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Environmental Inspector Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Supervisor

Dearborn, MI

$107K - $111K/yr

MPS Group, Inc., is seeking multiple Environmental Supervisors to join our team at the Ford Rouge ... Inspect equipment and small tools to ensure they are in proper working condition, and red tag and ...

Environmental Supervisor

Dearborn, MI ยท On-site

$107K - $111K/yr

MPS Group, Inc., is seeking multiple Environmental Supervisors to join our team at the Ford Rouge ... Inspect equipment and small tools to ensure they are in proper working condition, and red tag and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Environmental Inspector information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$29.7K

$63.4K

$105.4K

How much do environmental inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental inspector in Detroit, MI is $63,437.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $74,700.00 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 Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI are:

Mechanical Inspector - Buildings, Safety, Engineering & Environmental Department

City of Detroit, MI

Detroit, MI โ€ข On-site

$63K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Salary: $63,614.00 - $85,376.00 Annually
Location : Detroit, Michigan, MI
Job Type: Certified-Regular Civil Service
Job Number: 20254199526BSEEDmm
Department: Buildings & Safety Eng
Opening Date: 03/30/2026
Closing Date: 6/30/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: 0500
Description
BUILDINGS, SAFETY ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEPARTMENT
MECHANICAL INSPECTOR
We create safe environments for city residents.
The BSEED mission is to provide for the safety, health and welfare of the general public as it pertains to buildings and their environs in an efficient, cost-effective, user friendly and professional manner.
BSEED enforces construction, property maintenance, environmental compliance and zoning codes, which preserve and enhance property values and promote quality of life to make Detroit a preferred place to reside and conduct business.
Under general supervision, to inspect heating, ventilation refrigeration, and air-conditioning equipment and systems to assure compliance with pertinent codes and city ordinances, approved plans, specifications and accepted standards and methods of work.
Examples of Duties
Essential Duties and Responsibilities (may perform other duties as assigned)
  • Inspects and tests gas-fired, oil-fired, and solid fuel-fired heating equipment and its associated storage and control equipment, space heating distribution systems and components, air-conditioning equipment and components, refrigeration systems and equipment for compliance with pertinent codes and for installation according to approved plans.
  • Reports findings, secures corrections, or issues violation notices.
  • Points out code violations.
  • Explains code provisions.
  • Witnesses and reports on equipment acceptance tests.
  • Checks for proper licensure of boiler and refrigeration plant operating personnel.
  • Investigates complaints of violations of codes and prepares notices of violations.
  • Makes re-inspections of premises or equipment to determine corrections of code violations.
  • Compiles information and prepares code violation cases for court.
  • Appears and testifies regarding code violation in court cases.
  • Investigates and reports on accidents.
  • Prepares daily activities reports.
  • Assists in the training of new employees assigned to the activity.

Minimum Qualifications
Qualifications (required):
  • High school graduation or GED and two (2) years of advanced training in engineering principles and their practical application to the fields of refrigeration, air-conditioning, combustion control, and space heating distribution systems.
  • Two (2) years of experience in the installation, construction, maintenance, operation, and repair of heating, refrigeration, and air-conditioning equipment and systems.
Qualifications (preferred):
  • Training shall have been secured by the completion of an apprenticeship in heating and refrigeration mechanics with a reputable concern.
  • One (1) year of training in an engineering college.
  • Experience in the inspectional and/or supervisory phases of the work.
Equivalency
  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Licenses, Certifications, and Other Special Requirements:
  • State of Michigan Mechanical Contractor License with limited or unlimited Heating or Refrigeration Service required.
  • Employees certified or promoted to this class must acquire and maintain registration as an inspector and plan reviewer with the State of Michigan, as required under the provisions of Public Act #54, rule 31 R. 408-30043. Progress toward obtaining certification will be evaluated at the end of the initial six-month probation period with a conditional six-month extension possible, after which, failure to comply will result in termination of employment in this class.
  • Employees in this class will within (30) thirty days make an application for provisional registration with the State of Michigan in accordance with Public Act #54, R. 408.30031, Rule 31 (5) and provide written verification of completing the minimum required hours of approved educational or training programs as prescribed in Table 31 of Rule 31.
  • An applicant for registration as a provisional mechanical inspector shall have possessed a mechanical license for not less than 1 year in 3 or more categories 1, 2, 4, or 9 as defined in 1984 PA 192, MCL 338.971 to MCL 338.988 and known as the Forbes mechanical contractors act; or individual shall be licensed as a mechanical contractor in classification 1 and 2 and also have an ICC (International Code Council) Certification as a Commercial Fire Sprinkler Inspector and Commercial Mechanical Inspector.
  • Employees in this class will be required to provide their own automobile for transportation on a reimbursed mileage basis; valid State of Michigan Operator License required.
  • Successful applicants certified to positions in this class must acquire and maintain registration as an inspector with the State of Michigan.

