Posts Tagged ‘arson investigator’

How To Get A Job As An Arson Investigator

Fires can have many causes including sparks from fireplaces or campfires, carelessly discarded cigarettes, poorly maintained appliances, and faulty wiring.  These causes are relatively easy to detect.  It is more difficult to ascertain when the cause is arson.  If a fire is considered suspicious, an Arson Investigator may be needed.

Arson Investigators work in difficult and often dangerous environments.  They may be required to work beyond the usual eight hours per day and even, occasionally, on  an emergency basis.  Travel may be involved.

Arson Investigators need good eyesight, a good sense of smell, and specialized education.  They must be detail oriented, well organized, and dedicated to their craft.  They work hand in hand with law enforcement.

An Arson Investigator begins his job from the outside in, looking for any signs that would indicate any felonious activity.  He will check the pattern of the fire to its point of origin, being aware that there may be several points of origin, which is often an indicator of arson.  The Investigator must watch for melting patters, burn and char patterns and any other physical or trace evidence of foul play.  He will take photographs, take samples for later lab analysis, interview witnesses, including firemen, review police reports, look for any trace elements potentially left by perpetrators, and check for possible motives for the arson.  In order to track down any fire propellants, the Arson Investigator may use a specially-trained canine.
Education

Requirements vary from state to state regarding education so check with the National Association of Arson Investigators, the NAAI, for information relevant to the state in which you reside.  Go to   http://firearson.com/

Minimally, Arson Investigators need a College Associate’s Degree.  A Bachelor’s Degree is preferable.  The degrees that would be most useful are degrees in Fire Science, Criminal Justice, Engineering, or Chemistry.  Some states offer a degree in Fire/Arson Investigation.  Having been employed in a fire department, as an insurance investigator, or in law enforcement are an advantage.

Once you have a degree, you will probably be required to take some additional training specific to the area in which you are employed.

With sufficient education and experience, you will be able to get a license and later become certified.  It is always wise to become certified as soon as possible as Certification is a testament to your skill and experience level.

There is considerable competition in this field but the satisfaction the job brings makes the process well worth the effort.