Northern Arson Area Commander

Job Requisition ID: 54671 
Opening Date: 03/30/2026
Closing Date: 04/13/2026
Agency:Office of the State Fire Marshal
Class Title: PUBLIC SERVICE ADMINISTRATOR - 37015 
Skill Option: General Administration/Business Marketing/Labor/Personnel 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary Range $8,281 - $11,250 Monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Cook
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: None
Merit Comp Code: Supervisory Exclusion from RC063 Collective Bargaining Coverage

A resume is highly encouraged to evaluate your qualifications and skills as part of your application.  

Please attach a DETAILED Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application if you decide to provide one, and

a copy of any applicable professional licensures to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application if you decide to provide one.

Position Identification Number

54671

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Marketing Statement

The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional to serve as the Northern Arson Area Commander.  Under the direction of the Assistant Arson Division Director, this role involves performing highly responsible functions to effectively evaluate, organize, and execute all aspects of the Arson field program in the Northern Area of Illinois.  This pivotal position requires a dynamic leader capable of directing program goals, managing high-stakes investigations, and shaping legislative advocacy.  As an Arson Area Commander and employee of the State of Illinois, the selected candidate will have access to state healthcare, benefits, and a pension plan.  We invite all qualified applicants to apply to join the OSFM team.

Essential Function 2

• Under the guidance and direction of the Assistant Arson Division Director, develops Arson Division goals and objectives.
• Serves as full-line supervisor.
• Coordinates and participates in major arson investigations ensuring proper techniques are followed.
• Speaks before statewide conferences when requested.
• Provides technical assistance and suitable evidence to attorneys preparing arson cases for trial.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of college.
• Requires prior experience equivalent to three (3) years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a public or business organization.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prefers five (5) years of experience as an Arson Investigator.
• Prefers three (3) years of administrative experience conducting law enforcement investigations.
• Prefers at least three (3) years of supervisory experience, preferably in law enforcement or fire service.
• Prefers three (3) years of experience in the proper collection, maintenance, and storage of evidence.
• Prefers certification as a Lead Homicide Investigator through an accredited institution.
• Prefers certification as a Firearms Range Officer through an accredited institution.