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Lead Inspector Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Verify in-process production against specifications by performing visual and measurement tests and communicating required adjustments to the production supervisor or primary lead. * Inspect finished ...

Verify in-process production against specifications by performing visual and measurement tests and communicating required adjustments to the production supervisor or primary lead. * Inspect finished ...

Lead inspectors may supervise other senior inspectors or inspectors. Senior inspectors may supervise other inspectors. All inspector positions will act under the responsibility of a Resident Engineer.

Verify in-process production against specifications by performing visual and measurement tests and communicating required adjustments to the production supervisor or primary lead. * Inspect finished ...

Lead inspectors may supervise other senior inspectors or inspectors. Senior inspectors may supervise other inspectors. All inspector positions will act under the responsibility of a Resident Engineer.

Lead Quality Inspector

Batavia, IL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Job Summary The Quality Lead, Fabrication coordinates activities of workers engaged in inspecting ... Supervises and oversees all quality control / inspection operations (i.e., Hold Area, Lab, and ...

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Lead Inspector information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$29

$58

How much do lead inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead inspector in Illinois is $29.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $38.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead inspector?

Lead Inspectors are professionals responsible for identifying the presence of lead-based paint and other lead hazards in homes, schools, and other buildings. They conduct visual assessments, collect samples of dust, paint, and soil, and use specialized equipment to detect lead contamination. Their work is crucial for ensuring that environments meet safety standards and protect occupants, especially children, from the harmful effects of lead exposure. Lead Inspectors often work with property owners, contractors, and government agencies to recommend and oversee remediation efforts.

What does a lead inspector do?

A lead inspector examines homes or buildings for the presence of lead paint or other material with a lead base. In this career, you may work in residential homes, public facilities, or commercial buildings. Most facilities that serve children, such as schools, need to have their buildings checked for lead content. You walk through the building, inspecting every wall and surface for the possibility of lead and test the paint to determine the severity of the hazard. After each inspection, you document your findings for your client or company.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Inspector, you need strong attention to detail, knowledge of industry regulations, and relevant experience or certifications in inspection practices. Familiarity with inspection tools, quality management systems, and reporting software is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate teams and resolve issues efficiently. These skills are crucial to ensure compliance, maintain safety standards, and drive continuous improvement within inspection processes.

What are some common challenges faced by a lead inspector, and how are they typically addressed?

Lead Inspectors often encounter challenges such as managing tight project deadlines, coordinating with multiple teams, and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. To address these, they rely on strong organizational skills, clear communication, and up-to-date knowledge of industry standards. Building strong relationships with team members and stakeholders also helps streamline inspection processes and resolve issues efficiently, ensuring projects remain on track and compliant.

What is the difference between Lead Inspector vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectLead InspectorQuality Control Inspector
CertificationsOften requires certifications like ASQ CQI, API, or specific industry standardsMay require basic certifications, but less frequently
Work EnvironmentSupervises inspection teams, coordinates inspections, and ensures compliancePerforms inspections, checks products or processes, and reports issues
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, construction, aerospace, and oil & gas industriesCommon across manufacturing, automotive, and production sectors

The main difference between a Lead Inspector and a Quality Control Inspector is that the Lead Inspector oversees inspection teams and manages inspection processes, while the Quality Control Inspector primarily conducts inspections and reports on product quality. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in ensuring compliance and quality standards within various industries.

How much do lead inspectors make?

Lead inspectors in New York City typically earn an average salary of around $70,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry sector. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of inspections, employer size, and additional skills such as report writing or specialized knowledge.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Inspector jobs in IL?

For Lead Inspector jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lead Inspector job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,253 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Lead Maintenance Inspector - 950

West Star Aviation

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


West Star Aviation rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 67 rated aviation services


Job description

West Star is the fastest growing maintenance repair organization in the industry and we recognize this is the result of our talented team of trusted employees working together to deliver customer service excellence. We are committed to providing our employees with personal and professional growth opportunities while fostering a culture of respect and well-being with a small company feel.
When you join our team we don't think you should have to wait for your benefits to kick in. That's why when you start, they start with you! This includes medical, dental, 401K match, time off accruals, weekly pay days and much more. We don't want you to live to work, we want you to work and live.
What you can expect as a Lead Maintenance Inspector at West Star:
As a Lead Maintenance Inspector you will manage the performance of operational quality control tasks and ensure adherence to the policies and procedures in the West Star Aviation, "WSA" Repair Station & Quality Control Manual, Customer Maintenance Programs, and Federal Aviation Regulations.
You will be ESSENTIAL to many FUNCTIONS including:
  • Review technician assignments and sign offs to ensure technician adherence to Roster Authorizations and Repair Station Authorizations.
  • Perform front line, spot checks of technician maintenance activity to ensure adherence to AMM, RSQCM, and customer GMM guidelines. Including but not limited to:
  • Ensure all Repair Station RQC and Operators RII requirements are properly identified, inspected and documented.
  • Engine run/taxi qualification of techs assigned to run engines / taxi
  • Verification of satisfactory squawk completion
  • Verification of operational checks
  • Spot check verification of tech proficiency
  • Verification and communication with tech support
  • Ensure customer MEL "M" procedures have been complied with, with respect to the maintenance performed
  • Ensure MEL verification procedures as outlined in MQB 2018-02 Rev 1 are adhered to.
  • Perform aircraft final walk-around and release, with particular attention to areas disturbed during maintenance
  • The Lead Maintenance Inspector will advise the customer via email that the aircraft has been released from West Star Aviation custody.
  • Ensure that appropriate and current Technical Data is used. (i.e. Manufacturers Maintenance and Overhaul Manuals, Service Bulletins, Part or Component Specifications, etc.)
  • Ensure that the Policies and Procedures outlined in the WSA RSQCM are followed
  • Ensure the proper tagging, inspection, identification of parts, and components as outlined in this manual. These inspections are to be carried out in real time coordination with maintenance activities
  • Ensure that distributed customer requests are being carried out in the manner that is expected of WSA. This includes but is not limited to:
  • Verifying proper tech support is involved
  • Verifying tech support is mentioned in Corridor corrective actions
  • Verifying MX Net status of projects
  • Verifying MX Net updates
  • Spot check of Ramp App usage
  • Perform the functions authorized on the Repair Station Roster
  • Reject items and work found to be non-compliant with the WSA Repair Station & Quality Control Manual, Customer Maintenance Programs, and Federal Aviation Regulations
  • Reject incomplete or improperly completed work which is submitted for return to service consideration
  • Hold the release of an aircraft by extending the RTS line if unsatisfactory conditions are identified that would lead to a quality escape
  • Reject corrective actions with respect to Quality issues
  • Effectively and clearly communicate (i.e., speak, write, read) in English
  • Any other job-related duties as assigned by supervisor or management.

