City Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Description of Primary Purpose Primary Purpose: Supervise and perform skilled field inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, as well as property maintenance and fire prevention inspections, to ensure compliance with municipal codes and approvals. Provide senior-level technical expertise, mentoring, and training to inspection staff. Make independent decisions requiring technical judgment, interpretation of codes, and enforcement actions while maintaining strong customer service relationships.

Supervision Received: Receive direct supervision from the Building Division Manager and general supervision from senior management. Supervision Exercised: Supervise the work of building, fire prevention, and property maintenance inspectors and other staff as assigned.IMRF pension eligible position. 2080 hours annual

Expected hiring range: $37.87 -$52.40 hourly ($78,769.60 - $108,992.00 annual equivalency) 2026 Range Max: $56.80 hourly ($118,144 annual equivalency) Essential Duties and Responsibilities Supervise, assign, and prioritize the work of inspectors across building, property maintenance, fire prevention, life safety, elevator safety, and false alarm enforcement programs. Provide guidance on complex inspections, code interpretation, and enforcement actions. Mentor, train, and evaluate inspection staff

Review inspection reports and ensure quality control. Perform field inspections of buildings and structures under construction, alteration, or repair for compliance with building, fire, mechanical, electrical, zoning, and land use codes. Verify compliance with approved plans, Commission approvals, and City Council conditions.

Conduct joint inspections with Fire and Engineering staff as needed. Lead the most complex and sensitive inspections. Meet and correspond with architects, contractors, property owners, and residents regarding construction projects, compliance requirements, and inspection findings.

Coordinate with other City departments including Public Works, Planning, Fire, Finance, and Business Development. Address customer complaints and explain departmental policies. Prepare and maintain records of inspections, enforcement actions, and project status.

Support permit management by working closely with Customer Service staff on scheduling and reporting. Prepare reports for management on performance metrics, and opertational acitivies. Assist with budgeting and related planning for equipment and training needs.

Represent the City at administrative hearings and in court proceedings related to enforcement actions. Research and recommend code amendments. Assist at the customer service counter as needed.

Serve as Building Division Manager during absences. Attend meetings and training to maintain certifications. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Provide emergency inspection support during unusual or emergency situations. Education and Experience Required Minimum Qualifications: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education: Two-year college degree required, or high school diploma/GED with an equivalent combination of education, experience, and training. Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. Experience: Five to eight years of experience as an inspector, or an equivalent combination of certification, training, and experience in commercial and residential construction practices.

Supervisory experience in a municipal or governmental regulatory setting preferred. Experience as a Combination Inspector (building, electrical, and mechanical) preferred. Certification or License: Valid driver's license required.

International Code Council (ICC) certifications required, with ICC Certified Combination Inspector preferred. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Proficiencies: Knowledge of building, zoning, property maintenance, and fire prevention codes. Skill in conducting field inspections and applying codes to construction projects.

Ability to supervise, train, and evaluate inspection staff. Strong written and oral communication skills for interacting with residents, contractors, and design professionals. Ability to interpret and enforce codes firmly, fairly, and impartially.

Problem-solving skills with ability to identify alternative designs or solutions. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, mobile technology, and permitting databases. Commitment to customer service, professionalism, and integrity.

Supplemental Information Tools and Equipment Used: Use computers, tablets and software including Microsoft Office and permitting databases, Tyler EP&L, ESO, and Munis, and digital communication tools. Operate a motor vehicle, mobile phone, and standard office equipment. Use inspection tools and safety equipment as needed.

Physical Demands: Regularly sit, stand, walk, talk, and hear. Frequently handle documents, plans, and inspection equipment. Occasionally climb, stoop, kneel, or crawl during field inspections.

Must occasionally lift and move objects up to 40 pounds. Visual requirements include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Field work requires climbing ladders, navigating uneven terrain, and working in confined spaces or at heights.