Job Description

Position Fire Investigator – Forensics & Investigations, Fire Department. Responsibilities Responds to fire incidents where arson is suspected, where a death has occurred, or where origin and cause cannot be readily determined; conducts comprehensive fire scene investigations, searches through debris, evaluates overall situation at the fire scenes to determine the fire’s origin and cause, interviews witnesses, suspects, and others, and takes photographs, collects physical evidence, and prepares drawings. Develops and maintains information on all fires investigated; works in cooperation with other officials to ensure case information is properly controlled and preserved; works with multiple outside agencies as needed. Works in tandem with Police Arson Detectives to conduct follow‑up investigations, interviews, and other related duties on cases determined to be arson to bring about a successful prosecution of the offender(s). Attends court hearings or trials when necessary to present evidence or testimony. Prepares standard and special reports; completes fire data reports, fire investigation reports, death or injury reports, evidence and laboratory reports; compiles special reports upon request. Performs related work as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Considerable knowledge of the causes of fires, the methods and procedures used in the investigation of fires, and the ability to distinguish between arson and accidental fires. Knowledge and ability to keep abreast of new developments in the field of fire investigation. Ability to conduct systematic and effective fire scene investigations, including but not limited to the identification of physical evidence and the interview of witnesses, suspects, and others. Ability to organize case materials and documentation. Ability to work with other agencies in conducting investigations and developing evidence. Ability to effectively communicate with others in conducting investigations and in public information activities. Ability to prepare and maintain standard and special records and reports. Physical Requirements Essential and marginal functions may require maintaining physical conditions necessary for sitting, standing, climbing, or walking for extended periods of time. Light to moderate lifting and carrying; some crouching, stooping, squatting, crawling, reaching, pushing, and pulling when performing tasks. Adequate vision, hearing, and speech required. Sensory Requirements Concentrated and attentive use of one or more senses (visual, audio, and other sensory modalities) for proofreading, data entry, and tabulating data. Ability to operate in an environment with frequent interruptions from people and/or noises, which can result in some level of stress, fatigue, or strain. Comprehensive written information in work-related documents. Ability to hear, understand, and distinguish speech. Working Conditions Work is performed in an indoor or outdoor environment with moderate exposure to atmospheric and environmental conditions and frequent exposure to computer screens, files, and phone. Minimum Qualifications Completion of a two‑year college curriculum with an associate degree in Fire Science Technology or related field preferred, or any equivalent combination of experience and training in fire origin and cause determination. Possession of the North Carolina Certified Fire Investigator (NC‑CFI) certification or ability to obtain certification within the first twelve months. North Carolina Class “C” Driver’s License. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science Technology or related field with 3 or more years of experience and training in fire origin and cause determination, and the International Association of Arson Investigators Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI‑CFI) certification. Conditions of Employment The City’s Background Check Policy requires background checks to be conducted on final internal or external candidates applying for any position with the City of Charlotte. The type of information that will be collected as part of a background check includes, but is not limited to, reference checks, social security verification, education verification, criminal conviction record check, and, if applicable, a credit history check, sex offender registry, and motor vehicle records check. Background checks must be in compliance with all federal and state statutes, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Final candidates must pass a pre‑employment drug‑screening test and a physical examination. Candidates may be asked to take a skills test and/or participate in other assessments. The City of Charlotte is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or on the basis of actual or perceived gender as expressed through dress, appearance, or behavior. Our culture is to serve the community honorably. Benefits The City of Charlotte provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The City of Charlotte is a drug‑and‑alcohol‑free workplace. Salary $31.96 – $39.95 per hour, commensurate with experience. #J-18808-Ljbffr City of Charlotte

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