What you'll need to bring with you:
Your Education:
A High school diploma or equivalent and Airframe and Powerplant License or Repairman Certificate are required. A valid driver's license approved for airline travel and/or a valid passport is ideal, but not mandatory. Aircraft specific factory training is preferred.
Your Experience:
Extensive experience in maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alterations with part 43. Must be proficient in using the various types of inspection equipment and visual inspection aids appropriate for the article being inspected.
Your Initiative:
We're looking for a team player who is self-motivated and able to perform in a fast paced environment where working under specific deadlines and time constraints will be common.
Your Sense of Responsibility:
Attend work every day as scheduled to include overtime and weekend assignments.
Notify supervisor in advance of shift starting if unable to work.
Must have reliable transportation to get to work each and every day.
Must perform all work in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines.
Follow all company and safety rules during performance of duties.
Maintain customer oriented work habits.
Direct the work and flow of multiple projects.
Supervision of team members in daily operations and duties.
Completion of work orders, FAA paperwork.
Other Particulars:
Physical Requirements
Lift at least 70 lbs.
Routine walking, bending and squatting or sitting.
Routing or repetitive physical motion with arms and hands.
Work in confined spaces.
Sit or stand for prolonged periods while performing repairs.
Work on elevated platforms (up to 40 feet in the air) using fall protection safety gear.
Mental Requirements
Understanding and implementation of regulations and guidelines.
Troubleshoot or evaluate system operation.
Work with others in a professional manner.
Must be able to input and retrieve information from computers.
Experience with Apple and Microsoft products especially Outlook, Word, and Excel spreadsheets.
Able to travel to locations, in all weather conditions, to perform repairs.
Work independently with minimal supervision.
Working Conditions
The majority of work will be accomplished in a hangar environment which can include very hot or very cold temperatures.
Work outside during aircraft runs will occur.
Varied positions in and around the aircraft.
Equipment Used
Personal hand tools supplied by the mechanic.
Pneumatic, hydraulic and electrical equipment.
Jacks, stands, lifts and other support devices.
Tugs, power carts and other engine powered equipment.
Personal computer and work order prints.
Compensation & Benefit Information
The following information is disclosed according to state specific requirements. If the position applied to is not in a state with these requirements, the following information may not apply. The hourly rate for this position generally ranges between $32 - $58. Actual hourly rate will vary and may be above or below the range based on various factors including but not limited to location, experience and performance. Additional compensation in the form of a shift differential will be provided if the employee is assigned to an alternate shift. The range listed is just one component of the total compensation package. Other forms of compensation include a semi-annual discretionary bonus, 401(k) company match and employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA).
West Star Aviation's Benefits
  • Benefits Effective Day One for Eligible Employees
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage with Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
  • Life Insurance, Disability Benefits & Supplemental Benefits
  • 401(k) Plan with Employee Contributions & Employer Match
  • Paid Company Holidays & Weekly Paid Time Off Accruals
  • Flexible Work Schedules include 5x8, 4x10 and 3x12
  • Weekly Competitive & Industry Leading Pay means you are paid more often
  • Bonus Opportunity based on Company and Site Performance
  • Internal Mobility & Career Advancement opportunities

Company Description:
With over 78 years of industry experience, West Star Aviation stands as a leading independent Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) provider. Employing over 3,000 professionals, we offer comprehensive services from our strategically located full-service facilities in East Alton, IL; Grand Junction, CO; Chattanooga, TN; Millville, NJ; Perryville, Missouri; and Statesville, NC as well as satellite locations in Denver, Houston, Minneapolis and Chicago. Our extensive capabilities encompass maintenance, paint, interior, and avionics services, supported by the largest Aircraft On Ground (AOG) network in the country, ensuring prompt and reliable mobile repair services nationwide.

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