30 Fire Investigator Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Fire Investigator interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. How do you handle a dispute with a coworker or supervisor?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for coworkers or supervisors to have a dispute or disagreement with someone they work with. The interviewer knows this and wants to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess as a Fire Investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a supervisor or coworker. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewer wants to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
You do not want to say that you avoid or ignore disagreements or get angry when a dispute arises in the workplace. The interviewer does not want to hear that you lack conflict resolution and communication skills. You also want to avoid speaking poorly of the person you had the dispute with or placing the blame solely on the other individual. You need to be responsible and recognize your part in the conflict.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Luckily, I have had good coworkers and supervisors in the past with minimal conflict. If there is an issue with a colleague or supervisor, I like to nip it in the bud. I ask them to speak in private, address the issue, and come up with a resolution that makes us both happy."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
2. What is the most difficult case you have worked on?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see what you consider challenging and how you work through a complex case. They also want to see what types of cases you have worked on to determine your experience level.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing a problematic case and how you used your critical thinking and problem-solving skills to determine the cause of the fire. Or, it could be another reason the case was challenging, such as multiple people died in the fire, or it was intentionally set and caused major damage and it unsettled you. If you are a new Fire Investigator and have not had a challenging call, describe how you would handle one.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid giving an example of a case you could not solve. If you could not determine the cause of a particular fire, the interviewer may question your investigative skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"The most challenging case I have worked on was a gas explosion at a pre-school. While I easily found the cause of the fire, it was difficult for me because there were so many young children killed. I have two young children, and it hit close to home. I was able to complete the case working alongside the fire department, but we all required critical incident debriefing after the call."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Would you describe yourself as a detail-oriented person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a Fire Investigator, you must be detail-oriented. You will be responsible for conducting interviews, writing reports, analyzing claims and underwriting data, and performing complex investigations. The interviewer wants to hear that you pay attention to detail to see that you will be an excellent addition to their team.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have a letter of recommendation or performance review from a previous employer that describes your attention to detail, let the interviewer know when responding to this question. When a former employer or supervisor comments on your attention to detail, it carries more weight than when you describe yourself. If you do not have a letter or performance review, give an example of why you consider yourself a detail-oriented person.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
To be considered for the position, you want to avoid saying that you are not detail-oriented. The interviewer does not want to hire a Fire Investigator that may miss the smallest details or whose work may need correcting. If minor details are missed--it could cost the agency money and its reputation.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I would describe myself as detail-oriented. I pride myself on my ability to catch even the slightest errors in reports and remember the smallest details when conducting an investigation. My attention to detail has helped me solve many cases that my colleagues could not."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
4. What is your greatest strength as a Fire Investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest strength as a Fire Investigator to determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Review the job description before your interview and look for keywords the agency used to describe its ideal candidate. Then, choose one of those keywords that you have identified as your greatest strength, showing the interviewer that you have the characteristics they are looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Suppose the job description says the agency seeks an experienced Fire Investigator with strong communication and analytical skills to work in a leadership position. In that case, describe your greatest strength as either your experience or your communication, analytical, or leadership skills. Focus on using a keyword from the job description so the interviewer can see that you have one of the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Most job descriptions use several keywords to describe the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate. Avoid using a strength that is not in the job announcement or that is not related to the job of a Fire Investigator. The interviewer wants to hear that your strength is a quality they seek in a candidate and that you will benefit the company if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest strength as a Fire Investigator is my ability to think analytically. I can take complex problems, analyze and extract data, think critically, and resolve the issues identified. I have over ten years of experience honing these skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
5. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that you have the strong oral and written communication skills required for Fire Investigator positions. Your job duties will include speaking with claimants, witnesses, and fire and law enforcement members. You will also testify in court when needed and must have excellent documentation skills. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your written and oral communication skills. If you have a former supervisor who commented on your excellent communication skills in a letter of recommendation or performance review, use their description in your response. The interviewer wants to know that you can speak clearly with others while properly documenting reports and other forms of written communications.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying your communication skills could use improvement. The interviewer will pass you over for another candidate if you have poor communication skills. If you need to strengthen your communication skills, you might want to enroll in a leadership course, public speaking class, or read or watch a video on improving your communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have solid communication skills and feel this is one of my greatest strengths. I took two years of communications courses in college and have honed my verbal and written communication skills over the years. I have a letter of recommendation from my previous employer highlighting these skills and have a copy if you would like to see it."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