Supplemental Information
Evaluation Plan
  • Interview: 70%
  • Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 30%
  • Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100%
Additional points may be awarded for:
  • Veteran Points: 0 - 15 points
  • Detroit Residency Credit: 15 point
LRD: 01-10-2026
Bargaining Unit: 1600 - AFSCME - Council 25
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of materials, operations, construction, and trades practices related to such equipment and systems.
  • Knowledge of elementary mechanical, chemical, electrical, and thermodynamic engineering principles governing the operation of heating and refrigerating equipment and systems.
  • Knowledge of State of Michigan codes.
  • Skill in physical and mechanical dexterity.
  • Skill in observation.
  • Skill in performing inspections.
  • Skill in communicating effectively, both orally and in writing, with tact and diplomacy.
  • Skill in use of personal computers and common office software.
  • Ability to read and interpret plans and specifications for compliance with all related codes, ordinances, and laws.
  • Ability to detect potential hazards to public safety.
  • Ability to climb ladders and enter manholes, narrow openings and crawl spaces, and to move along narrow, exposed platforms and beams, and to climb in and out of trenches and other excavations.
  • Ability to work in high places and confined spaces.
  • Ability to work in hot, dusty places.
  • Ability to withstand noxious and unpleasant odors.
  • Ability to interact with tact and courtesy in contacts with workers, supervisors, contractors, owners, and the general public.

  • Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position.

The above statements reflect the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this class. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Essential duties may vary from position to position.
Notes:
Class Consolidation 02/21/1994 That the duties and responsibilities of Heating Equipment Inspector (19-95-25) and Refrigeration Inspector (19-95-27) is consolidated therein.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The City of Detroit offers a competitive and comprehensive employee benefit package. We pride ourselves on the longevity of our employees. Part of the reason for the low turnover rate is the exceptional benefit package listed below. Benefits include, but are not limited to the following:
HEALTH
  • Medical - Eligible for hospital, surgical, and prescription drug benefits.
  • Dental
  • Vision
INSURANCE
  • Life Insurance - Optional group insurance available to employee and their family. The City pays 60% of premium for first $12,500 of employee life insurance. Employee may purchase, at own expense, life insurance for spouse and each dependent.
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance (Income Protection Plan) - The City offers disability insurance through payroll deductions for persons who become disabled and who are not yet eligible for a service retirement.
PAID TIME OFF
  • Sick Leave
  • Vacation
  • Holidays
OTHER LEAVE BENEFITS
The City also has the following paid and unpaid leaves; funeral leave, Family and Medical Leave, jury duty, military duty leave, unpaid personal leave,
RETIREMENT BENEFITS
City Employees Retirement System
As a regular City employee you automatically become a member of the General Retirement System. This entitles you to a retirement allowance after:
โ€ข Completion of thirty (30) years of service;
- At age sixty (60) if you have at least ten (10) years of service, or
- At age sixty-five (65) with eight (8) years of service.
โ€ข In the event of disability, other eligibility rules apply);
- An early, actuarially reduced, retirement is offered after you have attained at least twenty-five (25) years of service;
โ€ข Employees are vested after ten (10) years of service, regardless of age.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES - Employees have many opportunities for growth and career advancement throughout all City departments and divisions.
Have a successful career with the City of Detroit. Always remember that you are a part of a team with a common Vision of delivering excellent service to the citizens of the City of Detroit
01
Please indicate your highest level of education completed
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • PhD/J.D.
  • No Education experience

02
Do you possess high school graduation or GED and two (2) years of advanced training in engineering principles and their practical application to the fields of refrigeration, air-conditioning, combustion control, and space heating distribution systems.
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you possess Two (2) years of experience in the installation, construction, maintenance, operation, and repair of heating, refrigeration, and air-conditioning equipment and systems.
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have experience in at least 3 of the following categories? (Check all that apply)
  • Hydronic Heating & Cooling (Category 1)
  • HVAC Equipment (Category 2)
  • Refrigeration (Category 4)
  • Limited Heating Service (Category 9)
  • None of the above

05
If you do not meet the above, do you have both: A license in Hydronic Heating & Cooling (Category 1) AND HVAC Equipment (Category 2)?
  • Yes
  • No

06
If "Yes" to the previous question, do you also have ICC Certifications in:
  • Commercial Fire Sprinkler Inspection
  • Commercial Mechanical Inspection
  • None of the above

07
Do you possess a valid State of Michigan Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question