Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Fire Investigator – 2025

If you’re looking to become a fire investigator, this guide will help you prepare for your job interview. These questions are curated to assess your knowledge, experience, and problem-solving abilities in the field of fire investigation. Whether you’re applying for a job at a private investigation firm or with a government agency, these questions cover all essential aspects of the role.

General Questions

• 1. Tell us about your background in fire investigation.
  Answer: I have been a certified fire investigator for 10 years. I have a Bachelor's degree in Fire Science and have completed specialized courses in fire investigation techniques and forensic science.
• 2. Why do you want to become a fire investigator?
  Answer: I have always been fascinated by fire and its destructive power. Combining my passion for fire and my investigative skills to solve cases and bring justice to those affected is personally fulfilling for me.

Behavioral Questions

• 3. Tell us about a time when you had to deal with conflicting information during a fire investigation.
  Answer: In one case, eyewitnesses gave conflicting accounts of the events leading up to the fire. I had to carefully analyze the evidence and use my interviewing skills to get to the truth. I was able to determine the cause of the fire and the culprit, who had deliberately started it.
• 4. How do you handle stressful situations during a fire investigation?
  Answer: I remain calm and focused, and rely on my training and expertise. I also know when to ask for help from other experts or team members, and prioritize my tasks to effectively manage the situation.
• 5. Tell us about a time when you had to testify in court as a fire investigator.
  Answer: I had to testify in a high-profile arson case. I was confident in my findings and was able to present them clearly and with strong supporting evidence. The accused was convicted based on my testimony and evidence presented.

Situational Questions

• 6. You arrive at a fire scene and find that the evidence has been tampered with. How would you handle this situation?
  Answer: I would document the scene and any evidence that has not been tampered with. I would also secure and label any evidence that has been tampered with. If necessary, I would request backup from other investigators or authorities to ensure the integrity of the scene and evidence.
• 7. How do you prioritize your tasks when investigating multiple fire scenes simultaneously?
  Answer: I would prioritize based on the severity of the fire, the potential for evidence to be destroyed, and the urgency of the case. I would also delegate tasks to other team members if necessary to efficiently manage the workload.
• 8. What steps would you take to determine if a fire was accidental or deliberately set?
  Answer: I would gather and analyze physical evidence, as well as conduct interviews and review any available surveillance footage. I would also consider any possible motives and potential suspects before coming to a conclusion.

Technical Questions

• 9. What knowledge do you have of fire dynamics and spread?
  Answer: I have a deep understanding of fire behavior and how it spreads and is affected by various factors such as ventilation, fuel, and heat. This knowledge helps me determine the origin and cause of a fire with greater accuracy.
• 10. What specialized equipment do you use for fire investigation?
  Answer: I use fire investigation kits, evidence collection kits, accelerant detection dogs, and thermal imaging cameras to gather and analyze evidence at a fire scene. I am also trained in using advanced software for fire analysis and reconstruction.
• 11. How do you ensure the chain of custody for evidence during a fire investigation?
  Answer: I carefully label and document all evidence collected from the scene and ensure that it is secured and stored properly. I also keep a record of anyone who handles the evidence and their actions to maintain the chain of custody.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 12. What values do you think are important for a fire investigator to have?
  Answer: I believe honesty, integrity, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic are crucial for a successful fire investigator. It is also important to have a good understanding of and respect for the law and due process.
• 13. In your opinion, what makes a successful fire investigation?
  Answer: A successful fire investigation requires a combination of technical knowledge, critical thinking, and strong investigative skills. It also requires effective communication with team members, law enforcement, and other parties involved in the case.
• 14. How do you ensure the safety of yourself and others at a fire scene?
  Answer: It is essential to follow all safety protocols and wear appropriate protective gear at all times. I also conduct regular safety checks during the investigation and communicate any potential hazards to my team and other authorities at the scene.

Experience & Training

• 15. What certifications and training do you have in fire investigation?
  Answer: I am a certified fire investigator through the National Association of Fire Investigators and the International Association of Arson Investigators. I have also completed advanced training in arson investigation techniques and courtroom testimony.
• 16. Can you give an example of a challenging case you worked on as a fire investigator?
  Answer: I once had to investigate a fire at a multi-story apartment building with multiple fatalities. The cause of the fire was unclear, but after thorough investigation, I was able to determine that it was caused by a faulty electrical wiring in one of the units.
• 17. How do you stay current with changes and advancements in the field of fire investigation?
  Answer: I regularly attend industry conferences and seminars, and participate in training and learning opportunities offered by professional organizations. I also stay updated on fire and building codes and regulations.

Salary & Motivation

• 18. What motivates you to excel as a fire investigator?
  Answer: The opportunity to use my skills to help people and to bring justice to those affected by fires is a major motivation for me. I am also driven by the constant challenge of solving complex cases and staying updated on new techniques and technology in the field.
• 19. What salary are you looking for as a fire investigator?
  Answer: I am primarily interested in finding a position where I can grow as a fire investigator and make a positive impact, so the salary is not my primary concern. However, based on my qualifications and experience, I am looking for a salary in the range of $60,000 to $80,000 per year.
• 20. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years as a fire investigator?
  Answer: In the next 5 years, I see myself continuing to expand my knowledge and skills in fire investigation and potentially taking on a leadership role within a team or department. I am also interested in exploring opportunities to train and mentor new fire investigators.