Deputy Fire Marshal I

Durango Fire Protection District is hiring a Deputy Fire Marshal I. Responsibilities include fire prevention, inspections, and investigations. Salary is $48.16/hour.

The Deputy Fire Marshal I supports the protection of life and property within the Durango Fire Protection District through comprehensive fire prevention, inspection, plan review, permitting, and fire investigation activities. This position works under the direction of the Fire Marshal and collaborates with internal staff, partner agencies, and the community to ensure compliance with adopted fire and life safety codes.

Full Job description (below): 

Deputy Fire Marshal I 1-2026.docx

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Follows the Organization’s Mission, Values, and Departmental Expectations
  • Reviews submitted plans for fire and life safety code compliance
  • Performs plan reviews for commercial and residential fire sprinkler systems and commercial fire alarm systems
  • Conducts and assists with onsite fire inspections and code compliance assignments in accordance with adopted local, state, and federal codes
  • Determines compliance of fire sprinkler and fire alarm plans with prescriptive and performance-based code requirements
  • Issues permits for fire protection systems and special events
  • Performs fire investigations, including wildfire investigations, and conducts peer reviews of fire investigation reports
  • Provides clear, professional written and verbal guidance to business owners, managers, and the public
  • Maintains accurate data, records, and documentation for assigned projects

OTHER DUTIES

  • Attends and participates in meetings and public events as assigned
  • Coordinates with outside agencies, contractors, architects, building officials, and members of the Fire Marshal Division
  • Follows District and Division SOPs and procedures
  • Notifies response crews of known or potential safety hazards through established communication channels
  • Maintains professional development through education, training, and conferences related to fire codes, inspections, and investigations
  • Balances education and enforcement of adopted fire codes
  • Makes recommendations for stop work orders, violation notices, and abatement of fire hazards in accordance with applicable codes and District guidelines

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to work independently with limited supervision
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills with a professional demeanor
  • Proficiency with computers, tablets, smartphones, and software used in the profession and by the District
  • Ability to interact positively and professionally with the public, including under stressful conditions
  • Ability to operate equipment used in inspections and investigations, including cameras, meters, measuring devices, hand and power tools, PPE, and suppression equipment
  • Ability to apply and document the scientific method to determine fire origin and cause
  • Understanding of fire behavior, fire patterns, and investigative techniques

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

  • ICC Plan Reviewer / Colorado Fire Inspector III – Plans Examiner
  • Youth Firesetter
  • Commercial Fire Alarm Plans Examiner II
  • Commercial Fire Sprinkler Plans Examiner
  • IAAI Fire Investigation Technician

In lieu of required certifications, equivalent or alternative certifications may be considered.

Preferred

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Eight (8) years in the fire service and/or four (4) years in a code enforcement-related field

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical demands include, but are not limited to:

  • Ability to climb ladders and stairs
  • Ability to lift, push, and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to bend, stoop, reach, grasp, and carry objects
  • Ability to stand, sit, or walk for up to 60 minutes at a time
  • Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate office and inspection equipment
  • Ability to read printed materials and computer monitors
  • Ability to hear and communicate effectively in person and by telephone
  • Ability to operate a District vehicle
  • Compliance with the District’s wellness, fitness, and PPE requirements

POSITION DETAILS & COMPENSATION

This is a full-time, benefit-eligible, hourly, non-exempt position working a 40-hour, Monday–Friday schedule. This position participates in a rotating weekly on-call schedule for fire investigations.

  • Residency requirement: Must reside within a 40-minute response time of DFPD Administration Office (103 Sheppard Drive)

HOW TO APPLY

To be considered for this position, please submit the following to Taylor at Taylor.Arnold@Durangofire.org 

This position will remain open until filled. Interviews will be scheduled with qualified applicants following review of application materials.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation and drug screening.