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Electrical Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Inspect electrical equipment, wiring, fixtures, and other components to ensure they remain functional and are up to code, as well as to identify any hazards or issues. * Determine the reasons for any ...

The Electrical Technician is a field oriented technical resource to the maintenance and reliability ... Active member of the predictive maintenance team executing thermographic and other inspections

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Electrical Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$36

$54

How much do electrical inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for electrical inspector in Chicago, IL is $36.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.78 and $43.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electrical Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electrical Inspector, you need a solid understanding of electrical codes, wiring methods, and safety regulations, typically backed by a relevant technical degree or journeyman/master electrician license. Familiarity with inspection software, electrical testing equipment, and local or national electrical codebooks is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you identify issues and clearly report findings. These skills ensure electrical systems are safe, code-compliant, and reliable, protecting both property and public safety.

What is an electrician inspector?

An electrician inspector is a professional responsible for examining electrical systems and installations to ensure they comply with safety codes and regulations. They typically have specialized training, certifications, and knowledge of electrical standards, and conduct inspections in residential, commercial, or industrial settings.

What Does an Electrical Inspector Do?

The job duties of an electrical inspector revolve around working to inspect the wiring, electrical equipment, lighting, fuse boxes, and other elements of electrical infrastructure in a building. In this career, your responsibilities focus on ensuring that all electrical device components in a building meet minimum quality standards and safety requirements. You may work for a local or regional government agency, and you notify the agency and building owner of any violation or required improvements. An electrical inspector may also work for building owners or construction companies and audit the property to ensure that there are no regulation violations.

What is needed to become an electrical inspector?

To become an electrical inspector, candidates typically need a combination of relevant work experience in electrical installation or maintenance, a valid electrician license or certification, and specialized training or certification in electrical inspection. Many states or jurisdictions also require passing an exam and maintaining ongoing education to stay current with electrical codes and standards.

What is the difference between Electrical Inspector vs Electrical Technician?

AspectElectrical InspectorElectrical Technician
CertificationsTypically requires state or local electrical inspector licenses, certifications in electrical safety and code complianceOften requires technical certifications or associate degrees in electrical technology
Work EnvironmentInspects electrical systems in new construction, renovations, and existing buildings, often on-sitePerforms electrical installations, maintenance, and repairs, usually in industrial, commercial, or residential settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by government agencies, construction firms, and inspection agenciesEmployed by electrical contractors, manufacturing plants, and maintenance companies

Electrical Inspectors focus on ensuring electrical systems meet safety codes and regulations through inspections, while Electrical Technicians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems. Both roles require electrical knowledge but differ in responsibilities, certifications, and work environments.

Do electrical inspectors make more money than electricians?

Electrical inspectors generally earn higher salaries than electricians because they require additional certifications, such as building or electrical inspection licenses, and often have more responsibility for ensuring code compliance. Electricians typically perform installation and repair work, while inspectors focus on evaluating safety and adherence to regulations, which can influence salary differences.

What are some common challenges Electrical Inspectors face when working on large construction projects?

Electrical Inspectors on large construction projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating inspections with tight project schedules, ensuring all work adheres to evolving codes and standards, and effectively communicating findings with contractors and engineers. They must also be prepared to identify and resolve complex compliance issues, sometimes under pressure to minimize project delays. Building strong relationships with on-site teams and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of regulations can help inspectors navigate these challenges successfully.

What are Electrical Inspectors?

Electrical Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining electrical installations, systems, and equipment to ensure they comply with safety codes, regulations, and standards. They inspect new and existing wiring, outlets, panels, and other electrical components, typically during construction or renovation projects. Their role is crucial in preventing electrical hazards, ensuring safe operation, and verifying that all work meets local, state, and national codes. Electrical Inspectors may work for government agencies, municipalities, or private organizations.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Electrical inspectors who specialize in commercial or industrial facilities tend to earn higher salaries due to the complexity and safety requirements of these environments. Inspectors with advanced certifications, extensive experience, or those working in high-demand regions generally have higher earning potential.
What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Electrical Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Electrical Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Electrical Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Electrical Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Electrical Inspector job openings:

Electrical Control Technician

Village of Winnetka, IL

Winnetka, IL • On-site

$107K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Salary: $107,054.00 - $144,189.00 Annually
Location : Water & Electric Plant, Tower Road, Winnetka, IL
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 20260702
Department: Water & Electric
Opening Date: 07/02/2026
General Purpose
The Village of Winnetka's Water & Electric Department seeks applicants for a full-time Electrical Control Technician. The Control Technician inspects, tests, cleans, calibrates, installs, maintains, and repairs all electrical protection equipment and systems and their metering and interfaces at the Electric Plant, load centers, substations, and distribution facilities including motor protection, circuit protection, and generator protection. This position also engages in troubleshooting and repair of electrical protection equipment and systems used in the Water Plant and reservoir as needed.
Essential Functions:
  • Formulate and recommend maintenance, test procedures and standards; plan for equipment and material needs; schedule and perform activities to coordinate equipment outages and assure that all electrical protection equipment and systems are in proper working condition in accordance with local, state and federal requirements.
  • Maintain and interpret "as-built" diagrams and drawings of electrical systems at the Electric Plant, substations, and load centers.
  • Install, service, maintain, inspect, test, repair, replace, disassemble, adjust, and clean electrical and related equipment and relays used to protect and control functions of equipment such as, but not limited to, circuit breakers, transformers, capacitors, telemetry, automatic switches, supervisory control devices, and indicating and recording instruments, using hand tools.
  • Connect relay to test equipment and adjust controls to simulate operating conditions; observe ammeters, voltmeters, and related test equipment to determine proper relay functions, according to specifications; analyze test results to identify cause of malfunction or failure; replace parts, adjust electrical, thermal, and timing elements to calibrate relay, according to specifications.
  • Periodically inspect and test relays at functioning points; connect test apparatus to troubled circuit; analyze test results and interpret electrical diagrams to locate defective relay; open and close switches to isolate defective relay; and undertake repairs to prevent and remedy abnormal performance or failure of transmission and distribution lines and equipment.
  • Maintain relay protection settings records; periodically download existing protection settings and upload and implement new settings.
  • Test and repair switchboard and equipment circuitry, interpreting wiring diagrams to trace and connect numerous wires carrying current and voltage to independent functions.
  • Test insulators and bushings of equipment for power leakage, using testing apparatus and calculating insulation loss.
  • Inspect, test, and maintain voltage regulator controls, tighten connections, replace defective regulator parts, including motor controls, fuses, or capacitors.
  • Test circuits and equipment to evaluate factors, including insulation quality, analyze test data to determine performance characteristics of relays and effect of system modifications on relay performance; compute electrical characteristics, including impedance, power factor, and phase angle; determine whether equipment being tested or maintained is within the acceptable range of operation.
  • Service and repair storage batteries as power source for lighting purposes for switchgear.
  • Compile test result data, service reports indicating parts repaired or replaced, adjustments and corrections made, and related operational and maintenance records.
  • Recommend the ordering of replacement parts to replenish inventories.
  • Oversee and inspect the quality of work performed by outside contractors relative to electrical protection equipment.
  • Meet and confer daily with plant operators to evaluate plant operation.
  • Confer with other Village personnel, outside vendors, and other utilities regarding the scheduling of maintenance and repair activities, trouble shooting, parts, and new products and materials.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Desired Minimum Qualifications
  • Associates Degree, Trade, or Technical School.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field preferred.
  • Five (5) years' minimum work experience as a relay technician or apprentice relay technician.
  • Any equivalent combination of training, education, and/or experience.

Other Requirements
  • Read, clearly speak, and legibly write the English language.
  • General understanding of electrical engineering.
  • Ability to interpret electrical wiring diagrams and drawings.
  • Ability to troubleshoot, make recommendations, and prioritize system improvements.
  • Extensive knowledge of test equipment, electromechanical and solid state relays, meters, computers, communications equipment, and proper wiring methods and practices.
  • Knowledge of the maintenance and operation of medium voltage breakers.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of mathematical computation procedures including, basic math, and square roots.
  • Demonstrated proper knowledge of safe testing, maintenance, and repair techniques.
  • Considerable knowledge of the proper and safe use and application of tools, equipment, and hardware.
  • Valid Illinois driver's License.

