Fire Investigator Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Fire investigators examining fire scenes and determining causes can secure visa sponsorship, though opportunities require specialized credentials. Most positions demand criminal justice or fire science degrees, fire service experience, and state certification. Federal agencies like ATF occasionally sponsor, while state and local departments typically don't. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsJoin Rimkus and unlock your potential with endless opportunities for growth, learning, and making a difference!
Rimkus is a worldwide leader in Engineering and Technical Consulting. Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute resolution, construction management services, and solutions built for the environment.
NOW IS THE TIME to join this growing and stable company! We offer our full-time employees a competitive salary, bonus opportunities and a full benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, disability, employer-matching 401(k), and opportunities for advancement!
The Salary Range for this position is $83,300 - $124,900 and is dependent on education, experience, location and certifications/licensure.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- 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.
REQUIRED SKILLS and ABILITIES:
- 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.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION and CERTIFICATIONS:
- 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.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS, OVERTIME, and TRAVEL:
Physical Demands - Work is performed both in an office setting and at outside locations (i.e. Client’s office, industrial, construction, and/or residential sites). Employee is frequently required to climb ladders, walk on roofs, and work in space-limited areas. Employee must wear a tight-fitting respirator during investigations. Employee may be required to shovel fire debris, move furniture and other household/commercial items and operate lifts as needed. Employee may lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Employee must be sharp, focused, and alert when conducting site inspections interacting with clients, preparing written reports of findings, and testifying in deposition or trial. Clear vision and depth perception are also necessary.
Overtime - Regular working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with one hour for lunch. There will be periods where overtime will be required, which the employee will need to comply with to meet the demands of the position.
Travel Requirements - This position requires up to 50% local travel. Some out-of-area and overnight travel may be required. Valid driver’s license and reliable form of transportation.
At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions.
Rimkus is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT FOR EMPLOYMENT OR A GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT.
Rimkus works with a limited number of approved recruiting partners. All agency submissions must be made through our designated submission process. Unsolicited resumes will not be recognized.
Join Rimkus and unlock your potential with endless opportunities for growth, learning, and making a difference!
Rimkus is a worldwide leader in Engineering and Technical Consulting. Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute resolution, construction management services, and solutions built for the environment.
NOW IS THE TIME to join this growing and stable company! We offer our full-time employees a competitive salary, bonus opportunities and a full benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, disability, employer-matching 401(k), and opportunities for advancement!
The Salary Range for this position is $83,300 - $124,900 and is dependent on education, experience, location and certifications/licensure.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- 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.
REQUIRED SKILLS and ABILITIES:
- 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.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION and CERTIFICATIONS:
- 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.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS, OVERTIME, and TRAVEL:
Physical Demands - Work is performed both in an office setting and at outside locations (i.e. Client’s office, industrial, construction, and/or residential sites). Employee is frequently required to climb ladders, walk on roofs, and work in space-limited areas. Employee must wear a tight-fitting respirator during investigations. Employee may be required to shovel fire debris, move furniture and other household/commercial items and operate lifts as needed. Employee may lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Employee must be sharp, focused, and alert when conducting site inspections interacting with clients, preparing written reports of findings, and testifying in deposition or trial. Clear vision and depth perception are also necessary.
Overtime - Regular working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with one hour for lunch. There will be periods where overtime will be required, which the employee will need to comply with to meet the demands of the position.
Travel Requirements - This position requires up to 50% local travel. Some out-of-area and overnight travel may be required. Valid driver’s license and reliable form of transportation.
At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions.
Rimkus is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT FOR EMPLOYMENT OR A GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT.
Rimkus works with a limited number of approved recruiting partners. All agency submissions must be made through our designated submission process. Unsolicited resumes will not be recognized.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in Fire Investigator
Target federal fire investigation roles
ATF, FBI, and other federal agencies hire fire investigators and can sponsor visas. These positions require extensive background checks but offer clearer sponsorship pathways than local fire departments.
Highlight specialized fire science credentials
Emphasize fire investigation certifications, arson investigation training, and evidence collection expertise. Specialized skills in electrical fire analysis or hazardous materials incidents strengthen sponsorship cases significantly.
Consider insurance industry positions
Major insurance companies hire fire investigators to assess claims and determine fire causes. These private sector roles may offer more visa sponsorship flexibility than government positions.
Build relevant law enforcement background
Fire investigation often requires law enforcement authority. Prior police experience, criminal justice education, or forensic training demonstrates capability to handle investigative responsibilities and court testimony requirements.
Obtain IAAI or NAFI certifications
International Association of Arson Investigators or National Association of Fire Investigators certifications prove specialized expertise. These credentials help distinguish candidates in competitive federal hiring processes.
Network through fire investigation conferences
Attend IAAI meetings, fire investigation training seminars, and forensic conferences. Building relationships with federal investigators and insurance professionals can lead to sponsorship opportunities.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
What degree do I need for fire investigator visa sponsorship?
Most sponsored fire investigator positions require a bachelor's degree in fire science, criminal justice, chemistry, or engineering. Some federal roles accept equivalent experience, but a degree directly related to fire investigation or forensic science strengthens H-1B specialty occupation requirements. Additional fire investigation certifications are typically required.
Which visa types work best for fire investigators?
H-1B visas work for fire investigators with specialized degrees and federal agency sponsors. E-3 visas suit Australians with fire science backgrounds. L-1B visas may apply for investigators with specialized fire analysis expertise transferring between international offices of large insurance companies or consulting firms.
Do fire investigators qualify as specialty occupations for H-1B?
Fire investigators can qualify for H-1B if the position requires specialized fire science, forensic engineering, or criminal justice knowledge that typically requires a bachelor's degree. Federal investigator roles focusing on complex arson cases or hazardous materials fires often meet specialty occupation standards.
Can local fire departments sponsor visas for investigators?
Most local fire departments cannot sponsor visas due to budget constraints and hiring restrictions. State and municipal agencies typically hire only citizens or permanent residents for fire investigation roles. Federal agencies and private insurance companies offer better sponsorship prospects.
What background check issues affect fire investigator sponsorship?
Fire investigators undergo extensive security clearances and background investigations, especially for federal positions. Any criminal history, financial issues, or foreign contacts can disqualify candidates. Immigration violations or gaps in legal status may prevent clearance approval even with valid visa sponsorship.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Fire Investigator jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
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