There are two aspects of being a fire inspector: code enforcement and new construction. Code enforcement entails inspecting businesses/occupancies that are already active and ensuring they comply with the applicable codes. It also involves following up on complaints from the public or fire suppression crews. New construction involves inspecting structures from the beginning of construction to the end (what I do). You are inspecting everything from the underground piping that is installed, to the installation/acceptance of fire protection systems, and being the last one to sign off on a building saying that it is safe and meets code. This also requires the review and analysis of engineering plans. The job is highly analytical and customer focused. You have to be able to see multiple aspects of a structure at one point, validate it all against code requirements, and still be able to represent the department to the public and to contractors in a way where they understand what they need to do to be compliant, while also explaining it in a way that pushes for self-compliance. We also assist with arson investigations which is very challenging and like trying to put a puzzle together that has been burnt, stepped on, and destroyed before you get to put it back together.