Shifts are normally 8 hours in duration, 40 hours weekly, but may be extended in the event of emergency, personnel shortage, workload, or work in progress. The position may be required to work on some Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
While performing the duties of this job, work is sometimes required under adverse or unusual conditions such as cold, hot, wet, dark, dusty, noisy and cramped surroundings, in all weather conditions, and at all hours of the day. Work is frequently required in areas surrounded by energized electric power and control circuits. Must perform duties independently and as a team while tolerating extreme fluctuations in environmental working conditions.
Village of Winnetka
Position Range: $107,054 - $144,189 annual, DOQ.
For questions or assistance, please contact Ann Eriksson, Human Resources Manager, at (847) 716-3546 or aeriksson@winnetka.org.
Insurance Benefits Effective 1/1/2026
  • BlueCross BlueShield Health Insurance - PPO Plan 1 Highlights:
    • Deductible: $400 (per person, in-network)
    • Office Visit: $20
    • Co-Insurance: 90% (in-network), 70% (out-of-network)
    • Employee Rate (24 pay checks):
      • Employee Only: $65.57
      • Employee + 1: $131.14
      • Family: $187.21
  • BlueCross BlueShield Health Insurance - PPO Plan 2 Highlights:
    • Deductible: $5,600 (per person, in-network)
    • Office Visit: Deductible applies, then $0
    • Co-Insurance: 100% (in-network), 80% (out-of-network)
    • Employee Rate (24 pay checks):
      • Employee Only: $50.43
      • Employee + 1: $100.86
      • Family: $143.98
  • BlueCross BlueShield Health Insurance - HMO Highlights:
    • Deductible: Unlimited
    • Office Visit: $20
    • Co-Insurance: 100% (in-network)
    • Employee Rate (24 pay checks):
      • Employee Only: $46.31
      • Employee + 1: $92.65
      • Family: $132.22
  • Delta Dental PPO:
    • Deductible: $50 (per person)
    • Annual Maximum: $1,500 (per person)
    • Employee Rate (24 paychecks)
      • Single: $0
      • Employee + 1 Dependent: $20.63
      • Family: $47.23
  • EyeMed Vision Insurance:
    • Annual Eye Exam Co-pay: $0
    • Annual Frame Allowance: $200, plus 20% off the balance over $200
    • Annual Lens Allowance: $200
    • Employee Rate (24 paychecks)
      • Single: $0.00
      • Employee + 1 Dependent: $4.24
      • Family: $8.44
  • Securian Life Insurance:
    • All employees receive Village-paid basic term life coverage valued at 1x base salary and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services
    • Optional Life Insurance with Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Coverage for Employees, Spouses, and Children is available for purchase (100% Employee-Paid)
  • National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS):
    • Voluntary life insurance for Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) employees (optional for purchase)
  • Discovery Benefits Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA):
    • Pre-tax dollars the employee may allocate to pay for qualifying out-of-pocket medical, dental, and vision expenses and for the care of dependents
  • Securian Accident, Critical Illness, & Hospital Indemnity plans
Retirement Savings Plans
  • Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF):
    • Mandatory pension plan for non-sworn public employees.
    • Employees Contribute 4.5% of their wages bi-weekly (26 paychecks)
    • Voluntary Additional Contribution savings plan available
  • MissionSquare (ICMA) Retirement Corporation:
    • Optional 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (pre-tax savings)
    • Optional Roth 457 Plan (post-tax savings)
    • Optional Roth IRA Plan (post-tax savings)
  • Nationwide Retirement Solutions:
    • Optional 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (pre-tax savings)
Paid Leave
  • Sick Leave:
    • 12 sick days per year
    • Maximum sick leave accrual is 180 days
  • Vacation Earning Schedule:
    • 1st - 4th year: 10 days
    • 5th - 7th year: 1 additional day (14 days at 8th year)
    • 9th year: 15 days
    • 10th - 13th year: 1 additional day (20 days at 14th year)
    • 15th - 21st year: 21 days
    • 22nd year: 22 days
    • 23rd year: 23 days
    • 24th year: 24 days
    • 25th & subsequent: 25 days
    • Employees can carry over one year's earning of vacation days
  • Personal Days:
    • 5 personal days each calendar year (cannot be carried over year-to-year)
  • Village Holidays:
    • New Year's Day
    • Memorial Day
    • Independence Day
    • Labor Day
    • Thanksgiving Day
    • Day After Thanksgiving
    • Christmas Eve
    • Christmas Day
Other Benefits
  • Commuter Benefits
    • Employees utilizing public transportation to commute to work may use pre-tax dollars to pay for transit passes and qualifying rideshare expenses
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Professional Development

01
Describe your experience working with relays and electrical controls.
02
How did you learn of this position?
03
The Village of Winnetka is committed to remaining a Drug-Free Workplace. I understand the Village's pre-employment process involves drug testing (including cannabis) and the Village retains the right to rescind a conditional offer of employment due to a positive test result for cannabis.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question