6. How do you stay up to date on the latest trends in your profession?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how you stay up to date on the latest trends and techniques used by Fire Investigators. There are publications, webinars, conferences, podcasts, in-person training, and continuing education courses offering Fire Investigators training on the latest issues and techniques in the industry. The interviewer wants to see that you take your profession seriously by staying current on the latest trends.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
When responding to this question, focus on describing all of the different ways you stay current in your industry. The more methods you have to keep up-to-date on the latest issues confronting Fire Investigators, the better.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you do not stay current on the latest trends. There are many different avenues available to keep current on the latest trends, and the interviewer wants to hear that you take advantage of the information that is out there. If you do not follow the industry trends, the interviewer will determine that you lack the passion and motivation to improve your knowledge as a Fire Investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am a member of the National Association of Fire Investigators and the International Association of Arson Investigations and attend their annual seminars. They have workshops about the latest insurance scams, the fundamentals of fire investigations, forensic photography, and how to provide testimony and become an expert witness. They also have webinars throughout the year where highly respected experts in the industry present the latest trends and techniques used by Fire Investigators."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
7. Can you work independently, or do you prefer to be closely supervised?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many agencies post they are looking for Fire Investigators who are self-starters and can work independently. While working in a team environment is also required as you collaborate with coworkers, fire personnel, and law enforcement, agencies want investigators who can conduct independent research, examine the evidence, interview victims, and determine the cause of the fire. The interviewer asks this question to see that you can work independently and not need to be closely supervised if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing that you work well independently and work well with teams. The interviewer wants to hear that you can work in different types of situations but that you do not need close supervision.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying that you require close supervision. The interviewer wants a Fire Investigator who is comfortable working alone but knows when to ask a supervisor for assistance with an investigation.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very comfortable working independently. I have worked as a Fire Investigator for five years and have always worked alone, except for when I need to collaborate with law enforcement or fire agencies. I work well in a team environment as well as independently. I do not prefer close supervision as I am confident in my skills as an investigator. If I have a question or require assistance from my supervisor, I do not hesitate to ask them."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
8. Have you ever testified in court? If so, how was your experience?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Testifying at court proceedings is one of the job duties of a Fire Investigator, and the interviewer wants to hear about your experience. The interviewer asks this question to see if you have testified in court and how comfortable you were doing so. If you have never testified in court, be honest and say that you have not. Then, describe how you feel you will do well since you are comfortable speaking in public and have excellent communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have testified in court, describe approximately how many times and your comfort level when testifying. It is normal to be nervous when testifying in court, but most Fire Investigators become more confident and less anxious over time.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you have never testified in court, avoid saying that you have. The interviewer will find out when contacting your references, and you never want to be dishonest in an interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I have testified in court close to twenty times. I felt nervous the first few times but became more comfortable as I gained experience. Overall, all of my experiences have been straightforward and to the point."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
9. What is your greatest weakness as a Fire Investigator and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness as a Fire Investigator to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your investigative skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent Fire Investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid describing a weakness that is a crucial responsibility as a Fire Investigator or one that is not work-related. The interviewer wants to hear what weakness in your profession you have identified and how you plan to improve.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness as a Fire Investigator is my typing speed. I can type 40 words per minute, which is average. However, my goal is to get to 60 words per minute. I signed up for an online typing course and started one week ago. The course outline says that I can go from amateur to pro in thirty days, spending one hour a day practicing. My goal is to be at 60 words per minute in the next thirty days."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
10. Being a Fire Investigator can be a stressful career. How do you handle stress on the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you are someone who can handle stress on the job. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to handle pressure in the workplace and techniques you use to minimize job stressors.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on letting the interviewer know you understand how to decompress away from work so you are ready to mentally handle the pressures of your job. When members of the fire service understand the stress factor of their job and have healthy ways to relieve stress, they are less apt to burn out or become sick or injured due to stress.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying you do not handle stress well. If you cannot deal with the stressors of the job, the interviewer will determine you may not be a good fit for the agency.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand this job is stressful, and I am prepared for that. If I feel overly stressed, I will discuss this with my supervisor. In addition, I eat a healthy, balanced diet, exercise, and spend time with my family on my days off. Taking care of myself mentally and physically prepares me to handle stressful situations with ease."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
11. Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause much stress and anxiety in coworkers and the public, so you must showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Interviewers want to hire Fire Investigators who are patient and can remain calm in challenging situations. Focus on letting the interviewer know that you are patient and professional and can increase your patience level during difficult times
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Fire Investigators must be patient when dealing with the public and other agencies. Avoid not answering both parts of the question or saying that you are an impatient person. Be sure to explain how you remain patient during difficult situations and increase your patience level when needed.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an eight out of ten for patience because I certainly have room to grow, but I do have a very long fuse. If I need a boost of patience in a challenging situation, I will take a step away, count to 10, and then return to the situation. I recently read a book, 'The Power of Patience' by M.J. Ryan, which also gave me some excellent new methods for coping with stress."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
12. Describe a time when you had your ethics tested.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that you are honest and have integrity. As a Fire Investigator, you may be offered bribes to alter an investigation or may witness someone stealing something that is not theirs. The interviewer wants to hear that you are ethical and can be trusted if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on providing an example of when you had your ethics tested as a Fire Investigator or as a fire service member. If you are new to this field, use an example from a previous job or while attending school. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying you have never had your ethics tested without providing an example of what you would do if they were. If you have never been in a situation where you had to make an ethical decision based on your morals, tell the interviewer that you have not been put in that position and describe what you would do if that happened.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I had my ethics tested when working as a firefighter. I had a partner who took some pain medication from a patient's bedside table. I asked him what he was doing, hoping he had made a mistake. He told me to mind my own business and did not return the medication to the table. I had no choice but to tell my captain what I had witnessed, and the firefighter lost his job for stealing. I felt bad for my partner, but I cannot tolerate stealing from others."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Behavioral
13. What is your process for determining the origin of a fire?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how you conduct fire investigations so they can determine if you have the skills they are looking for in a Fire Investigator. They want to hear that you have the education needed to conduct fire investigations and understand your process when conducting an investigation.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing how you use scientific methods to investigate a fire. Explain how you produce a hypothesis based on data analysis to explain how the fire started, looking at fire behavior, the nature of fire patterns, fire spread, the ignition sequence, and the identification of the origin.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid not having a response to this question. If you cannot describe the steps you take when investigating fires, the interviewer will question your ability as a Fire Investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I always follow the same process to determine the origin of a fire. It was how I was taught, and it works every time. I apply the scientific method to determine the fire's origin. Based on the data analysis, I form a hypothesis, test it, and form a conclusion about the cause and origin of the fire or explosion."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
14. If we choose to hire you, when can you start?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how soon you could start if they offer you the position. They want to hear if you can start immediately or if you need to give two weeks' notice to your current employer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you are currently unemployed, it is best to say you can start immediately as it shows you are eager to get to work. If you need to give two weeks' notice, focus on telling the interviewer that you need to give your notice but can start sooner if your current employer fills your position before two weeks.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you are currently employed, avoid saying you can start immediately. If you do not give two weeks' notice to your employer, the interviewer will determine that you lack respect for your employer and may question hiring you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am currently working with another company and would need to give two weeks' notice to my supervisor. If they were able to cover my position sooner than two weeks, I could start earlier."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
15. What are the main duties and responsibilities of a Fire Investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you understand the duties and responsibilities of a Fire Investigator to see how well you know your job. Every agency has different tasks and responsibilities, so it is best to review the job description before your interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
After reviewing the agency's job description, use the primary duties and responsibilities mentioned in the job description in your response. Focusing on using what the agency outlined in their job description shows the interviewer that you pay attention to detail and understand your responsibilities if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid describing a Fire Investigator's primary duties and responsibilities that do not apply to the job. For example, suppose you say a Fire Investigator's main responsibilities are to teach fire prevention measures and inspect businesses to ensure there are no fire hazards. In that case, you are not describing a Fire Investigator's responsibilities but rather a Fire Prevention Officer or Fire Inspector's duties.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"The main duties of a Fire Investigator are to collect and analyze evidence from the scenes of fires and explosions, interview witnesses, reconstruct fire scenes, send evidence to be analyzed, and determine the cause and origin of fires."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
16. What are your salary expectations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise. The interviewer wants to hear if your expectations are within the company's budget and whether you are willing to negotiate if necessary. The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on explaining what your current salary and benefits are and how you would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher, based on your experience. If you are more comfortable giving a range, shoot for higher than you want so there is room for negotiations. However, you want to make sure you do not name a range higher than the job description lists or you might talk yourself out of a job.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
