Fire Inspectors

Job Zone

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

O’NET publishes details below this occupation’s level. Showing Fire Inspectors and Investigators — one of 2 occupations here: Fire Inspectors and Investigators, Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Prepare and maintain reports of investigation results, and records of convicted arsonists and arson suspects.97
Testify in court cases involving fires, suspected arson, and false alarms.96
Package collected pieces of evidence in securely closed containers, such as bags, crates, or boxes, to protect them.94
Conduct inspections and acceptance testing of newly installed fire protection systems.92
Analyze evidence and other information to determine probable cause of fire or explosion.91
Subpoena and interview witnesses, property owners, and building occupants to obtain information and sworn testimony.91
Photograph damage and evidence related to causes of fires or explosions to document investigation findings.90
Inspect buildings to locate hazardous conditions and fire code violations, such as accumulations of combustible material, electrical wiring problems, and inadequate or non-functional fire exits.90
Examine fire sites and collect evidence such as glass, metal fragments, charred wood, and accelerant residue for use in determining the cause of a fire.90
Instruct children about the dangers of fire.88
Conduct fire code compliance follow-ups to ensure that corrective actions have been taken in cases where violations were found.88
Inspect properties that store, handle, and use hazardous materials to ensure compliance with laws, codes, and regulations, and issue hazardous materials permits to facilities found in compliance.86

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Write detailed reports of fire inspections performed, fire code violations observed, and corrective recommendations offered.85
Conduct internal investigation to determine negligence and violation of laws and regulations by fire department employees.85
Identify corrective actions necessary to bring properties into compliance with applicable fire codes, laws, regulations, and standards, and explain these measures to property owners or their representatives.84
Test sites and materials to establish facts, such as burn patterns and flash points of materials, using test equipment.84
Develop or review fire exit plans.83
Inspect and test fire protection or fire detection systems to verify that such systems are installed in accordance with appropriate laws, codes, ordinances, regulations, and standards.83
Coordinate efforts with other organizations, such as law enforcement agencies.82
Attend training classes to maintain current knowledge of fire prevention, safety, and firefighting procedures.82
Review blueprints and plans for new or remodeled buildings to ensure the structures meet fire safety codes.80
Dust evidence or portions of fire scenes for latent fingerprints.78
Teach fire investigation techniques to other firefighter personnel.76
Arrange for the replacement of defective fire fighting equipment and for repair of fire alarm and sprinkler systems, making minor repairs such as servicing fire extinguishers when feasible.76
Conduct fire exit drills to monitor and evaluate evacuation procedures.74
Issue permits for public assemblies.74
Supervise staff, training them, planning their work, and evaluating their performance.73
Teach public education programs on fire safety and prevention.72
Develop and coordinate fire prevention programs, such as false alarm billing, fire inspection reporting, and hazardous materials management.71
Recommend changes to fire prevention, inspection, and fire code endorsement procedures.67

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Active Listening66
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking63
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Speaking63
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Writing63
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Reading Comprehension60
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Social Perceptiveness60
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Instructing56
Teaching others how to do something.
Monitoring56
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Persuasion56
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Service Orientation56
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Active Learning53
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Complex Problem Solving53
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

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Judgment and Decision Making53
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Coordination50
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Learning Strategies50
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Systems Evaluation50
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Time Management50
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Negotiation47
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Quality Control Analysis44
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Systems Analysis44
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Management of Personnel Resources41
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Operations Monitoring41
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Mathematics38
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Troubleshooting35
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Management of Financial Resources28
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources28
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Operation and Control28
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Operations Analysis22
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Science22
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Technology Design22
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Programming16
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Repairing6
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Equipment Maintenance3
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Equipment Selection3
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Installation0
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Public Safety and Security93
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Customer and Personal Service82
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Building and Construction81
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Law and Government77
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Education and Training75
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
English Language68
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Administration and Management51
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Chemistry48
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Computers and Electronics48
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Mathematics48
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Personnel and Human Resources48
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Psychology48
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.

