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Backflow Testing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Certification as Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester * Certification as Backflow Prevention Assembly Repairer * Experience with Maximo or other Computerized Maintenance Management System * Experience ...

Responsibilities include: testing, diagnosing, repairing, and installing plumbing systems and ... Backflow certification a plus! * A driven work ethic with the willingness to learn and grow * Must ...

Construction Coordinator I

Glenview, IL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

The role oversees all aspects of construction, including inspection, installation, testing ... services, backflow devises and customer services. Coordinates service installation with the ...

Backflow Testing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$18

$29

$40

How much do backflow testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for backflow testing in Chicago, IL is $29.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $32.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into backflow testing?

To become a backflow tester, you typically need to complete a state-approved training program and obtain a certification or license, which demonstrates knowledge of plumbing codes and backflow prevention devices. Gaining experience with plumbing tools and systems is also beneficial, and some states require ongoing education to maintain certification. Employment often involves working for plumbing or water utility companies, with a focus on safety and technical skills.

How hard is it to get your backflow certification?

Obtaining a backflow testing certification typically involves completing a state-approved training course, passing a written exam, and gaining practical experience. The process can take several weeks to months depending on the program and scheduling, and maintaining certification often requires ongoing education. Having technical skills and familiarity with plumbing systems is also beneficial.

Is backflow certification worth it?

Backflow testing professionals often pursue certification to demonstrate their knowledge of plumbing codes and safety standards, which can improve job prospects and credibility. Certification may be required by local regulations and helps ensure proper testing and maintenance of backflow prevention devices. Having certification can lead to higher earning potential and more job opportunities in the field.

How much do backflow testers make?

Backflow testers in Florida typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the systems they test. The job often requires certification and knowledge of local plumbing codes, with opportunities for overtime and additional pay for specialized skills.

What is the difference between Backflow Testing vs Backflow Prevention Installer?

AspectBackflow TestingBackflow Prevention Installer
CertificationsCross-Connection Control Tester CertificationBackflow Prevention Assembly Certification
Work EnvironmentInspecting and testing backflow prevention devicesInstalling and repairing backflow prevention devices
Industry UsagePerformed by licensed testers to ensure device functionalityPerforms installation and maintenance of backflow preventers

Backflow Testing involves inspecting and testing existing backflow prevention devices to ensure they function correctly, while Backflow Prevention Installers focus on installing and maintaining these devices. Both roles require specific certifications and work closely within the same industry to protect water quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Backflow Tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backflow Tester, you need a solid understanding of plumbing systems, water safety regulations, and typically a certification in backflow prevention testing. Familiarity with backflow testing equipment, digital reporting tools, and knowledge of local codes are essential for accurate inspections. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong communication skills help ensure issues are correctly identified and explained to clients. These skills and qualifications are crucial to maintain public health, comply with legal requirements, and build trust with customers.

What is backflow testing?

Backflow testing is the process of checking a plumbing system’s backflow prevention device to ensure it is functioning correctly and preventing contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply. This is crucial for maintaining water safety in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Certified professionals use specialized equipment to test the device, and most local regulations require annual testing to comply with health standards. Regular backflow testing helps protect public health by preventing cross-contamination of drinking water.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by backflow testers in the field?

Backflow testers often encounter challenges such as accessing hard-to-reach or poorly maintained backflow prevention devices, which can be located in confined spaces, underground, or exposed to the elements. Weather conditions and equipment malfunctions can also impact the accuracy and safety of tests. Additionally, testers must frequently coordinate with property owners or facility managers to schedule inspections and ensure compliance with local regulations. Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability are essential for overcoming these obstacles and maintaining high standards of safety and service.
What job categories do people searching Backflow Testing jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Backflow Testing jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Backflow Testing job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,593 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
Plumber - Winter 2027

Plumber - Winter 2027

Pae

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Amentum is a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology solutions, trusted by the United States and its allies to address their most significant and complex challenges in science,securityand sustainability. Our people apply undaunted curiosity, relentlessambitionand boundless imagination to challenge convention and drive progress. Our commitments are underpinned by the belief that safety,collaborationand well-being are integral to success.

Summary:

Seasonal Contract position supporting the National Science Foundation managed United States Antarctic Program as part of the Antarctic Support Contract (ASC).Plumbers will performplumbingmaintenance or construction tasking, or any combination thereof, under the supervision of thePlumbing Foreman. Tasking is based on ASC schedule requirements.