If the job announcement lists a salary range of $80,000 to $85,000 per year based on experience, you want to avoid asking for less than or more than the agency's budget. If you ask for less than offered, it shows you do not value your education and experience. If you ask for more than suggested, the interviewer may be hesitant to hire you unless you have advanced skills that will significantly benefit their organization.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $85,000 per year plus full benefits. I want to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
17. Why did you choose to become a Fire Investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what motivates you in your career. They want to hear if you were mentored by another Fire Investigator, have family or friends who work in the fire service, if you worked in the fire service and decided to change careers, or heard about fire investigations from a guidance counselor or professor.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving your personal reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewer wants to gain insight into what motivates and inspires you as a Fire Investigator to determine if you will be a good fit for their organization.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you pursued a career as a Fire Investigator for the money and benefits or because you could not get hired in the fire service. If you seem like you are only in this career for monetary reasons, the interviewer will feel you lack passion for the job. If you say that you could not get hired in the fire service, the interviewer will wonder why the fire service would not hire you and question hiring you as a Fire Investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose to pursue a career as a Fire Investigator after working as a firefighter for ten years. I loved working as a firefighter but found the investigative work intriguing. I asked a Fire Investigator with our department if they enjoyed their job, asked specifics about their work, and inquired about how to pursue this profession. After speaking to the investigator that day, she let me ride along on my days off to see what her job entailed. I was hooked and signed up for the Certified Fire Investigator program through the International Association of Arson Investigators."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
18. This position requires out-of-town travel at times. Will traveling be a problem for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If the interviewer asks this question, they want to ensure you know the job requirements regarding travel and make sure that will not be an issue if hired. Often, Fire Investigators will need to travel to attend work-related conferences or work on an investigation. If traveling is one of the job requirements, the agency should have put that in the job description, so it should not surprise you in the interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on assuring the interviewer that traveling will not be an issue when required. Emphasize how you enjoy traveling to new places and do not have other obligations that prohibit you from doing so.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying that you cannot travel when needed. The interviewer wants to hire someone flexible and accommodating with the work schedule. If traveling would be an issue for you, explain why. For example, you might care for an elderly relative or have childcare issues. If you have a valid reason for not traveling, the interviewer can then decide how to proceed in the hiring process.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, traveling will not be a problem. I enjoy traveling and meeting new people and look forward to the opportunity to do so with your agency."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
19. How did you hear about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies invest a lot of money advertising their job openings. The interviewer wants to hear what methods are effective and which are not. They also want to hear if an employee of their agency referred you. Describe how you heard about the position, and be sure to give the name of the employee or recruiter who referred you if applicable. Some companies offer their employees a referral fee when referring a candidate, while others hire recruiters to seek out qualified candidates.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to briefly hear how you heard about the position. Be concise in your response, focusing on disclosing the recruiter's name, the website where the agency posted the job, the agency website, or the employee who referred you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid forgetting where you heard about the position. Suppose you cannot remember where you learned about the job opening. In that case, the interviewer will determine that you do not pay attention to detail and might be applying to many other positions.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I heard about the position from my neighbor, Bob Morgan. He is a captain with your department and knew I was looking for a Fire Investigator position in your department. When he saw the job was posted, he called and let me know."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
20. Why do you want to work for our agency?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you have researched their agency. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of their company that stand out from others. You may want to work for their agency because of their stellar reputation, their opportunities for professional growth and advancement, or their high number of cases.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Instead of giving a generic answer to this question, focus on showing the interviewer that you have thoroughly researched their agency. For example, if you say that you want to work for their company because they investigate fires, that could apply to many other agencies. Instead, say that you want to work for their agency because they have a reputation for having a higher number of house and commercial building fires than other similarly sized agencies.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
When responding to this question, you want to avoid saying that you want to work for their agency because they pay more than other agencies or offer a more comprehensive benefits package. The interviewer will feel that you only want to work for their agency for monetary reasons. Instead, describe your reason as aligning with the company's mission statement, reputation, or company culture.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I want to work for your agency because you are a customer-focused agency that believes in offering exceptional customer service as your top priority. I also believe in putting my customers first while helping them when they become victims of a residential or commercial fire. With your stellar reputation and fire determination success rate, I cannot think of another agency I would rather work with."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
21. What is your experience working as a Fire Investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The job announcement should say how many years of experience the company requires. The interviewer wants to hear about your experience to ensure you are qualified for the position. Give examples of how many years of experience you have and who you have worked with previously.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on highlighting the number of years of experience you have and in what areas. Many employers require previous experience in the fire service, on-the-job training, or experience working as a Fire Investigator with another agency.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
You always want to have the minimum qualifications needed before applying for a job. If the job announcement says the company requires a minimum number of years of experience, avoid saying you have more experience than you do. The interviewer will contact references and determine that you were dishonest in the interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have worked as a Fire Investigator for eight years. I worked for three years with Fusion Engineering as a Certified Fire Investigator, investigating and analyzing fire and explosion scenes. I have worked with EFI Global, Inc. as a Fire Investigator for the past five years. I was responsible for being the liaison between the insurance company and law enforcement and fire service personnel. Additional responsibilities included attending fire investigation seminars and other company-sponsored courses and using that information to create continuing education courses for the agency."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
22. What questions do you have for me?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to make sure that all of your questions about the company or job role are answered during the interview. It is best to ask a question or two, showing the interviewer your eagerness to learn all you can. Of course, you want to review the job announcement and research the company beforehand so you are not asking questions that could be answered during your research.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on asking questions specific to the role you are interviewing for or about the company culture and work environment. Examples of good questions are asking the interviewer how you performed in the interview or if you need to clarify anything, asking what the interviewer likes most about working for the company, or if they have any hesitancy about hiring you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid asking questions about salary or benefits. The salary and benefits package is often listed on the job announcement or discussed with Human Resources when offered the position. If you ask about money or the benefits package, it makes the interviewer think you are most interested in the monetary aspect of the job. Of course, it is perfectly acceptable to talk about the salary or benefits if the interviewer asks about your salary expectations. However, you do not want to bring it up yourself.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have a question. Thank you for asking. After everything we have gone over in this interview, do you have any hesitancy in offering me the position?"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
23. Tell me about your greatest accomplishment as a Fire Investigator.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments as Fire Investigator. Talking about your most significant achievement will give the interviewer a definite idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your most significant accomplishment as it relates to your career. The interviewer is not asking for a personal achievement but rather a professional one. Think of any awards or promotions you have achieved or a large fire that was difficult to investigate, but you found the source.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid not having an accomplishment you are proud to have achieved. If the interviewer feels that you are not motivated to reach professional achievements and succeed in your profession, they may pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"The greatest accomplishment in my career was discovering the origin of a fire that three other investigators could not uncover. I was called in by an outside agency and found the origin in three days. I received the Fire Investigator of the Year award from the agency. It felt great to be recognized by my peers for my dedication and service."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
24. We conduct early-stage criminal background checks, credit checks, and drug tests on all of our candidates. Is there anything you would like to disclose at this time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Fire service agencies need to be very cautious about who they hire for apparent reasons. There is a chance that the information you will access will be confidential and dangerous if put into the wrong hands. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any form of background check they require. You will be working with the public and their personal property, and the interviewer wants to ensure they hire a Fire Investigator they can trust.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
When responding to this question, focus on thinking back to any disputes you had with a neighbor, poor credit, tickets or citations, criminal or civil charges, arrests, drug use, or family members who have been in trouble with the law. Most background investigations are in-depth, and investigators will discover everything about you. If you have something troubling in your past, this is your opportunity to tell the interviewer what they will find and explain the situation.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
As with any interview question, honesty is the best policy. Avoid telling the interviewer that there will be nothing terrible found during the background investigation if there is something they will discover. Even if you had something expunged from your record or the record was sealed, most investigators will still find out what happened in your past.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"The worst thing you may discover in my background check is my incarcerated brother. He is serving his last two years on an aggravated assault charge. However, I have a clean record, excellent credit, and have never taken drugs. My brother's criminal record does not reflect who I am or how I conduct my life. I just wanted to make you aware in case your investigators discover my brother is in prison."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Discovery
25. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to hear what qualities you will bring to the agency and how it will benefit them if you are hired. This is your chance to highlight your best characteristics and experience, showing them you have all the qualifications they require.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the keywords of the qualities, experience, and education the agency seeks in a Fire Investigator. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response. When describing how you meet all of their job requirements, the interviewer will see that you are a highly qualified candidate and place you high on the candidate list.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Many qualified candidates are interviewing for the same position. You want to avoid speaking negatively of the other candidates or sounding arrogant when responding to this question. You want to sell yourself in the interview, but not while making the interviewer think you will be a challenging person to work with.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for the position because I meet and exceed your job qualifications. I am a Certified Fire Investigator with over seven years of experience and have investigated over 500 fires. I am empathetic, compassionate, level-headed, and work well under pressure. I have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, and I look forward to bringing my skills and experience to your wonderful organization."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Education
