Wildfire Ignition Investigator

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you’re looking for.

Position Summary

Responsible for conducting investigations related to wildfire and ignition events that may involve company infrastructure. This role involves conducting thorough investigations, collecting and analyzing evidence, and preparing detailed reports to support fire prevention and mitigation efforts through post-event Root Cause Analysis.

Essential Responsibilities

- Conduct on-site investigations to determine origin & cause of wildfires.

- Maintain site control and provide directions to Operations personnel.

- Work jointly with firefighters & other relevant individuals to gather information.

- Obtain witness statements.

- Build complete and accurate investigative files.

- Identify, collect, and preserve physical evidence from fire scenes.

- Collect electronic data and evidence related to the event.

- Document and analyze evidence collected during investigations.

- Ensure chain of custody is maintained on evidence collected.

- Analyze fire patterns, burn indicators, and other evidence to determine origin & cause.

- Document findings & prepare detailed report summarizing investigation results.

- Ensure findings are presented clearly and accurately.

- Review, update, and track data in a timely and efficient manner.

- Work closely with local, state, and federal fire agencies, and law enforcement.

- Provide specialized training to business units to ensure that responding personnel are knowledgeable of internal processes when an event occurs.

- Remain current with investigative techniques.

- Stay updated on the latest advancements in wildfire science, remote sensing technology, and GIS applications relevant to ignition analysis.

Minimum Requirements

- 1-3 years combined utility and/or fire investigation experience or equivalent required.

- Fire Investigation designation (INVF, CFEI, CFI, FIT), or other relevant certifications strongly desired.

- Ability to obtain minimum of FIT designation within 24 months.

- Knowledge of utility infrastructure and its potential impact on wildland fires strongly preferred.

- Knowledge of applicable systems: GIS, SharePoint, Microsoft applications.

- Knowledge of fire behavior.

- Ability to obtain FAA Part 107 Drone License if required.

- Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences.

- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.

- Travel to various locations to conduct investigations is required.

- Position requires exposure to noise, dirt, odors, confined/restricted areas, and adverse weather conditions.

- Availability to be on-call required.

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you’re ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Non-BargainingThe anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $71,900.00 to $94,600.00 per yearThis position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 01/19/26

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ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

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