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Backflow Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Maintain organized records for all facility-related inspections and compliance requirements, including fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, backflow prevention devices, HVAC certifications, X-ray ...

Maintain organized records for all facility-related inspections and compliance requirements, including fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, backflow prevention devices, HVAC certifications, X-ray ...

Backflow Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.2K

$56.6K

$102K

How much do backflow inspector jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for backflow inspector in Chicago, IL is $56,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $65,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Backflow Inspector job?

A Backflow Inspector is responsible for testing and inspecting backflow prevention devices to ensure they function properly and prevent contaminated water from flowing into clean water supplies. They work with commercial, residential, and industrial plumbing systems to comply with local and state regulations. Inspectors may also perform repairs, maintain records, and educate property owners on backflow prevention requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Backflow Inspector position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backflow Inspector, you need knowledge of plumbing systems, a solid understanding of local and national backflow prevention regulations, and, in many areas, a certification such as ASSE Backflow Prevention Tester. Familiarity with testing devices, digital inspection tools, and reporting software is also crucial. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and professionalism help inspectors effectively interact with property owners and document findings. These skills ensure water safety compliance and the prevention of contamination in public water systems.

What does a typical day look like for a Backflow Inspector?

A typical day for a Backflow Inspector involves traveling to various residential, commercial, or industrial sites to conduct inspections of backflow prevention assemblies. Inspectors perform annual tests, troubleshoot potential issues, document compliance, and prepare detailed reports for both clients and local authorities. Collaboration with property owners, plumbing contractors, and municipal officials is common, as inspectors may need to explain test results or recommend necessary repairs. The work can be both independent and team-oriented, and schedules may vary based on inspection demands and municipal deadlines.
What are popular job titles related to Backflow Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Backflow Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Backflow Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,595 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Plumbing Inspector (Union-AFSCME)

Plumbing Inspector (Union-AFSCME)

City of Evanston

Evanston, IL • On-site

$39.62 - $50.92/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Public Works/Plumbing Inspector
Date Posted:
9/8/2022
Location:
Water Plant
Date Available:
TBD
Closing Date:
Open Until FilledSalary Range: $39.616 - $50.925/hour*
37.5 hours/week