Position Responsibilities(not all inclusive):

  • Perform cutting, fitting, connection, and installation of plumbing piping, equipment, fixtures, and systems in compliance with the Uniform Plumbing Code

  • Diagnose, repair, and perform scheduled Preventative Maintenance on existing plumbing systems, equipment, fixtures, and infrastructure

  • Maintain various plumbing systems both inside and outside of buildings

  • Timely response to emergency service calls during and outside of normal working hours

  • Accurate and thorough documentation of hours worked, tasking performed, materials used, and processes involved

  • Adviseimmediate Supervisor of job progress and material/labor requirements

  • Accomplish tasking working from Job Plans, verbal information, schematics, blueprints, wiring diagrams, documents, vendor/manufacturer manuals, and applicable specifications and codes.

  • Follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), suggest revisions as needed, and create SOPs as directed

  • Perform tasking outdoors in environmentally challenging conditions including wind and extremecold weather

  • Use soliddecision-makingability and sound judgment tosafely and effectively solve problems

  • Proactivelyidentifyany unsafe conditions or hazards and communicate them effectively

  • Work directly with other departments to plan and complete tasking

  • Learn and usecomputer-basedlabor, material, and maintenance tracking applications

  • May deploy to remote research support facilities for day trips or extended periods (McMurdo only)

  • Occasionallyutilizetheassistanceof other station personnel to complete tasking, orassistother trades or departments with their tasking

  • Comply withall ASC Environmental, Safety and Health (ESH), Waste Management and Quality Assurance requirements

  • Participate in Work Center Safety Program and ASC safety objectives

  • Participate in community programs such as "house-mouse" (chores), "daisy-picking" (station clean-up), "GASH" (galley clean-up at Palmer), and recycling efforts

  • Perform other duties asrequired

Required Education, Experience, Certificates and Licenses:

  • High School diploma orGED

  • A current Journeyman Plumber license (8,000 hour),a current Master Plumber license, or equivalentUnion membership in good standing.

  • Minimum four years of documented experience in all phases of the plumbing trade including piping, fixture installation, and service and repair of plumbing systems

Expected Skills and Competencies:

  • Knowledge of the principles of plumbing and the current Uniform Plumbing Code

  • Ability to diagnose,maintain, adjust, repair, and replace plumbing systems and components

  • Ability to read and interpret design drawings, specifications, and drawings

  • Possess prior computer experience and be able and willing to learn and effectivelyutilizecomputer-based labor, inventory, and maintenance tracking applications

  • Possess the competencies,willingnessand ability to perform the duties of position

Preferred:

  • Experience working with a variety of pipematerials and fittingssuch as:copper, PEX, PVC, Galvanized Steel, Black Iron, Glass-fiber Reinforced Epoxy (GRE), High DensityPolyethylene(HDPE)

  • Experience with installation, repair, and maintenance of hydronic piping systems

  • Experience in construction and maintenance of commercial and/or industrial facilities

  • Certification as Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester

  • Certification as Backflow Prevention Assembly Repairer

  • Experience with Maximo or other Computerized Maintenance Management System

  • Experience with Microsoft Office Suite

Physical and/or Other Requirements:

  • Willingness and ability to deploy to Antarctica for extended periods

  • Successful completion of Medical and Dental examinations required by the NSF for deployment to Antarctica

  • Successful completion of drug screening and background check required by employer

  • Successful completion of Federal Background Check required by the NSF

  • Must be willing and able to lift and move items, parts, assemblies, and equipment up to the safety regulation maximum as required by the position.

  • Must be willing and able to perform physical activities including heavy lifting, climbing in and out of equipment, crawling, and working outdoors in extreme cold as required by the position.

  • Mustparticipatein community programs, such as "house-mouse" (chores), "daisy-picking" (cleaning-up around the station), recycling efforts & safetyobjectives.

  • Valid Driver's License issued in the United States

  • No clearance requirement but the contract and/or the site requires US Citizenship to be approved for access. (includes NACI / T1, MRPT, CAC): Must be able to obtain andmaintainfacility credentials/authorization. Note: US Citizenship isrequiredfor facility credentials/authorization at this work location.

Safety- Amentum enforces a safety culture whereby all employees have the responsibility for continuously developing andmaintaininga safe work environment. Asappropriate, each employeeis responsible forcompleting all training requirements and fulfilling all self-aid/buddyaid responsibilities,participatingin emergency response tasks, and serving on safety committees and teams.

Quality- Quality is the foundation for the management of our business and the keystone to our goal of customer satisfaction. It is our policy to consistently provide services that meet customer expectations.Accordingly, each employee must conform to the Amentum Quality Policy and carry out job activities in compliance with applicable Amentum Quality System documents and customer contracts. Each employee must read and understand his/her Quality Management and Customer Satisfaction responsibilities.

Procedure Compliance- Each employee must read, understand, and implement the general and specific operational, safety, quality and environmental requirements of all plans, procedures and policiespertaining tojob.