FIRE INSPECTOR




Purpose of Job
The purpose of this classification is to conduct inspections of new constructions, existing structures and governmental facilities. This is a safety sensitive position that requires a drug screen and the ability to be bonded and deputized through the Knox County Sheriff's Office.

Position Reports to:
Deputy Fire Marshal, Fire Prevention Division


Direct Reports:
None

Essential Functions:



  • Performs scheduled inspections of structures currently under construction for compliance with the adopted codes.

  • Performs periodic inspections of existing buildings and structures for compliance with the adopted codes.

  • Performs plans review for compliance with the adopted codes.

  • Responds to fire and life safety related complaints, and other safety related complaints as needed

  • Witnesses the testing of all fire related suppression and detection systems as required for occupancy permit.

  • Notify owners of permit requirements when buildings become vacant.

  • Communicates and interacts with property owners, developers, architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and others they may work with in the field.

  • Conducts progress checks on open permits.

  • Identify recently vacant buildings and tenant spaces to assure compliance with the proper permitting procedures.

  • Schedules and prepare cases for court when projects are issued citations for code violations.

  • Use electronic equipment to enter files, schedule inspections, scan submitted documents, maintain and organize entries and otherwise ensure all relevant assigned electronic files are complete, accurate and up to date.

  • Testifies in court on the Fire Bureau’s actions and advises court officials of preferred resolutions.

  • Appears before the Board of Appeals to explain the Fire Bureau’s interpretation of relevant codes sections and to advocate for the Bureau’s position.

  • Participates periodically in the inspector on-call program by responding when necessary to requests from jurisdictional fire departments for after-hours technical assistance.

  • Attends on-going training and education necessary to maintain proficiency and to accumulate continuing education hours for recertification purposes.

  • Assists the public educators with presentations and other fire and life safety educational programs.

  • Installs smoke detectors in private residences as needed.


Required Qualifications:



  • Education: High School; Associate's Preferred

  • Certifications (Required By Hire): Must possess and maintain a valid Tennessee Driver's License.

  • Certifications (Required After Hire): A State of Tennessee Certified Fire Inspector Level I must be obtained within 12 months of hire date. Fire Inspector Level II must be obtained within 2 years.

  • Experience: 2 years

  • Preferences: firefighting and fire investigation experience

  • Other Requirements: None


Substitutes for Requirements:



  • Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered for employment into the position.


Pre-Hire Requirements:



  • Successfully pass a background check.

  • Successfully pass a drug screen and/or physical

  • Successfully pass a MVR check.


Key Knowledge:



  • None


Key Skills:



  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

  • Proficient in use of PCs, tablets, smartphones and other electronic devices

  • Excellent time management skills

  • Good customer service skills

  • Strong interpersonal skills

  • Strong problem-solving skills

  • Good organization skills

  • Good negotiation skills.


Abilities:



  • Ability to work in a position of moderate complexity

  • Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team

  • Ability to focus and demonstrate attention to detail


Additional Job Functions:



  • Respond to and report immediately if called upon by local, regional or central office supervisors, as part of a coordinated emergency response by the Knox County Mayor’s Office

  • Ensure regular, punctual attendance during scheduled work hours.

  • Perform other duties as required.


Occupational Hazards:



  • Exposure to construction site hazards such as mechanized equipment, timber, hand and power tools, uneven terrain, inclement weather, etc.


Working Conditions:



  • Physical demands are light. Ability to lift up to 20lbs.

  • Work is completed primarily outdoors with exposure to various weather conditions.


Knox County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Knox County Government may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL

Location : COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Posting Start : 10/20/2026

Posting End : 11/03/2026

MINIMUM HOURLY RATE: $26.83