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City Electrical Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

ELECTRICAL MECHANIC

Chicago, IL · On-site

$63.15/hr

Only employees currently in City job titles in this bargaining unit are eligible to bid. BID ... to inspect and test electrical installations and repair work for compliance with safety and ...

Lead and participate in meetings clients, state agencies, city agencies, utility service ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

Project Designer, Electrical

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Lead and participate in meetings clients, state agencies, city agencies, utility service ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

Project Designer, Electrical

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Lead and participate in meetings clients, state agencies, city agencies, utility service ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

... inspection, and safety for our location in Chicago, IL , or other major metropolitan areas within ... Build and sustain working relationships with state, city, and local agencies to ensure smooth ...

... inspection, and safety for our location in Chicago, IL , or other major metropolitan areas within ... Build and sustain working relationships with state, city, and local agencies to ensure smooth ...

... inspection, and safety for our location in Chicago, IL , or other major metropolitan areas within ... Build and sustain working relationships with state, city, and local agencies to ensure smooth ...

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City Electrical Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$35

$53

How much do city electrical inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for city electrical inspector in Chicago, IL is $35.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.73 and $43.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do city electrical inspectors make in Texas?

City electrical inspectors in Texas typically earn an average salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They inspect electrical systems to ensure compliance with safety codes and often require knowledge of local regulations and electrical codes.

Do city electrical inspectors make more than electricians?

City electrical inspectors typically earn higher salaries than electricians because they hold specialized certifications, perform regulatory oversight, and often have more experience. While electricians focus on installing and maintaining electrical systems, inspectors ensure compliance with codes, which can lead to higher pay scales depending on the region and level of responsibility.

What does a city electrical inspector do?

A City Electrical Inspector is responsible for reviewing and inspecting electrical installations in buildings to ensure they comply with local, state, and national electrical codes and safety regulations. They examine wiring, lighting, and electrical systems in new and existing structures, issue permits, and may investigate complaints or code violations. Their goal is to help ensure the safety of residents and property by preventing electrical hazards through thorough inspections and enforcement of standards.

What is the difference between City Electrical Inspector vs City Building Inspector?

AspectCity Electrical InspectorCity Building Inspector
CertificationsElectrical licenses, certifications in electrical codesBuilding codes, construction permits, general building certifications
Work EnvironmentInspecting electrical systems in new and existing buildingsInspecting overall building compliance, including structural and safety aspects
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, electrical contractors, construction firmsMunicipalities, construction companies, architectural firms

The City Electrical Inspector primarily focuses on electrical systems, ensuring compliance with electrical codes and safety standards. In contrast, the City Building Inspector oversees broader building safety, including structural, fire, and safety codes. Both roles are essential in maintaining building safety standards but differ in scope and specialized knowledge.

How to become a city electrical inspector?

To become a city electrical inspector, candidates typically need a combination of relevant education, such as a high school diploma or equivalent, and experience working as an electrician. Many jurisdictions require passing a licensing exam and obtaining certification from a recognized authority, along with knowledge of electrical codes and safety standards. Gaining experience in electrical installation and inspection helps qualify for this role, which often involves working with local building departments and adhering to code compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a city electrical inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a City Electrical Inspector, you need a thorough understanding of electrical codes, construction practices, and safety regulations, often backed by a relevant license or certification such as the ICC Electrical Inspector certification. Familiarity with inspection management software, electrical testing equipment, and digital reporting tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for interacting with contractors and ensuring compliance. These skills ensure that electrical systems are safe, code-compliant, and help protect public safety within the community.

What are some common challenges city electrical inspectors face during inspections, and how can they be addressed?

City Electrical Inspectors often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex building codes, addressing non-compliance issues with contractors, and managing a high volume of inspection requests. Staying up to date with local and national codes is essential, as is maintaining clear and respectful communication with property owners and construction teams. Inspectors can overcome these challenges by participating in ongoing professional development, being proactive in educating stakeholders about requirements, and prioritizing organization and time management in their daily workflow.
What are popular job titles related to City Electrical Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For City Electrical Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching City Electrical Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for City Electrical Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for City Electrical Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most City Electrical Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various City Electrical Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,839 per year, or $36 per hour.