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Mechanical47
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Physics46
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Communications and Media45
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Telecommunications45
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Administrative43
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Transportation42
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Design37
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Engineering and Technology36
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Geography35
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Medicine and Dentistry33
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Sociology and Anthropology29
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Philosophy and Theology25
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Therapy and Counseling24
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Economics and Accounting20
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Production and Processing20
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Foreign Language19
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Biology17
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
History and Archeology17
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Sales and Marketing12
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Food Production10
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Fine Arts3
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Problem Sensitivity78
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Oral Comprehension75
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Written Comprehension75
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Written Expression75
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Deductive Reasoning72
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Oral Expression72
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Inductive Reasoning69
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Information Ordering69
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Near Vision66
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Category Flexibility63
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Flexibility of Closure63
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Selective Attention60
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.

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Speech Clarity60
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition60
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Far Vision53
The ability to see details at a distance.
Fluency of Ideas53
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Visual Color Discrimination53
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Originality50
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Perceptual Speed47
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Trunk Strength44
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Visualization44
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Arm-Hand Steadiness41
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Memorization41
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Speed of Closure41
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Time Sharing41
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Auditory Attention38
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Depth Perception38
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Manual Dexterity38
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Number Facility38
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Hearing Sensitivity35
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Mathematical Reasoning35
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Multilimb Coordination35
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Peripheral Vision35
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Spatial Orientation35
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Control Precision31
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Dynamic Strength31
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Extent Flexibility31
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Finger Dexterity31
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Glare Sensitivity31
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Equilibrium31
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Stamina31
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength31
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Wrist-Finger Speed31
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Explosive Strength28
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Night Vision25
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Reaction Time25
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Response Orientation25
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Sound Localization25
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Rate Control22
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Gross Body Coordination19
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Speed of Limb Movement6
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Dynamic Flexibility3
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards92
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Documenting/Recording Information90
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public90
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization88
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge88
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Getting Information87
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials85
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates83
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events83
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems80
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships76
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others75
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

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Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work75
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Working with Computers74
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings71
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Scheduling Work and Activities71
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Performing General Physical Activities69
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Processing Information68
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Analyzing Data or Information67
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Assisting and Caring for Others66
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People64
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment61
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others61
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Developing and Building Teams60
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information59
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Performing Administrative Activities59
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others58
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Developing Objectives and Strategies58
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Training and Teaching Others58
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Thinking Creatively54
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Handling and Moving Objects53
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Coaching and Developing Others52
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others52
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates51
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources43
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment37
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Staffing Organizational Units37
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Selling or Influencing Others36
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Controlling Machines and Processes35
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment30
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment21
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Integrity98
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Attention to Detail92
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability88
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Cautiousness87
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Self-Control74
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Stress Tolerance71
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Perseverance65
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Achievement Orientation61
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Intellectual Curiosity57
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Self-Confidence57
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Adaptability54
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Initiative54
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.

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Cooperation53
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Leadership Orientation47
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Sincerity47
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Tolerance for Ambiguity42
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Social Orientation33
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Empathy29
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Optimism19
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Innovation14
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Humility10
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Realistic75
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Conventional70
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Investigative56
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Enterprising39
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Social27
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Artistic0
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day97%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others92%
E-Mail
- Every day90%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day93%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important80%
- Very important14%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom71%
- Some freedom26%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Every day85%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom60%
- Some freedom34%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important61%
- Very important30%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results65%
- Important results23%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day69%
- Once a month or more but not every week16%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Every day46%
- Once a week or more but not every day48%

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Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important50%
- Very important35%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day44%
- Once a week or more but not every day38%
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
Time Pressure
- Every day31%
- Once a week or more but not every day38%
- Once a month or more but not every week25%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important31%
- Very important31%
- Important35%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day31%
- Once a week or more but not every day43%
- Once a month or more but not every week14%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day33%
- Once a week or more but not every day31%
- Once a month or more but not every week21%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility42%
- High responsibility12%
- Moderate responsibility23%
- Limited responsibility17%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day29%
- Once a week or more but not every day24%
- Once a month or more but not every week25%
- Once a year or more but not every month18%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours41%
- 40 hours44%
- Less than 40 hours15%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day22%
- Once a week or more but not every day49%
- Never17%
Physical Proximity
- Very close (near touching)17%
- Moderately close (at arm's length)43%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)13%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)27%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility19%
- High responsibility31%
- Moderate responsibility30%
- Limited responsibility16%
Conflict Situations
- Every day12%
- Once a week or more but not every day34%
- Once a month or more but not every week41%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day16%
- Once a week or more but not every day33%
- Once a month or more but not every week31%
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Every day17%
- Once a week or more but not every day32%
- Once a month or more but not every week30%
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Every day15%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
- Once a month or more but not every week39%
- Once a year or more but not every month26%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Every day15%
- Once a week or more but not every day35%
- Once a month or more but not every week18%
- Once a year or more but not every month24%
Spend Time Standing
- More than half the time36%
- About half the time47%
- Less than half the time15%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Continually or almost continually13%
- More than half the time22%
- About half the time31%
- Less than half the time33%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious15%
- Very serious34%
- Serious19%
- Fairly serious11%
- Not serious at all21%
Level of Competition
- Extremely competitive11%
- Highly competitive31%
- Moderately competitive36%
- Not at all competitive18%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Very important41%
- Important23%
- Fairly important11%
- Not important at all19%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a week or more but not every day38%
- Once a month or more but not every week30%
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
- Never12%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Every day11%
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week22%
- Once a year or more but not every month36%
- Never17%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Every day20%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month38%
- Never22%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- More than half the time15%
- About half the time21%
- Less than half the time55%
Public Speaking
- Once a month or more but not every week32%
- Once a year or more but not every month42%
- Never11%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Every day11%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month45%
- Never16%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a week or more but not every day18%
- Once a month or more but not every week36%
- Once a year or more but not every month25%
- Never21%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month55%
Spend Time Sitting
- About half the time39%
- Less than half the time55%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually13%
- More than half the time13%
- About half the time11%
- Less than half the time39%
- Never24%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- More than half the time13%
- About half the time15%
- Less than half the time66%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a month or more but not every week22%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never39%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month37%
- Never34%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- About half the time13%
- Less than half the time65%
- Never18%
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated24%
- Slightly automated31%
- Not at all automated38%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time70%
- Never23%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a year or more but not every month37%
- Never48%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- About half the time15%
- Less than half the time43%
- Never42%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Every day13%
- Never82%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Once a year or more but not every month18%
- Never76%
Exposed to Radiation
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never80%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)15%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)85%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Not important at all91%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Post-secondary certificate
Some college, no degree
High school diploma or equivalent

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Data base user interface and query software
Code database software, Microsoft Access, National Fire Incident Reporting System NFIRS
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Electronic mail software
Email software, Microsoft Outlook
Analytical or scientific software
Consolidated Model of Fire and Smoke Transport CFAST, Fire Dynamics Software FDS
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Human resources software
Xerox Government systems FIREHOUSE Software
Internet browser software
Web browser software

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Prepare investigation or incident reports.
Record information about suspects or criminals.
Testify at legal or legislative proceedings.
Process forensic or legal evidence in accordance with procedures.
Inspect equipment to ensure safety or proper functioning.
Analyze crime scene evidence.
Interview people to gather information about criminal activities.
Examine debris to obtain information about causes of fires.
Inspect facilities to ensure compliance with fire regulations.
Record crime or accident scene evidence with video or still cameras.
Educate the public about fire safety or prevention.
Issue permits or other legal documents.

Show all 30 →

Inspect facilities to ensure compliance with security or safety regulations.
Write operational reports.
Investigate crimes committed within organizations.
Identify actions needed to bring properties or facilities into compliance with regulations.
Inform others about laws or regulations.
Develop fire safety or prevention programs or plans.
Attend training to learn new skills or update knowledge.
Collaborate with law enforcement or security agencies to respond to incidents.
Review documents or materials for compliance with policies or regulations.
Examine crime scenes to obtain evidence.
Train personnel in technical or scientific procedures.
Train personnel to enhance job skills.
Maintain fire fighting tools or equipment.
Provide safety training.
Direct fire fighting or prevention activities.
Evaluate employee performance.
Train employees in proper work procedures.
Recommend improvements to increase safety or reduce risks.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Arson and Bomb Investigator
Fire Inspector
Fire Marshall

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology