What factors affect the salary of an arson investigator?
As with most occupations, the salary for arson investigators can depend largely on experience, performance, location, organization, and specialization. The shifts that an investigator works can affect salaries as well.
What can I do with a degree in arson and fire investigation?
Arson and fire investigators with experience and a graduate degree, such as a master’s degree, may move into advanced positions such as supervisor. A small number of seasoned investigators also work as self-employed consultants.
How much does a fire investigator make a year?
Explore program formats, transfer requirements, financial aid packages, and more by contacting the schools below. The median annual salary for fire inspectors and investigators is $60,200 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 2 Salaries for fire investigators vary depending on education, experience, and the employing agency.
What does a fire specialist investigator do?
Fire investigators will frequently prepare evidence for court and testify as expert witnesses, working closely with the prosecution to build a case where there is suspicion of arson or insurance fraud. Overall, these specialist investigators will possess a strong working knowledge of fires, construction, and engineering.
What is the lowest and highest salary range an arson investigator should expect to make?
The lowest 10 percent earn $53,000, and the highest 10 percent earn $79,000 based on 49 salaries. In addition, some positions include bonuses of up to $3,000. These salaries vary based on years of experience and levels of education.
What does an arson investigator do?
Fire and arson investigators examine the physical attributes of a fire scene and identify and collect physical evidence from the scene. This evidence is then analyzed to help determine if the cause of the fire was accidental or deliberate.
What is an arson investigator called?
ATF Certified Fire Investigators (CFIs) are special agents with highly specialized training in investigating arson-related crimes. They rapidly deploy to fire scenes to identify, collect and analyze arson-related evidence, and act as the lead criminal investigator for field operations.
What skills do you need to be an arson investigator?
Fire/arson investigators must have natural ability, aptitude, and a desire to do the job. They must possess the ability to recognize physical evidence. They must be able to relate evidence to the sequence and interpretation of criminal action before the evidence is altered or collected in any manner.
Why is arson investigation difficult?
Arson is difficult to investigate for three main reasons: The arsonist can plan out the arson well in advance and bring all the tools needed to commit the act with him/her. The arsonist does not need to be present at the time of the act. The fire itself destroys evidence tying the arsonist to the crime.
How many years do you get for arson?
What is the punishment for arson? Sentencing varies depending on the type of arson and where the case is dealt with. Anyone convicted of arson where minor damage was caused will be given a fine and a community order. But if the arson is more significant or a person died, they could be sentenced to life in prison.
Do fire investigators fight fires?
An arson investigator will try to determine who is responsible for setting a fire; a fire investigator will attempt to determine the cause and origin of a fire.
Are arson investigators firefighters?
Most arson investigators start their careers as firefighters, and most employers prefer to hire candidates with firefighting experience. Though, candidates sometimes choose to pursue opportunities in law enforcement or emergency services, depending on the type of employment available in their area.
What makes a good fire investigator?
Detail oriented. Fire inspectors and investigators must notice details when inspecting a site for code violations or investigating the cause of a fire. Integrity. Inspectors must be consistent in the methods they use to enforce fire codes.
What problems do arson investigators face at a fire scene?
Evidence of arson is nearly impossible to preserve. Not only will the fire likely destroy physical proof but the water and chemical foam used to put out the blaze can also destroy potential evidence. Because of this, an arson investigator's most important witnesses are the firefighters that first arrive on the scene.
What are the common signs of arson?
Any burning, substantial smoke discoloration and damage, charring, the existence of alligator burn patterns, destruction and damage caused as the results of explosives, detonation devices, and ruination by substantial heat meets the arson criteria.
What is the first thing a fire investigator looks for when investigating a suspicious fire?
Trained arson investigators use a number of clues to investigate a fire, and are usually the first on the scene so that they can collect forensic evidence to examine from the site while it is still fresh. The first thing that they pinpoint is where the fire originated, because this is often a vital clue.
Are arson investigators firefighters?
Most arson investigators start their careers as firefighters, and most employers prefer to hire candidates with firefighting experience. Though, candidates sometimes choose to pursue opportunities in law enforcement or emergency services, depending on the type of employment available in their area.
What is the first thing a fire investigator looks for when investigating a suspicious fire?
Trained arson investigators use a number of clues to investigate a fire, and are usually the first on the scene so that they can collect forensic evidence to examine from the site while it is still fresh. The first thing that they pinpoint is where the fire originated, because this is often a vital clue.
