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Environmental Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$90K - $125K/yr

Participate in site inspections, audits, and project meetings. * Contribute to ongoing learning and ... Environmental science, health, technicians, etc., do not meet this classification) * 5-10 years of ...

Essential Skills * 1-3 years of quality inspection experience preferred in a production environment. * Experience with inspection, assembly, and quality control in a manufacturing or production ...

Performs inspection and testing of purchased materials, components and products in accordance with ... QMS), Environmental Management Systems (EMS), and other regulatory requirements. We're hiring an ...

Performs inspection and testing of purchased materials, components and products in accordance with ... QMS), Environmental Management Systems (EMS), and other regulatory requirements. We're hiring an ...

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Environmental Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$66.1K

$109.8K

How much do environmental inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental inspector in Chicago, IL is $66,064.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $77,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Environmental Inspectors during site visits?

Environmental Inspectors often encounter challenges such as gaining access to remote or restricted sites, navigating complex regulations that vary by jurisdiction, and effectively communicating compliance issues with site managers. They must also balance thorough inspections with time constraints and sometimes deal with adverse weather conditions. Building strong relationships with stakeholders and staying updated on regulatory changes can help manage these challenges and ensure successful inspections.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Environmental inspectors with specialized skills, advanced certifications, or experience in high-demand areas tend to earn higher salaries. For example, senior or lead inspectors, or those working in industries like oil and gas or manufacturing, often have higher earning potential. Salary can also increase with additional training in areas such as environmental compliance or hazardous materials handling.

Do environmental jobs pay well?

Environmental inspector jobs typically offer median salaries that are competitive within the public sector, often ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 annually depending on experience, location, and certifications. Higher salaries are common for those with specialized skills, advanced degrees, or supervisory responsibilities, and the job may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What Does an Environmental Inspector Do?

An environmental inspector is responsible for making routine inspections of sources of pollution and determining whether the producers are in compliance with all environmental laws. Your duties and responsibilities in this career include field investigation of job sites and industrial facilities, such as manufacturing and energy plants. You collect samples for testing, interview workers, and determines whether there have been any violations of environmental laws. If you determine public health or land is at risk, you write recommendations to your supervisors who determine the course of action for the offender.

What qualifications do you need to be an environmental officer?

Environmental inspectors typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant certifications, such as the Certified Environmental Inspector (CEI), and knowledge of environmental regulations and testing methods are also important. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Environmental Inspector vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEnvironmental InspectorEnvironmental Technician
CertificationsOften requires environmental inspection certifications, OSHA safety trainingTypically requires environmental science or technician certifications
Work EnvironmentConducts site inspections, field assessments, compliance checksPerforms sampling, data collection, lab work, and technical support
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by government agencies, construction, and environmental consulting firmsCommon in laboratories, environmental testing companies, and research facilities

Environmental Inspectors focus on site inspections and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, while Environmental Technicians support testing and data collection. Both roles are vital in environmental projects but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What is an environmental inspector?

An environmental inspector is a professional responsible for monitoring and enforcing environmental laws and regulations. They conduct inspections of sites to ensure compliance with safety standards, often using tools like testing equipment and requiring relevant certifications. Their work helps protect public health and the environment by identifying violations and recommending corrective actions.

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

To thrive as an Environmental Inspector, you need a solid understanding of environmental regulations, site assessment techniques, and a relevant degree in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with environmental monitoring equipment, GIS software, and regulatory databases is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Environmental Inspector (CEI) in some regions. Excellent attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring compliance, accurately identifying environmental risks, and effectively reporting and resolving environmental issues.

What are environmental inspectors?

Environmental inspectors are professionals who monitor and enforce environmental laws and regulations. They conduct site inspections to ensure compliance with environmental standards, investigate complaints, and may collect samples of air, water, or soil for laboratory analysis. Their work helps protect public health and the environment by preventing pollution and ensuring businesses adhere to legal requirements. Environmental inspectors may work for government agencies or private organizations. They often prepare reports, recommend corrective actions, and sometimes participate in legal proceedings related to environmental violations.
What job categories do people searching Environmental Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Quality Inspector (Electronics Environment)

Quality Inspector (Electronics Environment)

Aerotek

Waukegan, IL

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Quality Inspector

Job Description

The Quality Inspector plays a key role in ensuring that electronic assemblies and components meet strict quality standards throughout the manufacturing process. This position focuses on visual inspection of printed circuit boards, wires, cables, and finished electronic assemblies, using microscopes, magnifiers, and precision measuring tools to verify conformance to specifications and acceptance criteria. The role requires strong attention to detail, solid knowledge of electronics and electronic components, and the ability to accurately document inspection results in real time.