*Starting salary is dependent upon qualifications, but in most cases is no higher than the midpoint for range.
NATURE OF WORK:
This is a strong customer service oriented position that administers the City's Cross Connection Control Program, Storm Water Control System Inspections and represents the Water Production Bureau's interests in the installation of various equipment that impacts the Water Distribution System and Sewer Conveyance System. The work also involves maintaining written reports on inspections and entering the data into the City's computerized tracking system.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Specific assignment will include some or all of the following):
  • Maintains the City's Cross Connection Control Program and tracks citywide compliance. Inspects residential, institutional, commercial, and industrial plumbing systems for conformance with the Cross Connection Control Ordinance and other laws and codes and approved plans and specifications, and provides contractors or owners with written Field Inspection Reports.
  • Inspects water-supply systems, drainage and sewer systems, water coolant air conditioning systems, fire sprinkler systems, approved backflow prevention devices, required bracing, ventilation, air-and-water-tightness, and thorough penetration fire stopping systems.
  • Reviews plumbing permit applications and provides information into the permit tracking system on Water & Sewer Fees.
  • Performs initial and annual inspections of all storm water detention facilities and monitors the completion of same.
  • Represents the Water Production Bureau at the Design and Project Review (DAPR) Committee.
  • Assists in the inspection of new connections to the water distribution system and sewer conveyance system and disconnections of same.
  • Inspects and monitors the installation of new water main and water services to insure appropriate chlorination and pressure testing is completed prior to being placed in service. Locate and insure the removal of "Dead End" piping within the City Distribution System.
  • Reviews complaints concerning alleged violations of the plumbing code, gathers evidence, issues tickets and appears in court as witness.
  • Keeps records of inspections performed, and corrections recommended and secured. Enters inspection results and complaints into City's computerized permit tracking system.
  • Upon return, test and repair RPZs installed on temporary use hydrant carts.
  • Performs duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:
  • Must possess a high school diploma, GED, or higher.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and a safe driving record.
  • Must possess a valid State of Illinois Plumber's License and maintain it as a condition of employment.
  • Must possess five (5) or more years of work experience as a licensed plumber, preferably supplemented with knowledge of mechanical systems.
  • Must possess an Illinois Environmental Protection Agency License for Cross Connection Control Device Inspector or must be willing and able to obtain it within 6 months of employment and maintain it as a condition of employment.
  • Must possess an Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Class C Public Water Supply Operator Certificate or must be willing and able to obtain it within 30 months of employment and maintain it as a condition of employment.
  • Must possess an NPDES MS4 Stormwater Inspector's License or must be willing and able to obtain it within 12 months of employment and maintain it as a condition of employment.
  • Must be willing and able to obtain National Incident Management System ICS 100 and 200 and FEMA 700 certifications within 18 months of employment and maintain them as a condition of employment.
  • Knowledge, skills, and abilities in the following areas:
    • Familiarity with utilizing cloud based backflow tracking systems.
    • Considerable hands-on plumbing and code knowledge.
    • Ability to interpret and apply plumbing codes in a variety of situations, including but not limited to commercial, residential, etc.
    • Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions; to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagrammatic form; deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
    • Ability to perform deductive axiomatic geometry, plane and solid, and rectangular coordinates.
    • Ability to use practical application of fractions, percentages, ratio and proportion, measuration, logarithms, slide rule, practical algebra, geometric constructions, and essentials of trigonometry.
    • Ability to read periodicals, professional journals, manuals, dictionaries, thesauruses, and encyclopedias, blueprints/building plans, municipal codes and ordinances.
    • Ability to prepare business letters, summaries, plan reviews and reports, inspection records, and court documents when necessary.
    • Ability to speak on professional matters to a variety of people including, but not limited to citizens, contractors, co-workers, etc., relating to inspections and plan reviews performed during the course of business in order to identify deficiencies, etc., so that the appropriate corrections can be made in compliance with any/all municipal codes and professional regulations.
    • Familiarity with the 2003 International Plumbing Code and the current edition of the State of Illinois Plumbing Code. Extensive knowledge of the current State of Illinois Plumbing Code and familiarity with Illinois Administrative Code Title 35, (225 ILCS 320/) Illinois Plumbing License Law and 2003 International Plumbing Code.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:
Ability to lift medium weight objects, open and close building windows and doors, apply pressure to building components as part of inspection. Ability to use and operate inspection tools and equipment. Ability to work indoors with possible exposure to human, animal and rodent fecal matter; rodents and pests; inadequate ventilation, lack of light, filth and other unsanitary conditions. Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. Ability to perform moderate manual work daily including sitting, standing, walking, bending, stooping and climbing. Smelling-distinguishing, with a degree of accuracy, differences or similarities in intensity or quality of odors, or recognizing particular odors, using the nose. Ability to focus on small and distant objects, recognize depth of objects, stand for long periods of time, work outdoors at night with reduced lighting, talk and hear. Ability to use machines, tools, equipment, and work aids of those commonly associated with this type of work including but not limited to automobile, flashlight, room thermometer, cellular telephone, code books, tape recorder, personal computer, software, measuring devices, hammer, screw driver, shovel, awl, camera, electrical devices, protection devices.
SUPERVISION:
The employee is supervised by the Water Production Bureau Chief. Employee is responsible for completing work according to City work rules and safety regulations.
PUBLIC CONTACT:
The employee has daily contact with other City employees, residents, property owners, agents, and contractors. Employee will work with other departments. Excellent customer service skills are paramount.
Chosen candidates will be required to provide proof of licenses, certifications, and education required for this position. Candidates will also be subject to qualifying pre-employment processes, including medical examination, drug/alcohol screen, employment verification, and criminal background check.
The City of Evanston is an equal opportunity employer and ensures against discrimination in employment on the basis of a person's race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, military discharge status, source of income, housing status, or gender identity. The City of Evanston is also committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Any person needing mobility or communications access assistance should contact Human Resources at 847-448-8204 (voice) or 847-866-5095 (TTY).