Fire Marshal Deputy (South Central / Southwest Nebraska)

The work we do matters!

Hiring Agency:

Fire Marshal - Agency 21

Location:

Statewide, NE

Hiring Rate:

$24.940

Job Posting:

JR2025-00012857 Fire Marshal Deputy (South Central / Southwest Nebraska) (Open)

Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed):

Job Description:

The Nebraska State Fire Marshal currently has one open position for a Fire Investigator located within South Central/Southwestern Nebraska. The position requires residency to be located within the following Nebraska geographic area(s): in an area from Kearney to Lexington to Holdrege or as determined by the Agency. Under general supervision the position will enforce all state laws relating to the suppression of arson, conduct investigations of cause, origin, and circumstances of fires, and perform related work as required. Candidate must successfully complete the Nebraska Law Enforcement certification program within a time frame established by the Investigations Chief, if not already certified.

This position will be subject to a minimum nine-month probationary period commencing on the date of hire. A condition of moving out of probationary status will be residing in one of the counties noted above, attaining Special State Sheriff Credentials, as well as good performance and attendance / punctuality.

This position is subject to on-call and may be required to work weekends, holidays, and hours other than 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Requires work under adverse weather conditions and some travel with overnight lodging.

 

Job duties

1. Incident Response: Respond to emergencies, and incidents related to fire, explosions, and public safety. Provide assistance during natural disasters, such as wildfires or floods, collaborating with other agencies to safeguard human life and protect property from the ravages of fire.

2. Investigations and Prosecution: Investigate fires for origin and cause, circumstances, and the possibility of arson. Investigate post-blast explosion incidents and consumer and display fireworks violations. Gather evidence and file comprehensive reports for court appearances relating to fire/explosion offenses, including arson and insurance fraud cases. Collaborate with legal authorities, testify in court proceedings, and provide information to the prosecution in fire-related cases. Serve as witness in civil litigation related to fire scene examinations.

3. Collaborative Initiatives: Foster positive relationships with fire departments, law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, private investigation firms, fire victims and community stakeholders. Participate in joint operations, interagency collaborations, and community events to address fire related issues, build partnerships, and enhance public trust.

4. Administrative Duties: Prepare and submit accurate reports regarding all investigations, maintain accurate records and evidence, handle and use equipment, and manage administrative tasks related to job functions. Ensure adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and guidelines for effective fire and explosion investigations.

Requirements/Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Training or experience in fire service, fire science, building construction, code enforcement, regulation enforcement, engineering or architecture AND a valid driver’s license or the ability to provide independent authorized transportation. Some positions in this class may require law enforcement certification.

Preferred Qualifications:

Education: Possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Preferred: A college degree in a relevant field such as fire science, criminal justice, engineering, chemistry, electrical engineering, public administration, forensic science, forensic psychology is highly desirable.

Experience: Prior experience in the fire service, law enforcement, fire code enforcement, building construction and related fields is preferred. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency will conduct a complete and thorough background investigation on each applicant that receives a conditional offer of employment. Applicants are also required to complete a psychological and medical examination, pass the physical fitness standards set by the Nebraska Crime Commission, and pass the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) test. Law enforcement certification standards are set by state statute 81-1410 and Title 79 Chapter 8 of Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice rules and regulations that contains specific information. You may view these rules and regulations on the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center / Crime Commissions website. Law Enforcement Training: Completion of a certified law enforcement academy or equivalent training program is required. Familiarity with State of Nebraska fire laws, regulations, and policies is essential.

Other: Regular and reliable attendance is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of fire behavior, fire suppression, and investigation procedures; structural design and construction; electrical wiring; codes regarding the storage, sale, and use of consumer and display fireworks.
• Apply the required knowledge to complete accurate, concise fire investigations including completing reports.
• Basic knowledge of evidence collection, investigation techniques, and courtroom procedures.
• Ability to work independently. Ability to communicate effectively with individuals and groups by in person, telephone, computer, email, or correspondence to exchange information and ideas. Understand and apply instructions.
• Ability to operate relevant equipment such as firearms, vehicles, and hand/power tools safely and proficiently.
• Establish and maintain good working relationships. Be self-motivated and work independently with limited supervision.
• Physical fitness and the ability to work in outdoor environments under various weather conditions.

 

Benefits

Look at what we have to offer! 
• 13 paid holidays 
• Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately 
• Military leave  
• 156% (that's not a typo!) state-matched retirement  
• Tuition reimbursement  
• Employee assistance program 
• 79% employer paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans  
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy  
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government 
• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State 
• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service 
• Training and Development based on your career aspirations 
• Fun, inviting teammates  
• A safe and secure environment  

At the State, we stand by our core values of treating others with dignity and respect, acting ethically in all situations, and creating an environment where our customer is our top priority.  Apply to join our team today!

​ (Deputy State Fire Marshal benefits are through the Nebraska State Law Enforcement Bargaining Council (SLEBC))

 

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.

Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits

Equal Opportunity Statement

The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.

Current employees of the State of Nebraska should NOT apply on this external career. Instead go to Workday and access the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page.