Responsibilities

  • Inspect incoming materials from suppliers to verify conformance to quality and specification requirements, including electronic components and assemblies (approximately 20% of the time).
  • Inspect in-process assemblies on the production floor to ensure that printed circuit boards, wires, cables, and related electronic assemblies meet established standards and acceptance criteria (approximately 20% of the time).
  • Inspect finished products and final assemblies to confirm they meet all quality, functional, and visual requirements before shipment (approximately 45% of the time).
  • Use microscopes, magnifiers, and other visual inspection tools to carefully examine printed circuit board assemblies and other electronic components for defects, damage, or nonconformances.
  • Perform visual inspections using calipers, micrometers, and other measuring tools as needed to verify dimensions and tolerances.
  • Accurately document inspection findings in the computer in real time using software such as Microsoft Word and Excel, ensuring records are complete, clear, and traceable.
  • Assist management with miscellaneous quality-related projects and tasks, supporting continuous improvement and problem-solving efforts (approximately 5% of the time).
  • Keep work areas neat, organized, and compliant with quality and safety standards to support an efficient and clean inspection environment (approximately 5% of the time).
  • Perform other duties as required to support the quality function and overall production needs (approximately 5% of the time).
  • Read and interpret assembly and fabrication drawings to understand product requirements, inspection criteria, and acceptance standards.
  • Comprehend and perform all duties in accordance with an ISO9001 Quality System, following established procedures, work instructions, and documentation requirements.
  • Work effectively within a team or group environment, collaborating with production, engineering, and management to resolve quality issues.
  • Handle multiple inspection tasks simultaneously and prioritize work to meet production schedules and deadlines.
  • Communicate clearly with colleagues and supervisors regarding quality concerns, nonconformances, and process improvements.

Essential Skills

  • At least 2 years of inspection experience in an electronics manufacturing environment.
  • 2–3 years of electronics experience, specifically with printed circuit boards and wires/cables.
  • Strong knowledge of electronics and electronic components (must have).
  • Knowledge of printed circuit board assemblies and related acceptance criteria.
  • Ability to identify and verify electronic components accurately.
  • Ability to read and understand assembly and fabrication drawings.
  • Ability to comprehend and perform duties in accordance with an ISO9001 Quality System.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Knowledge of IPC standards related to electronic assemblies (preferred).
  • Hands-on experience with inspection tools such as calipers and micrometers.
  • Experience performing visual inspections, including under magnification, for quality control and quality assurance.
  • Comfort working with microscopes and magnifiers for extended periods.
  • Familiarity with quality control, quality inspection, quality check, and quality assurance practices in a manufacturing environment.

Why Work Here?

You will work in a clean, modern, and climate-controlled facility that supports focus, precision, and comfort throughout the day. The organization emphasizes quality, consistency, and adherence to established standards, providing a structured environment where your attention to detail and technical expertise are highly valued. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with a supportive team, contribute directly to the reliability of electronic products, and gain experience within an ISO9001-certified environment. The role offers stable daytime hours with the potential for overtime when needed, supporting both professional growth and work-life balance.

Work Environment

This position is based in a modern factory with a controlled temperature and a very clean, well-organized production setting. The standard workday is 8 hours, 5 days a week, with overtime required as needed. The role is primarily seated, with the majority of the day spent at a dedicated desk visually inspecting printed circuit boards and other electronic components. You will regularly use microscopes, magnifiers, calipers, micrometers, and computer systems to perform inspections and document findings in real time. The environment is designed for detailed, repetitive visual work, so comfort with sitting and focusing on similar objects for extended periods is essential. Reliable transportation is required to commute to the facility. Dress is appropriate for a professional, electronics manufacturing and inspection environment, aligning with safety and cleanliness standards.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Waukegan, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $22.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Waukegan,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 19, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.