ELECTRICAL MECHANIC

City of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$63.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

BID/JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
ELECTRICAL MECHANIC (UNIVERSAL)
Fleet & Facilities Management (2FM - Career Service)
Chicago Dept of Transportation (CDOT - Career Service)
Water Management (DWM - Career Service)
Chicago Dept of Aviation (CDA- Career Service)
Number of Positions: 21
( Additional vacancies available pending budget approval )
Starting Salary: $63.15/ Hourly
PLEASE NOTE: All of these vacancies have not been approved by the Budget Department. This information is included in this posting to help bidders make more informed decisions. A fewer or greater number of vacancies may be recognized during the period this list remains active.
These positions are open to the general public and to all current city employees covered under the terms of the City's collective bargaining agreement with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Union (IBEW) Local 134-(Bargaining Unit #32). Only employees currently in City job titles in this bargaining unit are eligible to bid.
BID INSTRUCTIONS: Apply on the bid site: https://chicago.taleo.net/careersection/103/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en
AND
1. Check the box on your profile titled "Currently employed by the City of Chicago"
2. Enter your employee ID (located on your pay stub labeled 'payee/employee number')
3. Select your correct bargaining unit
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL RESULT IN A REJECTED BID APPLICATION
Applications for this position will be accepted until 11:59pm CDT on 8/10/202 6
Under supervision, performs journey-level electrical work in the installation, repair, and maintenance of electrical wiring systems and equipment found in municipal bridges and bridge houses, airports, water purification plants, substations buildings, and viaducts , and performs related duties as required .
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
• Reads blueprints, specifications, and work orders to assess work required and to determine the proper installation and repair method to use
• Ensures adequate supplies of tools, equipment and materials are at work sites to complete jobs
• Performs electrical installations and maintains and repairs electrical wiring and equipment
• Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and test Telecommunication and High Voltage Electrical Systems and work on component level devices
• Starts, stops, maintains, and repairs large pump motors found in airport lift stations, water purification plants, and pumping stations
• Installs, maintains, and repairs lighting systems in airports' operations areas
• Install, program, troubleshoot and maintain Fire Alarm, CCTV, Access Control, Building Automation ( HVAC and Lighting) Voice/Data and Time Clock Management Systems
• Services and maintains electronic equipment used in emergency communications including dispatch console and data radio control equipment
• Tests and maintains telecommunications circuits to ensure proper systems operations
• Installs, maintains and performs bench repairs and optimization of portable and mobile radios and data terminals, automatic vehicle locator equipment, trunked radio systems and related equipment
• Uses specialized testing equipment to inspect and test electrical installations and repair work for compliance with safety and building code requirements
• Troubleshoot, test, repair, and install airfield lighting fixtures, signs, airfield designation signs, airfield in-surface and elevated lights, guard lights, and windsocks.
• Positions with an A card are regularly engaged in medium and high voltage installations and repairs (e.g., 480V - 4160V)
• Maintain and repair airport roadway traffic signals and associated controllers
• Install, maintain, and repair lighting in and around airport terminal buildings and outlying support buildings
• Prepares work activity reports
* Must be willing and able to climb ladders and stairs, enter and work in buildings which are in a state of great disrepair, in all weather conditions and in all neighborhoods throughout the City *.
Additional duties may be required for this position.
Location: Various
Days: Will vary
Hours: Various Shifts
THESE POSITIONS ARE IN THE CAREER SERVICE
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALFICATIONS
• Successful completion of a US Department of Labor registered Electrical Mechanic apprenticeship training program and journeyman status; OR should the above criteria not be fulfilled, the following options are available:
• Successful completion of an industry or company sponsored apprenticeship training program as an Electrical Mechanic, PLUS two (2) years of journey level work experience as an Electrical Mechanic
• Seven (7) years of journey level work experience as an Electrical Mechanic
Licensure, Certification, or Other Qualifications
• A valid State of Illinois driver's license is required
• Some positions may be required to obtain airfield certification
• Some positions may require a first-class FCC license
• Some positions may require status as a journeyman wireman and possess a valid A card
