Employment of fire inspectors is projected to grow 6 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment growth will vary by specialty.
Employment of fire inspectors and investigators is projected to grow 5 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Fire inspectors will be needed to assess potential fire hazards in newly constructed residential, commercial, public, and other buildings in the coming decade. Fire inspectors will also be needed to ensure that existing buildings meet updated and revised federal, state, and local fire codes each year. Although the number of structural fires occurring across the country has been falling for some time, fire investigators will still be needed to determine the cause of fires and explosions.
Employment of forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists is projected to grow 13 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. Forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists are expected to be needed to help prevent and control the increasingly destructive wildfires that the United States has been experiencing.
Job Prospects
Jobseekers should expect strong competition for the number of available positions. Many job openings will come from the need to replace workers who leave the occupation.
Those who have previous work experience in fire suppression, have completed some fire science education, or have training related to criminal investigation should have the best job prospects.
Fire Inspectors
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists
13%
Total, all occupations
7%
Fire inspectors
6%
Fire inspectors and investigators
5%
Fire fighting and prevention workers
5%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program