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County Health Inspector Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

PLUMBING INSPECTOR

IL · On-site

$26.82/hr

Performs inspections of new buildings constructed within county jurisdiction to ensure compliance ... Complete health insurance benefits package with Medical & Prescription, HSA & FSA, Dental and ...

Building Inspector

Huntley, IL · On-site

$72K - $94K/yr

... northern Kane County, is seeking applicants for the position of Building Inspector in the ... Click to review the Village's Health Insurance Benefits Listing and Rates page on the Village ...

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Showing results 1-20

County Health Inspector information

See Illinois salary details

$23.7K

$53.2K

$95.9K

How much do county health inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for county health inspector in Illinois is $53,237.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,300.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a county health inspector?

County Health Inspectors are public health professionals responsible for ensuring that businesses like restaurants, grocery stores, and public facilities comply with local and state health regulations. They conduct regular inspections to check for cleanliness, proper food handling, and safety practices to prevent health hazards and disease outbreaks. If violations are found, they may issue warnings, fines, or even shut down establishments until issues are corrected. County Health Inspectors also educate business owners and the public about health standards and safe practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a county health inspector?

To thrive as a County Health Inspector, you need a strong understanding of public health regulations, environmental science, and inspection procedures, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in environmental health or a related field. Familiarity with inspection software, data collection tools, and sometimes state or national certification (such as REHS/RS) is often required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors navigate complex situations and educate the public. These competencies are crucial for ensuring community health standards are met and public safety risks are minimized.

What are some common challenges faced by county health inspectors during inspections, and how can they be addressed?

County Health Inspectors often encounter challenges such as uncooperative facility staff, incomplete documentation, or identifying subtle violations that could impact public health. To address these, inspectors rely on clear communication, professionalism, and a strong understanding of local health codes. Building rapport with business owners and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of regulations helps ensure compliance while fostering a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

What is the difference between County Health Inspector vs Food Safety Inspector?

AspectCounty Health InspectorFood Safety Inspector
Required CredentialsEnvironmental health license, state certificationFood safety certification, state or federal training
Work EnvironmentLocal government offices, inspection sites at restaurants, food facilitiesFood production facilities, restaurants, retail food establishments
Employer & IndustryCounty or city health departments, local governmentFood industry, regulatory agencies, health departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both County Health Inspectors and Food Safety Inspectors focus on food safety and sanitation, often working within local government or food industry settings. While their roles overlap, County Health Inspectors typically have broader responsibilities in environmental health, whereas Food Safety Inspectors specialize specifically in food safety compliance. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in public health and food regulation.

How do you become a county health inspector?

To become a county health inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in environmental health, public health, or a related field. Certification as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) or similar credential is often required or preferred, and inspectors must pass relevant licensing exams. Additionally, on-the-job training and knowledge of health codes, sanitation practices, and inspection procedures are essential.

How much do county health inspectors get paid?

County health inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the size of the county and the inspector's level of expertise, with some earning over $60,000 in higher-paying regions.

Is it hard to become a county health inspector?

Becoming a county health inspector typically requires completing relevant education such as a degree in environmental health or a related field, and obtaining certification from a recognized agency. The process involves passing exams, gaining experience, and sometimes meeting state-specific licensing requirements, making it moderately challenging for some candidates.

Is there a demand for county health inspectors?

County health inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing public health needs and regulatory requirements. Employment opportunities are often available in local government agencies, especially in areas with active food service, sanitation, and health inspection programs, and typically require relevant certifications and knowledge of health codes.
Infographic showing various County Health Inspector job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,237 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Environmental Health Program Specialist

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$32.04/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

General Description The Environmental Health Program Specialist is a valuable member of our Environmental health team who with minimal supervision by an Environmental Health (EH) Program Coordinator(s) or Deputy Director, performs office and field work to facilitate the designated EH Program through the issuance and coordination of permits and plans, and the maintenance of activities and policies related to the design and operation of facilities or components regulated by the Program to which he or she is assigned. Trains, advises and counsels environmental health staff in matters relating to solid waste, food safety, water wells and/or onsite wastewater treatment systems, including inspections and enforcement of ordinance provisions and/or other laws or regulations. May be assigned additional higher-level duties such as technology/software lead, or circuit court and administrative adjudication lead/liaison.

Scheduled Hours: 37.5 hours per week Essential Functions Conducts site visits, field inspections, educational presentations and investigations as part of routine duties. On a regular basis, consults with, and provides detailed information to industry professionals, co-workers, supervisors and the public. Completes reports, correspondence, logs and other required documentation related to the regulation of the Program

Conducts staff and industry training. Maintains positive and productive relationships with industry, other pertinent regulatory agencies and local officials. Analyzes data regarding the functioning of the Program, and assists Program Coordinator or Deputy Director to assure quality improvement within the Program.

Collects and analyzes samples under prescribed methods as required. Advises and counsels staff in matters relating to the Program including inspection, training and enforcement of ordinance provisions. Assists the Program Coordinator or Deputy Director in ensuring the Program continues to meet or exceed compliance with Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) or Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) rules and regulations, or contractual obligations.

Assists the Program Coordinator or Deputy Director in insuring consistency among staff in enforcing ordinance or other regulatory provisions. Participates in making recommendations that formulate program policies and procedures. Reviews for accuracy and consistency of the work of general staff.

As part of a Multidisciplinary Team, participates in joint reviews of proposed projects with relevant county, state, and federal agencies including but not limited to Lake County Planning, Building and Development, Lake County Storm Water Management Commission, Lake County Department of Public Works, Lake County Department of Transportation, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Army Corps of Engineers. Performs other duties as assigned. Knowledge Skills Abilities and Education Required Completion of a Bachelor's degree program from a university or recognized standing with major course work (minimum 30 semester hours) in Environmental Health, Biology, Chemistry or a relevant physical science or engineering discipline.

Two years of relevant experience in the regulation of food protection, water well, solid waste, and/or individual sewage disposal programs. A Master's degree in Public Health, Environmental Health, Public Administration, or a relevant biological or physical science or related field, is preferred, and may be substituted for one year of experience. Illinois Licensed Environmental Health Practitioner is required.

Possession of a valid Driver's License, supplemented by a satisfactory driving record. Supplemental Information As the largest human service provider in Lake County, we believe that services must be available without barriers. No residents are turned away due to the inability to pay.

We believe in providing services in an environment of mutual respect, free of discrimination or bias. Whether assuring accessible and effective care, impacting policy, or assessing and monitoring risks, the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center has been an essential part of the public health system in Lake County for 60 years. We are looking for passionate, qualified team members who can help make a difference in our agency and, most importantly, in our community.

Additional information about the Lake County Health Department, our culture, and why you should join our team can be found at https://lakecountyil.attract.neogov.com/health-department. At this time, you must live in Illinois or Wisconsin to be eligible to work at Lake County Health Department. You can find our salary grades at https://www.lakecountyil.gov/4515/Salary-Grades

For unionized positions, a list of our collective bargaining agreements can be found here: https://www.lakecountyil.gov/2686/Collective-Bargaining-Agreements. Any offer of employment is conditioned on the successful completion of a background screening, drug and alcohol testing and may include a pre-employment medical exam. The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other protected characteristics.