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Environmental Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Laboratory Inspector

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$20 - $20.50/hr

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, regulated environment and is committed to accuracy, quality, and compliance. Key Responsibilities * Perform incoming, in-process, and final inspections of ...

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Vehicle Inspector

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Vehicle Inspector

Merrillville, IN

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Vehicle Inspector

Merrillville, IN

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Vehicle Inspector

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Vehicle Inspector

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Vehicle Inspector

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Vehicle Inspector

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Vehicle Inspector

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

Quality Inspector

Chicago, IL · On-site

$35/hr

Join Verify, Inc. and be part of a collaborative environment where your skills make a difference every day! * The quality inspector shall travel to various supplier facilities to perform visual and ...

Flexible work environment. Set your own hours, work with minimal guidance, be your own boss! OPENLANE is searching for an Independent Contractor for vehicle inspections. The Independent Contractor ...

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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:

$51/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

About the Organization

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc. (E2) is a professional services firm established in 1988 specializing in a full spectrum of engineering services including, project engineering and design, federal base operations and infrastructure support services, gas pipeline construction and inspection services, environmental consulting and remediation, and information technology services. At E2, we value safety, innovation and collaboration, and we are dedicated to excellence.

Overview

The Chief Inspector is responsible for coordinating the activities of and assigning responsibilities to the Inspectors on the project to ensure all of the inspection functions are performed.  This position requires an active Dual Cert (CPWI) or CWI with AMPP?  This position also requires a AMPP Certification.  This position is based out of Orland Park, Illinois.

Responsibilities

Chief Inspectors shall perform each of the tasks set forth in this Section.

  • The Chief Inspector has overall responsibility for the delivery of the Services and management of the Inspectors during each Project and shall maintain direct contact with Company personnel.
  • The Chief Inspector's responsibilities shall include, but are not limited to, monitoring, reporting, and assisting Company on any questions regarding Services provided by Contractor or Inspectors.
  • The Chief Inspector shall keep a log of all issues (safety, quality, compliance, RFl's, early warnings, change requests, etc.) that are submitted on each Project through verbal communication, inspection forms, reports, etc. The Chief Inspector shall make sure all issues are resolved in a timely manner. Resolution (corrective action) shall be documented in a written issue log. Chief Inspector shall review issue log with Company on a weekly basis.
  • The Chief Inspector is to ensure that 100% of all Inspector reports and inspection forms are legible, complete, and thorough, and shall log any issue documented on the inspection reports to ensure proper follow-up and resolution of the issue occurs. The Chief Inspector shall participate in Company meetings when requested.
  • The Chief Inspector will ensure that all necessary forms are complete and transmitted to the proper person within the Company or are properly loaded on the web-based project management system for each Project.
  • The Chief Inspector shall be responsible for ensuring that the construction work in the field is performed in accordance with Company's drawings, plans, specifications, and contract documents.
  • The Chief Inspector shall assist overall coordination efforts of various Other Contractors. The Chief Inspector shall be responsible for allocating inspection resources to the daily tasks being performed on the job and should notify Company of any resource deficiencies.
  • Prior to commissioning (placing gas on the pipeline), the Chief Inspector shall prepare a pre-commissioning packet for Company approval. Pre-commissioning packet shall consist of test charts, pipeline cleaning / drying records, material reconciliations, engineer specifications, purchase orders, MTR's, as-builts (if completed), etc. Pipeline shall not be commissioned until approved by Company.
  • Chief Inspector shall ensure all Company supplied materials are visually inspected for damage prior to unloading, shall verify the quantities shown on each packing slip, and shall maintain a record of packing slips and Material Test Records ("MTRs") as directed by Company. Any and all deficiencies shall be noted and reported to the Company by the Chief Inspector. No material should be unloaded without proper documentation (i.e., MTRs).
  • Chief Inspector shall be responsible for ensuring material receipt, inspection, and proper documentation retention.
Qualifications
  • Minimum of five (5) years coordinating / inspecting construction projects for natural gas transmission/distribution pipelines.
  • Experience coordinating multiple contractors and inspectors across disciplines.
  • Ability to read and implement the OPM.
  • Word and Excel Computer skills
  • Ability to read construction drawings, alignment sheets and valve maps and translate to actual field constructability.
  • Required Operator Qualifications (per contract documents)
  • Active Dual Cert (CPWI) or CWI with AMPP.

 

Preferred

  • Project experience with urban natural gas pipeline construction
  • Experience interpreting digital/ film radiography of welds and pipe.
  • Familiarity with DOT 192, FERC, and OSHA regulations
  • AWS/CWI Welding Certification Welding
  • ANST-SNT-TC-lA Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)-Level 1
  • ANST-SNT-TC-lA Liquid Penetrate (PT)-Level
  • OSHA Certified
  • NACE CIP LEVEL 1 (Course Completion)
Benefits

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc. offers an excellent benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401(k) with employer match.

Wage Data Per State Requirements

This position willl pay $51 an hour depending on Experience.

Local Candidates onlyNoDrug Free Workplace

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc. is a Drug Free Workplace. After accepting an offer of employment, applicants may be required to undergo background checks, drug testing, and/or fit-for-duty physical examination.  Drug screens will include, but not be limited to, Amphetamines, Cocaine Metabolites, Marijuana Metabolites (THC), Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). As a federal contractor, E2 cannot permit employees in certain positions to use medical marijuana, even if prescribed by an authorized physician.

Solicitation

Please no solicitation of any kind from agencies, staffing, or recruiting firms.

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME