Forensic Fire Investigator - Nashville, TN

Nashville Fire Investigator at Rimkus

Rimkus () is a worldwide leader in Engineering and Technical Consulting. Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute resolution, construction management services, and solutions built for the environment.

Investigates, assesses, and determines the origin and cause of fires and explosions in residences, commercial/industrial buildings, vehicles, heavy equipment, marine equipment, and other property. Analyzes fire/explosion scenes, burn patterns, debris, mechanical components, and electrical systems/components to determine the origin and cause. Conducts fraud analyses for possible incendiary-related losses. Prepares detailed written reports of findings that illustrate the conclusions/opinions, observations, and analysis of the investigation.

Works under general supervision, exercising initiative and independent judgment in the performance of assigned tasks.

• Determine the origin and cause of fires and explosions involving structures, equipment, vehicles, heavy equipment, agricultural equipment, and other losses.
• Assist in securing the fire/explosion scene to prevent removal or damage of potential evidence.
• Conduct on‑site, hands‑on forensic fire analysis, including scene photography, interviewing witnesses, gathering information, taking possession of items, cause and origin determination, report preparation, and providing testimony in deposition and trial.
• Search for, identify, collect, and label any potential evidence/items from the fire scene, including devices used to set, start, or further the progress of fire; protect the chain of custody of potential evidence/items.
• Provide technical and scientific support to clients for subrogation and litigation purposes.
• Conduct code compliance research including electrical, gas, fire, building and installation code violations.
• Facilitate and help present continuing education seminars on fire‑related topics.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• IAAI‑CFI certification preferred.
• A minimum of NAFI‑CFEI with the ability to obtain an IAAI‑CFI within 18 months.
• 5+ years of related work experience in fire investigation or a related field.
• AAS in Fire Science, Fire Investigation, Forensic Science or related experience as a fire investigator, firefighter, or law enforcement officer/investigator.

• High level of analytical skills; continual attention to detail with the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interact and communicate with clients at all levels (e.g., internal and external).
• Knowledge of a variety of computer software applications including but not limited to Microsoft Office and computer‑assisted engineering and design software.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical reports, journals, financial reports, and legal documents.
• Ability to write scopes of work clearly and coherently, budget estimates, schedules, reports of findings, proposals, general correspondence, and other technical documents.
• Ability to respond to inquiries from internal and external clients.
• Capable of effectively presenting information to top management, clients, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

Physical Demands
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Work is performed both in an office setting and at outside locations (client’s office, industrial, construction, and/or residential sites). Employee is frequently required to climb ladders, walk on roofs, and work in space‑limited areas. Employee must wear a tight‑fitting respirator during investigations, may shovel fire debris, move furniture and other items, operate lifts as needed, and lift or move up to 50 pounds.

Must be sharp, focused, and alert when conducting site inspections, preparing written reports of findings, and testifying in deposition or trial. Clear vision and depth perception are also necessary.

Overtime
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This position is classified as salaried with an exempt FLSA status. Regular working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00…