Arson Investigator I

• Conducts a thorough search in the investigation of fires that are suspected of arson to determine the cause and origin of a fire.
• Examines the interior and exterior of buildings, cars, etc., for signs of forcible entry.
• Investigates the interior and exterior of buildings, cars, etc., for means of access.
• Creates photographs and videography of the fire scene, i.e. actual remains, debris, and bystanders.
• Determines the method, materials, motive, and malefactor of the arson.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

• Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of college which may include coursework in fire science, fire science administration, law, forensic science, criminal justice, or criminology.
• Requires successful completion of training as an Arson Investigator Trainee OR successful completion of a full-time law enforcement academy.
• Prefers three (3) or more years of professional experience as a criminal investigator, forensic fire investigator, or professional fire investigative experience.
• Prefers two (2) or more years of experience applying methods and techniques used in questioning of witnesses and suspects and collection, maintenance, and storage of physical evidence.
• Prefers certification as a Lead Homicide Investigator through an accredited institution.
• Prefers one (1) year of experience maintaining comprehensive data and investigation reports in the Bomb and Arson Tracking System (BATS).
• Prefers certification as an Evidence Technician through an accredited institution.
• Prefers two (2) years of experience in the utilization of Microsoft Office programs which include MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
• Requires a valid, appropriate, and current driver’s license and ability to pass drug screening.
• Requires the ability to pass a background check with self-disclosure of criminal history.
• Requires the ability to travel in performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate.
• Requires candidate to be a resident of the position county or a contingent county within six (6) months of employment.
• Requires the ability to qualify for a Firearm Owner Identification (FOID) card.
• Requires ability to satisfy all continuing education or recertification requirements mandated by statute, rule, or the OSFM.
• Requires ability to pass physical agility test at time of potential hire and an acceptable level of physical fitness be maintained in accordance with agency standards.
• Requires the ability to attend seminars, conferences, and trainings to stay current on methods, tools, ideologies, or other industry related topics relevant to the job duties.
• Requires the ability to pass an independent medical examination.
• Requires certification as a law enforcement officer from an accredited Illinois law enforcement academy.

Demonstrates expertise in fire investigation techniques, including the examination of fire scenes and evidence collection. Possesses strong analytical skills to determine the cause and origin of fires, along with effective communication abilities for interviewing witnesses and suspects.

• Arson Investigation
• Forensic Fire Investigation
• Evidence Collection
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Law Enforcement Certification

• Fire Scene Examination
• Investigation Reporting
• Data Maintenance
• Questioning Techniques
• Physical Evidence Storage

• Analytical Thinking
• Attention to Detail
• Communication Skills

• Lead Homicide Investigator
• Evidence Technician
• Law Enforcement Officer Certification

• Fire Science
• Criminal Justice
• Forensic Science
• Firearm Owner Identification (FOID)
• Continuing Education Requirements

• Bomb and Arson Tracking System (BATS)
• Photography
• Videography