How is arson evidence collected?
Arson evidence is usually collected in air-tight, clean metal cans. Only large quantities of dry powder should be collected and stored in plastic bags. Moist or wet evidence (blood, plants, etc.)
What kind of background is required to become a fire investigator?
There are no specific educational requirements for fire investigators. Rather, most people come to the occupation through previous work as firefighters, meaning that much of the required training happens on the job.
How much does an ARSON INVESTIGATOR in United States make?
The national average salary for an ARSON INVESTIGATOR is $59,123 per year in United States. Filter by location to see an ARSON INVESTIGATOR salarie...
What is the highest salary for an ARSON INVESTIGATOR in United States?
The highest salary for an ARSON INVESTIGATOR in United States is $90,091 per year.
What is the lowest salary for an ARSON INVESTIGATOR in United States?
The lowest salary for an ARSON INVESTIGATOR in United States is $38,800 per year.
What is the an ARSON INVESTIGATOR career path and salary trajectory?
If you are thinking of becoming an ARSON INVESTIGATOR or planning the next step in your career, find details about the role, the career path and sa...
How much does an Arson Investigation make?
As of Jul 28, 2022, the average annual pay for an Arson Investigation in the United States is $63,108 a year.Just in case you need a simple salary...
What are Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Arson Investigation Jobs?
San Francisco, CA ($76,460)Fremont, CA ($74,624)San Jose, CA ($72,054)Oakland, CA ($71,298)Jackson, WY ($70,991)Sunnyvale, CA ($70,150)Hayward, CA...
What are Top 5 Best Paying Related Arson Investigation Jobs in the U.S.?
Fire Consultant ($121,983)Fire Division Chief ($101,739)Deputy FIRE Chief ($99,872)Assistant FIRE Marshal ($88,122)Fire Protection Engineering Tech...
How much does an arson investigator make?from forensicscolleges.com
According to the BLS (May 2019), the median wage for an arson investigator was $61,660. Those who were in the lowest 10 percent were earning $28,090 or less annually, while those in the top 10 percent of earners were bringing home $89,710 or more per year. As with most occupations, the salary for arson investigators can depend largely on experience, performance, location, organization, and specialization.
What is the role of an arson investigator?from forensicscolleges.com
An arson investigator has a number of responsibilities, including the analysis of collected evidence from the scene of a fire, reconstruction of the scene and collaboration with other types of specialists , such as engineers and attorneys. Additionally, arson investigators may be called to testify at trials.
How many fire inspectors will be there in 2028?from forensicscolleges.com
In 2018, there were 15,200 jobs for fire inspectors and fire investigators. By 2028, the BLS believes that the job number will increase to 16,500, an addition of 1,300 jobs. The competition for jobs in this field is high, so it is important for those who are considering a career as an arson investigator to look at methods that could help to improve their chances of landing a job in the field after training. To gain an advantage, having fire suppression training or training in criminal investigation and related fields could be a boon.
What education do you need to be an arson investigator?from forensicscolleges.com
Investigator Education and Experience Requirements. As mentioned above, at a minimum, an arson investigator must have a high school diploma and experience working with law enforcement or the fire department. Around 40 percent of fire investigators have a bachelor’s degree and 24 percent have a master’s degree (CareerOneStop.org).
What are the skills of a prospective investigator?from forensicscolleges.com
Some of the skills prospective investigators often have demonstrated great attention to detail and the ability to think critically. Clear communication skills are also highly important. The ability to analyze evidence and find the cause of the fire based on that evidence is vital to the success of an investigator working in this field.
How fast will arson investigations grow?from forensicscolleges.com
The arson investigation career, which the BLS categorizes alongside fire inspectors and investigators, is expected to grow 10 percent between 2018 and 2028, which is a bit faster than the average growth rate of all occupations, which stands at 5 percent for the same time period (BLS 2019).
What is the International Association of Arson Investigators?from forensicscolleges.com
The International Association of Arson Investigators is a quality resource for those in the field and those who are interested in additional information. The organization’s site features news, career information, a training calendar, and job listings.
How much does an Arson Investigation make?
As of Feb 17, 2022, the average annual pay for an Arson Investigation in the United States is $64,281 a year.
Is there an arson job market in San Francisco?
Importantly, San Francisco, CA has a moderately active Arson Investigation job market with only a few companies currently hiring for this type of role.
How much does an Arson Investigator make?
