Fire Inspector

Overview

The City of Ventura is excited to offer opportunities to join the Fire Department as a Fire Inspector or Senior Fire Inspector. Fire Inspectors play a vital role in protecting the safety of residents, businesses, and visitors by ensuring compliance with fire and life safety codes. This is a non-sworn (civilian) position.

As a valued member of a dedicated and collaborative team, you’ll help uphold the City’s commitment to exceptional service and community well-being by making a meaningful difference every day. In this role, you will perform a variety of technical inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with municipal, state, and federal fire prevention and hazardous materials regulations. You’ll work closely with property owners, contractors, and partner agencies to promote fire and life safety standards citywide.

$72,679.98/yr - $97,123.73/yr

Depending on assignment, duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct inspections of new and existing buildings and occupancies to ensure compliance with fire and life safety codes.
• Investigate complaints and potential violations, prepare detailed reports, and issue notices or citations as appropriate.
• Coordinate with property owners, contractors, and other agencies to resolve code deficiencies and promote compliance.
• Participate in public education and community outreach activities to increase fire prevention awareness.
• Provide technical expertise and post-incident analysis support during emergency responses.
• Serve as a knowledgeable resource for Fire Department staff, other City departments, and the public.
• Oversee specialized programs such as hazardous materials inspections, weed abatement, or fire protection system testing (as assigned).

The ideal candidate will:

• Possess a strong understanding of fire prevention principles, fire and building codes, and inspection practices.
• Exercise sound judgment and attention to detail when identifying and resolving code violations.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with contractors, property owners, and the public to ensure understanding and compliance.
• Be adept at interpreting plans, reviewing permits, and applying technical standards in practical situations.
• Excel in a field-based environment and remain flexible in response to changing conditions and priorities.
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to public service.
• Collaborate effectively with Fire Department staff and other City departments to achieve shared goals.
• Remain calm and composed when handling difficult or confrontational situations.
• Take initiative in learning new regulations, inspection techniques, and technology tools.
• Take pride in promoting community safety and representing the City of Ventura with excellence.

Fire Inspector: A combination of education, training, and experience equivalent to the completion of high school and one year of experience interpreting and enforcing laws and regulations with a governmental agency, including research, investigation and preparation of reports for Municipal Code Enforcement or Fire Prevention is required. College coursework in Fire or Construction Technology, Environmental Studies, Chemistry, Criminal Justice, or a closely related field is highly desirable.

Senior Fire Inspector: In addition to the requirements of a Fire Inspector, 18 months of experience equivalent to that of a Fire Inspector with the City of Ventura is required.

License: Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license is required.

Certificates:

• Completion of PC 832 is highly desirable prior to appointment and required within 12 months of appointment.
• Certification by the International Code Council (ICC) in Fire Prevention or Hazardous Materials is highly desirable.
• Successful completion of California State Fire Marshal Fire Inspector 1A, 1B, or Fire Prevention I series courses is highly desirable.

Submit your online City job application and supplemental questionnaire by the filing deadline. Resumes may be…