• Some positions must obtain advanced airfield certification within six months of appointment
• Some positions require the candidate selected for hire must pass an airport background check and a Security Threat Assessment (STA)
• Some positions require certification of Fire alarm, CCTV, Access Control, and Building Automation Systems within the first 6 months
Must have the permanent use of an automobile that is properly insured, including a clause specifically insuring the City of Chicago from accident liability.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
• Exposure to loud noise, fumes or dust
• Exposure to outdoor weather conditions
• May perform work using scaffolds and ladders
• Work performed above or below ground level
• Work performed using scaffolds and ladders
• Work performed using aerial lifts up to 100 feet
• Exposure to all areas and neighborhoods of the City of Chicago including movement and non-movement areas of airports
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Substantial lifting (up to 50 pounds) is required
• Ability to sit, stand and walk for extended periods of time
• Ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with one's body, arms, and/or legs
• Ability to climb staircases, ladders, and/or step stools
• Ability to operate applicable hand tools, power tools, and equipment
• Ability to tolerate heights while working
NOTE: RESUMES, CERTIFICATES, VALID JOURNEYMAN CARD, VALID A CARD, AND DRIVER'S LICENSE MUST BE SUBMITTED AT TIME OF APPLICATION WHERE APPLICABLE .
NOTE: To be considered for this position you must provide information about your educational background and your work experience. You must include job titles, dates of employment and specific job duties . (IF you are a current City employee, Acting Up cannot be considered). If you fail to provide this information at the time you submit your application, it will be incomplete, and you will not be considered for this position. There are three ways to provide the information: 1) you may attach a resume; 2) you may paste a resume; or 3) you can complete the online resume fields.
Educational & Employment Verification:
Please be advised that if you are selected to be hired you must provide, upon request, adequate information regarding your educational and employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position for which you are applying. If you received your degree internationally, all international transcripts/diploma must be accompanied by a Foreign Credential Evaluation. If the City of Chicago cannot verify this information, any offer extended to you will be withdrawn and you will not be hired.
NOTE: You must provide your valid U.S. driver's license at time of processing
SELECTION REQUIREMENTS
This is a non-interview, tested title. This position requires applicants to complete a written test / skills assessment. Test results will be sent out by the D epartment of Human Resources after test results have been analyzed and compiled. Applicants who receive a passing score on the test will be hired in lottery/random order. Bid applicants who receive a passing score will be selected in seniority order according to the collective bargaining agreement.
Preference will be given to external candidates possessing the following :
• Experience as a Journeyman level electrical mechanic
• Experience reading and interpreting blueprints and specifications
• Knowledge of electrical theory, practices and the electrical provisions of municipal building codes
• A City of Chicago Supervising Electrician License
• Proficient in Microsoft Office including Excel and Outlook
APPLICATION EVALUATION: Initial evaluation will be based on information provided on the application and the documents submitted. Department of Human Resource staff will review applications after the final posting date. Staff will follow any and all required Employment/Hiring Plan provisions, federal, state and local laws, and Collective Bargaining Agreements when applicable. Staff will apply hiring preferences as required by the municipal code. Placement on an eligibility list is not an offer or guarantee of an interview nor employment with the City of Chicago.
COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY: To further our commitment to hiring applicants with diverse experience the City of Chicago has adopted the following ordinances 2-74-020 and 2-74-075. The ordinances provide a preference to applicants who meet minimum qualifications and who are veterans of the Armed Forces, and/or residents of Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Areas (SEDA) and/or Chicago Public School (CPS) high school graduates to be referred to departments for consideration. These hiring preferences do not apply to bidders, as Collective Bargaining Agreements define the hiring process for bidders. For positions covered by a collective bargaining agreement, bidders will be considered before external candidates. To learn more about our hiring practices click here.
ALL REFERENCES TO POLITICAL SPONSORSHIP OR RECOMMENDATION MUST BE OMITTED FROM ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SUBMITTED FOR CITY EMPLOYMENT.
The City of Chicago in an Equal Employment Opportunity and Military Friendly Employer.
City of Chicago
Brandon Johnson, Mayor