Fire Investigator

Fire Investigator Founded in 2005, AEI Corporation (Advanced Engineering Investigations) is a worldwide leader in forensic engineering and consulting. Headquartered in Littleton, Colorado, the company’s team is made up of licensed engineers, fire investigators, and industry experts with extensive combined experience in forensic analysis and investigation, covering areas such as fires and explosions, electrical and mechanical failures, carbon monoxide and chemical incidents, materials forensics. AEI provides investigation support and expert testimony for our clients, including law firms, insurance companies, utilities, energy industry stakeholders, product manufacturers, and a variety of fortune 500 companies. From the beginning, AEI’s mission has been to deliver objective, technically sound answers for clients facing complex engineering and standard of care questions. Our work spans the full lifecycle of the forensic investigation — from on-site examination and artifact collection to laboratory testing, analysis, technical report preparation, and expert testimony. Position: The Fire Investigator is responsible for determining the origin and cause of fires and explosions through systematic scene examinations, artifact collection, and technical analysis. This role requires strong investigative skills, knowledge of fire behavior, and the ability to communicate findings clearly through written reports and expert testimony.Key Responsibilities:Conduct on-site fire and explosion investigations to determine origin and causeExamine fire scenes, identify burn patterns, conduct arc mapping, and document findings using notes, photographs, drones, and diagramsCollect, preserve, and analyze artifacts in accordance with industry standardsApply principles of fire dynamics, heat transfer, and material science to investigative conclusionsConduct detailed witness interviews, involved parties, and occupant interviews to obtain data related to the incidentReview witness statements, incident reports, photographs, and other relevant documentationPrepare detailed, defensible written reports outlining investigative methods, observations, and conclusionsCollaborate with engineers, attorneys, insurance representatives, and law enforcement agenciesProvide deposition and courtroom testimony as an expert witness when requiredMaintain chain of custody and adhere to artifact documentation, collection, handling, and preservation protocolsStay current with applicable codes, standards, and investigative best practices, including NFPA 921 and NFPA 1033Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in fire science, engineering, criminal justice, or a related field (or equivalent experience)Minimum 3 years of experience conducting fire and forensic origin & cause investigationsKnowledge of fire behavior, fire suppression systems, and building constructionFamiliarity with applicable codes, standards, and investigative methodologiesStrong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skillsExcellent written and verbal communication abilitiesAbility to work independently and manage multiple investigations simultaneouslyWillingness to travel and work irregular hours, including nights and weekends as neededPreferred Certifications:Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI)Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator (NAFI-CFEI)State or nationally recognized fire investigator credentialsWildland Fire Origin & Cause Determination a plus (NWCG FI-210)Physical Requirements:Ability to travel 50%+ of the time by vehicle or planeAbility to travel internationally Ability to maneuver in and around job/incident sites including incident scenes and confined spacesExtended walking/standing on uneven terrain, climbing, lifting, bending, kneeling, crouchingAbility to lift 50 lbs.Ability to carry/transport equipment to and from job/incident sitesAbility to inspect and document job sites and relevant artifactsCommunicate effectively and professionally, both oral and writtenAbility to wear personal protective equipment as necessaryMust be able to pass a pulmonary function test and wear a respiratorBenefit Overview:·      Long-term disability insurance·      Life insurance·      Quarterly performance-based bonuses·      401(k) program with Safe Harbor Match·      Paid time off·      Annual training/professional development·      Licensing and professional membership fees·      Health Savings Account (HSA), including company contributionCompensation:Competitive base salary of $90k - $175k plus performance bonus with significant earning potential of 50% of base salary (or more) depending on individual performanceAEI Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer providing a smoke-free work environment. AEI Corporation complies with Equal Pay Act transparency requirements.