26. How do you describe the difference between a Fire Investigator and an Arson Investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you understand the difference between a Fire Investigator and an Arson Investigator. While the two terms are often used interchangeably, the interviewer wants to ensure you know what your job entails.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on knowing the difference between the two. A Fire Investigator investigates the cause of the fire, while an Arson Investigator determines who caused the fire.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying that the two types of investigators are the same. During your studies, you should have learned the difference between the two.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have people ask me this question a lot. A Fire Investigator investigates and determines the cause of a fire, while an Arson Investigator determines who caused the fire."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Education
27. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have the education needed to perform your job as a Fire Investigator. They want to hear if you have a degree, certificates, or any other specialized training that qualifies you to work in this field.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your education as it relates to the position. You do not need to start with receiving your high school diploma or GED. Start with post-secondary training and beyond. If you do not have post-secondary training and the position calls for only a high school diploma or GED, mention that you are qualified and describe if you have your diploma or GED. However, most Fire Investigator jobs require a minimum of a bachelor's degree or fire investigative certification and work experience to apply for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
Suppose the job announcement says the agency is looking for a Fire Investigator with a bachelor's degree in any subject, but preferably in fire science. In that case, you want to have a bachelor's degree before applying to the position. You want to avoid not having the education required for the job. If you do not meet the agency's requirements, you will be disqualified as a candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I obtained my Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science eight years ago from Colorado State University. I then became an IAAI Certified Fire Investigator. I have agreed to a code of ethics and passed their exam. I have maintained my certification by completing the necessary continuing education units and am in good standing as an investigator."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Education
28. What are your qualifications to work as a Fire Investigator?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to ensure you meet the minimum qualifications for the job. If you made it to the interview, you must have the qualifications they require. Let the interviewer know what certifications, degrees, or on-the-job experience you have that makes you qualified to work as a Fire Investigator.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Review the job announcement before your interview to ensure you meet the agency's minimum qualifications. Focus on naming any related degrees, certifications, or on-the-job training you have that qualifies you to work as a Fire Investigator. If the agency says they prefer a candidate to have specific capabilities, and you possess them, highlight that in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid not meeting the agency's minimum requirements to work as a Fire Investigator. If you do not meet the organization's minimum requirements, they will disqualify you as a candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I obtained my Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science five years ago and have worked as a Fire Investigator with the Ventura County Fire department for five years. Shortly after receiving my bachelor's, I became an IAAI Certified Fire Investigator and have investigated over 1,200 fires in my career."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Leadership
29. As a Fire Investigator, what experience do you have training others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer will ask this question if one of the job duties is to train others. It could be that your job would be to train new investigators, the community, or other agencies. The interviewer wants to determine your experience and qualifications in a teaching capacity to see if you will be a good fit for their agency.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing the number of years of experience you have training others and in what capacity. Explain if you have trained and mentored new investigators, provided continuing education training, or trained other agencies in the art of investigating fires.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
This question applies to training others while working as a Fire Investigator. Avoid describing training others in a different capacity unless you are a new Fire Investigator with no prior experience. If that is the case, you can use an experience where you trained others as a coach, a tutor, or trained new employees at a previous job.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have worked as a Fire Investigator for the past ten years and have trained law enforcement and fire personnel on fire investigations, fire science students at a community college, and mentored new investigators at the different companies I have worked for. I feel very confident in my teaching capabilities."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Leadership
30. Do you see yourself a leader? When have you led a team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Perhaps you have led a team at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. You should always be prepared to show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500 or a team of 2, you must display to the interviewer that you can handle the responsibility that comes with being a leader and mentor.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Talk about your desire to be a leader. Share with the interviewer that you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be the face of the organization when challenges arise. Even though Fire Investigators will often work independently, there will be times you will lead a team of other investigators or mentor new investigators.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you have worked as a Fire Investigator or in another area of the fire service, focus on giving an example from your industry. If you are new to the field, provide an example of how you have demonstrated leadership qualities at church, school, sports, or a previous job.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I see myself as a leader. Not only have I managed a team in two previous roles, but I also believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I am sure to lead at all times by providing the best model of enthusiasm and work ethic."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 18th, 2022