As of Feb 5, 2022, the average annual pay for an Arson Investigator in the United States is $54,204 a year.
What are Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Arson Investigator Jobs
We’ve identified 10 cities where the typical salary for an Arson Investigator job is above the national average. Topping the list is San Mateo, CA, with Berkeley, CA and Daly City, CA close behind in the second and third positions.
What are Top 5 Best Paying Related Arson Investigator Jobs in the U.S
We found at least five jobs related to the Arson Investigator job category that pay more per year than a typical Arson Investigator salary. Top examples of these roles include: Fire Division Chief, Fire Engineer, and International Fire Chief.
Top searched cities for Arson Investigator Salaries
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What are the duties of an arson investigator?
On the scene, they will collect evidence, identify any potential accelerants, and work towards determining the cause (s) of a fire. They may also interview witnesses, assist in the identification of offenders in cases of arson, and arrest suspects.
How much does a fire investigator make?
The median annual salary for fire inspectors and investigators is $60,200 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 2 Salaries for fire investigators vary depending on education, experience, and the employing agency. The BLS projects that employment for fire investigators will grow by 10%, which is faster than the national average, for the decade from 2016 to 2026. 2
What do arson investigators wear?
Investigators must take precautions when investigating a fire scene by wearing boots, a helmet, gloves, and other protective clothing.
What do fire investigators do?
Fire investigators will frequently prepare evidence for court and testify as expert witnesses, working closely with the prosecution to build a case where there is suspicion of arson or insurance fraud.
What is the International Association of Arson Investigators?
International Association of Arson Investigators, Inc.: An association for fire and arson investigators, and those in similar careers , that offers education, training, and networking opportunities for members.
Why do fire investigators start out as law enforcement?
Many arson and fire investigators start out as law enforcement officers or firefighters, to gain experience that may prove advantageous to candidates during the hiring process.
How long does it take to become a fire investigator?
Investigators who work for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), for example, must complete two years of mandatory training, including six weeks of classroom time and the examination of a minimum ...
How long does it take to become an arson investigator?
It’s likely that when you start working you’ll need to spend 1-2 years working as a police officer before you are promoted to the arson squad as an investigator.
What is the role of an arson investigator?
An arson investigator’s role is to find the source of a fire in the case of suspicious circumstances. Fire fighters will alert law enforcement when they suspect arson, or notice a fire not behaving in the way it should.
How do arson investigators determine the cause of a fire?
An arson investigator determines the cause of a fire by examining the scene of the blaze, interviewing witnesses, and communicating with fire fighters. If you have an good eye for detail and an interest in law enforcement then you might like to become an arson investigator. An arson investigator’s role is to find the source of a fire in the case ...
What would you do if you were to work for an insurance agency or fire department?
If you were to work for an insurance agency or fire department, you might start working as an arson investigator right away.
How many years of college do you need to become an arson investigator?
The best entrance to a career as an arson investigator is a four year bachelor degree.
How to become an arson inspector?
Arson Inspectors usually have previous experience as firefighters. In order to become a firefighter, you need to participate in a recruitment fair organized by the fire department. In order to qualify for a job as a firefighter, you need a high school diploma or GED and must be at least 18 years of age .
Where do arson investigators work?
Most arson investigators work for law enforcement agencies at both the state and national level.
How to become an arson investigator?
To become an arson investigator, students have to pursue a college degree. Some students choose to do a four-year undergraduate program, while others opt for a two-year associate degree. After completing their degree, students have to become Certified Fire Investigators (CFIs) and obtain specialized training.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming an Arson Investigator?
A few requirements vary with the nature of the job but there are a few common requirements as well:
What degree do you need to be an arson investigator?
Aspiring arson investigators are required to have a bachelor’s degree. These professionals are required to have strong critical-skills so they can analyze the evidence taken from a crime scene and figure out the cause of the incident. They should be able to determine how the fire started and should use their knowledge of the physical properties to figure out if it was intentional or accidental.#N#Arson Investigators are also required to have physical strength so they can move the debris during the investigation. Even though the number of fires has decreased, the employment rate in this field is projected to rise because arson investigators will be needed to figure out the causes of any explosions or fires. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean salary of an arson investigator was $64,730 in 2019.
Why are arson investigators needed?
Arson Investigators are also required to have physical strength so they can move the debris during the investigation . Even though the number of fires has decreased, the employment rate in this field is projected to rise because arson investigators will be needed to figure out the causes of any explosions or fires.
