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Elevator Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Our inspection services cover the US with more than 185 Qualified Elevator Inspectors (QEI). Our global team of industry veteran elevator and escalator consultants spans all of North America. As ...

Illinois - Summary Conducts a range of trade-specific inspections on elevators, escalators, mechanized walkways, and/or other lift machinery, verifying that the operation, construction, retrofit, or ...

Possession of current QEI (Qualified Elevator Inspector) certification OR Five years' experience in the elevator industry performing elevator inspections, service, repairs, and or testing of elevator ...

Possession of current QEI (Qualified Elevator Inspector) certification OR Five years' experience in the elevator industry performing elevator inspections, service, repairs, and or testing of elevator ...

Senior Inspector

Highland Park, IL · On-site

$78K - $118K/yr

... elevator safety, and false alarm enforcement programs. Provide guidance on complex inspections, code interpretation, and enforcement actions. Mentor, train, and evaluate inspection staff Review ...

Public agency documentation; including state elevator inspections, city backflows and alarm inspection certifications * Prepare and communicate emergency preparedness plans, site inspections ...

Public agency documentation; including state elevator inspections, city backflows and alarm inspection certifications * Prepare and communicate emergency preparedness plans, site inspections ...

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Showing results 1-20

Elevator Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.8K

$73.5K

$102K

How much do elevator inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for elevator inspector in Chicago, IL is $73,527.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $84,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Elevator Inspector vs Elevator Mechanic?

AspectElevator InspectorElevator Mechanic
CertificationsState-specific elevator inspector license, safety certificationsApprentice or journeyman license, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentRegulatory agencies, inspection sites, officesConstruction sites, maintenance facilities, buildings
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, inspection firmsConstruction companies, maintenance firms, building owners

Elevator Inspectors primarily focus on evaluating safety and compliance through inspections, while Elevator Mechanics are responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining elevators. Both roles require technical knowledge and certifications, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What are elevator inspectors?

Elevator inspectors are professionals responsible for examining and testing elevators, escalators, and other lifting devices to ensure they meet safety standards and code requirements. They conduct routine inspections, investigate accidents or malfunctions, and may also review installation or repair work. Their main goal is to ensure the safe operation of vertical transportation systems in buildings and protect public safety. Elevator inspectors usually work for government agencies, private inspection firms, or directly for building owners. They must be knowledgeable about local and national safety codes, mechanical systems, and sometimes electrical systems.

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

To thrive as an Elevator Inspector, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, knowledge of safety codes, and typically a relevant technical certification or licensing. Familiarity with inspection tools, diagnostic software, and regulatory compliance systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you identify issues and clearly report findings. These skills ensure elevators are safe, reliable, and compliant with legal standards, protecting public safety.

How hard is it to be an elevator inspector?

Becoming an elevator inspector requires completing specialized training, gaining knowledge of safety codes, and often obtaining certification or licensing. The job involves technical skills, attention to detail, and understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, which can make it challenging for some individuals. Experience in related fields such as maintenance or engineering can be beneficial.

What Does an Elevator Inspector Do?

An elevator inspector works to ensure that elevators are operating safely. In this career, you inspect them on occasion to make sure that all of the parts are working up to the standards necessary for optimal safety. You also do compliance checks when someone is installing new elevators to make sure that all new installations are following the standards, laws, and guidelines set by the locality. As an elevator inspector, you may also work with other types of lifts to ensure safety, such as escalators. You use your diverse knowledge of lifts and the associated laws to perform the job.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

Elevator inspectors with advanced certifications, extensive experience, and specialized skills tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors working in large urban areas or for private companies often have higher pay due to increased demand and complexity of inspections. Additionally, those who hold supervisory or managerial roles generally earn more than entry-level inspectors.

What are some common challenges faced by elevator inspectors on the job?

Elevator inspectors often encounter challenges such as accessing equipment in tight or high-traffic areas, staying updated on evolving safety codes, and accurately documenting findings under time constraints. They must also communicate effectively with building owners, maintenance personnel, and sometimes tenants, especially when addressing urgent safety issues. Working both independently and as part of a larger regulatory team, inspectors need to balance technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills to ensure public safety and compliance.

How to get a job as an elevator inspector?

To become an elevator inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in elevator safety and inspection. Many inspectors gain experience as elevator mechanics or technicians before obtaining state or local certification, which often involves passing written exams and demonstrating knowledge of safety codes and regulations.

How much does Qei certification cost?

The cost of QEI (Qualified Elevator Inspector) certification varies depending on the issuing organization and location, typically ranging from $300 to $600 for initial certification. Additional fees may apply for exams, renewals, and continuing education requirements necessary to maintain certification as an elevator inspector.
What are the most commonly searched types of Elevator Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Elevator Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Elevator Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Elevator Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Elevator Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Elevator Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Elevator Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Elevator Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Elevator Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,527 per year, or $35.3 per hour.
Elevator Inspector - Chicago

