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Backflow Testing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Backflow Testing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$18

$29

$40

How much do backflow testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Backflow Testing jobs in Chicago, IL? For Backflow Testing jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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:
Plumbing Inspector (Union-AFSCME)

Plumbing Inspector (Union-AFSCME)

City of Evanston

Evanston, IL • On-site

$39.62 - $50.92/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 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).