occasional out-of-state travel, with a willingness to be on-call 24/7 for investigations, some of which may be criminal in nature. Work environments may include areas affected by fire, potentially exposing the employee to carcinogenic substances.

Requirements

Certification by the National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI) as a Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator or by the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) as a Fire Investigation Technician.
Minimum of two (2) years of experience in fire origin and cause investigations.
Proven history of providing courtroom testimony.
Must be Colorado resident at the time of application.
Current valid driver's license at time of hire, and must obtain a Colorado-issued driver's license within 6 months of hire.
Requires successful completion of a background investigation that includes a polygraph exam, a fingerprint based criminal history search, driving history, and drug test.

Nice To Haves

Certification by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) as a Wildland Fire Investigator (INVF), or be able to attain certification within one year.

Responsibilities

Conducts complex fire origin and causes investigations relating to arson and other fire incidents.
Collects, identifies, and preserves evidence, following chain of custody procedures, and documents incident scenes, including taking and cataloging photographs and writing reports.
Analyzes and corroborates legal and agency documents and records in support of criminal investigations.
Coordinates affidavits, warrants, case filing, and subpoenas for presentation to district attorneys, grand juries, and trial courts.
Gives testimony in court and makes recommendations regarding prosecution to district attorneys and the Attorney General's office relating to criminal arson investigations.
Participates with local, state, and federal partners to create regional investigations teams throughout the state.
Works with local partners to assess and determine regional fire investigation training needs and develop programs to support those needs.
Serves as a liaison between the Division and professional fire and arson investigation organizations.
Acts as a preceptor and trains investigators in all aspects of unit assignments.
Conducts and facilitates training for investigators in both the field and office.
Provides ongoing advanced training for investigators based on available opportunities and individual expertise.
Assists with the development and revision of training tools, protocols, and curriculum.
Evaluates and assists investigators in the office and the field as required to assist with meeting workload requirements.
Mentors other DFPC employees in the field of fire investigations.

Benefits

Medical and dental options
Short and long-term disability coverage
Life insurance that includes legal resources and discounts
Basic Life and AD&D insurance equal to annual earnings (minimum $50,000, maximum $250,000) provided at no cost
State of Colorado's Wellness Program (State of Health) offering personalized health coaching, skill groups, and a $20/month health insurance premium discount for participants
Access to discounts, promotions, and special programs through BenefitHub
State contribution into a Health Savings Account when enrolled in a High Deductible Health Plan
Medical leave under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the State of Colorado Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program (FAMLI)
Eligibility for hybrid or other flexible work arrangements
PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan
Optional 401K and 457 plans
Generous time off including 11 paid holidays annually
Accrued annual and sick leave
Four annual wellness days
Employee Assistance Program (C-SEAP) providing short-term counseling, referrals, resources, and training
Tuition reimbursement
Reduced college tuition at CSU Global and DeVry University
Credit Union of Colorado membership eligibility