Elevator Inspector - Chicago

ATIS

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

The ATIS Group, with ATIS in the US and KJA in Canada, are the premier elevator and escalator consulting, management, and inspection businesses operating across North America.
Our inspection services cover the US with more than 185 Qualified Elevator Inspectors (QEI). Our global team of industry veteran elevator and escalator consultants spans all of North America.
As consultants we leverage our decades of industry experience to assist our clients in everything from engineering and designing new elevator installations to assessing existing equipment, determining the need for modernization, and managing maintenance and compliance.
With offices located throughout the US and Canada, we are well positioned to assist all clients, whether for a single elevator, or for a global corporation with thousands of devices.
Agility. Teamwork. Integrity. Service
Basic Purpose
The Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI) is responsible for performing complex, detailed inspections of new and existing conveyance systems, including elevators, escalators, moving walks, vertical platform lifts, stairway chairlifts, and dumbwaiters, to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local building and safety codes, as well as ASME standards and jurisdictional requirements.
This role is critical to ensuring public safety by identifying code violations, unsafe conditions, and operational deficiencies, and by enforcing corrective actions in accordance with regulatory requirements. The QEI conducts acceptance, annual, periodic, alteration, repair, and follow-up inspections; reviews testing procedures; witnesses required safety tests; and verifies that installations and modifications meet approved plans and current code standards.
In addition to technical inspection duties, the QEI investigates complaints and incidents involving conveyance equipment, documents findings, recommends necessary repairs or corrective measures, and ensures resolution to meet compliance standards. The inspector maintains thorough, accurate, and defensible inspection records in accordance with company policies and regulatory standards.
The QEI serves as a certified resource, interpreting and clearly communicating building and safety codes to contractors, mechanics, property owners, design professionals, and the general public. This role requires sound technical judgment, integrity, and professionalism, as well as the ability to balance the pressures of customer service while upholding the highest standards of safety, compliance, and ethical conduct.
Due to the critical nature of conveyance systems and the regulatory requirements of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), this position may require work outside of standard business hours, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends, to accommodate the scheduling requirements of the client, mandated inspection schedules, emergency response situations, or jurisdictional requirements. The QEI is eligible for overtime compensation in accordance with company policy, applicable labor regulations, and associated client contract terms.
Scope
The QEI contributes to operational effectiveness by ensuring accurate documentation, timely reporting, adherence to inspection schedules, and collaboration with internal teams, including field operations, safety and compliance, quality assurance, and client services. This role plays a key part in supporting the organization's commitment to safety, regulatory excellence, and continuous improvement.
Reporting and Working Relationships
This position will report to the Regional Inspection Supervisor or the Regional Field Operations Manager.
Primary Responsibilities (100%)
  • Perform inspections of conveyance systems, including elevators, escalators, moving walks, vertical platform lifts, stairway chairlifts, and dumbwaiters, to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local building and safety codes.
  • Conduct acceptance, annual, periodic, alteration, repair, and special inspections in accordance with applicable ASME standards and jurisdictional requirements.
  • Identify violations, deficiencies, and unsafe conditions; document findings thoroughly and accurately, including required corrective actions and recommendations.
  • Prepare and submit complete, timely inspection reports to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), property owners, and the appropriate internal office in accordance with company procedures.
  • Interpret and apply the intent of applicable codes and standards to ensure consistent and defensible compliance determinations.
  • Clearly and professionally communicate inspection findings, code requirements, and corrective actions to building owners, contractors, mechanics, and other stakeholders.
  • Provide clarification and technical guidance regarding code-related issues to contractor field personnel and clients.
  • Maintain consistent enforcement of adopted codes while upholding company standards of integrity, professionalism, and public safety.
  • Stay current on code updates, regulatory changes, and industry best practices affecting conveyance systems and inspections.
  • Complete all required continuing education and maintain an active QEI certification and any required state or local licenses.
  • Support operational needs by assisting with additional inspections as workload demands and contributing to territory coverage.
  • Promote company services through professional representation in the field and by identifying opportunities to expand client relationships where appropriate.

Work Environment/Physical Demands
  • This position operates in varied environments.
  • Routinely deals with loud noises, working near moving and/or mechanical parts, and in potentially high, precarious places.
  • Attention to detail is required.
  • Regularly required to talk and listen.
  • Required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Considerable time is spent in the field inspecting elevators, escalators, and various other lift equipment.
  • Inspection sites can be dirty, cluttered with materials or debris. Inspectors may have to climb ladders or many flights of stairs, or crawl around in tight spaces.
  • Inspectors must adhere to safety requirements, including PPE at constructions sites such as wearing hard hats, safety shoes, high visibility vest, and eye protection.
  • There can be a risk of electric shock due to working near working mechanical parts and wires.
  • Environments can be dusty and include various odors.
  • There is often vibration while riding the elevators.
  • Position deals with various climate conditions including heat and cold and periodically must deal with outdoor weather conditions.

Travel
Travel to and from jobs is required to service our clients and customers. Travel may be required but will be determined on as needed basis.
Qualifications
  • Must hold a current Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI) certification issued by the National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities (NAESA) International, the Qualified Elevator Inspector Training Fund (QEITF), or the National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC).
  • Must obtain and maintain all required state and/or local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) licenses, badges and certifications applicable to the territory of assignment.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of elevator and conveyance industry principles, practices, materials, equipment, and inspection procedures.
  • Strong understanding of applicable ASME codes, local ordinances, and regulatory requirements governing elevator inspections.
  • Ability to interpret and adhere to the code of ethics and professional standards established by the applicable certifying organization.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical and code-related matters to maintenance providers, contractors, building owners, and regulatory officials.
  • Proficiency in using laptops or tablet devices to complete inspection reports, document violations, update regulatory portals, and reference applicable codes and standards.
  • Professional demeanor with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact confidently and respectfully with clients, contractors, and the general public.

Competencies (examples below)
  • Demonstrates ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision
  • Displays dependability through attendance, follow through, and completion of tasks
  • Shows teamwork by cooperating with others, exhibiting a positive attitude, and communicating openly, consistently, and directly
  • Listens to others
  • Time Management
  • Negotiating
  • Strong communication proficiency
  • Client Focused - creates satisfied Clients by providing exceptional Client service
  • Takes initiative and acts in a responsible manner
  • Shows flexibility within established parameters

DISCLAIMER:This job description is designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by associates within this classification. It is not designed to confirm or be interpreted as a comprehensive summary of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of associates assigned to this job.
ATIS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, you can request help by calling 1-314-441-3997 or by sending an email to hr@atis.com. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.