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Lead Inspector Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Inspector, Chief

Rockford, IL · On-site

$108K - $135K/yr

Lead internal audits and support preparation for all external audits. * Ensure proper calibration and control of inspection tools and precision test equipment. * Collaborate with Quality Assurance ...

Lead internal audits and support preparation for all external audits. * Ensure proper calibration and control of inspection tools and precision test equipment. * Collaborate with Quality Assurance ...

Lead internal audits and support preparation for all external audits. * Ensure proper calibration and control of inspection tools and precision test equipment. * Collaborate with Quality Assurance ...

Job Summary The QC Inspector Lead is an experienced quality inspection role responsible for performing incoming and in process inspections while serving as the primary quality point of contact ...

... primary lead. * Approves finished products by confirming specifications; conducting visual and ... Documents inspection results by completing reports/logs; summarizing re-work and waste; inputting ...

... primary lead. * Approves finished products by confirming specifications; conducting visual and ... Documents inspection results by completing reports/logs; summarizing re-work and waste; inputting ...

... primary lead. * Approves finished products by confirming specifications; conducting visual and ... Documents inspection results by completing reports/logs; summarizing re-work and waste; inputting ...

Assists the Quality Lead and Operational Quality Manager in coordinating and executing objectives ... Discuss inspection results with those responsible for products and recommend necessary corrective ...

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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 May 28, 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 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 are Lead Inspectors?

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 jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

Lead inspectors in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or quality assurance can earn around $5,000 weekly with extensive experience and specialized skills. High-paying inspection roles often require certifications, strong attention to detail, and the ability to interpret technical standards, but they typically do not require a college degree.

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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,253 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Housing Quality Standards (HQS) Inspector - Maywood, IL - Part-Time

Quality Inspection Solutions

Maywood, IL

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Company Description

QIS is a national leader and a trusted partner of choice for public housing authorities who demand product and service excellence. After conducting more than 2,000,000 inspections across the nation, QIS understands the unique needs of the housing industry and the flexibility needs of our employees. 

Corporately based in beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee, QIS is an American company and proudly operating as a woman and veteran owned enterprise. 

QIS services include: 

  • HQS Inspection Services 
  • UPCS Inspections
  • SEMAP Reviews
  • PHA Policy Consulting 
  • HCV Program Management Services
  • Remote Recertification Services 
  • Rent Reasonableness Studies 
  • Rent Determination and Negotiation 
Job Description

HQS Inspector Description

Under the direct supervision of the Regional Inspections Manager, the position of the HQS Inspector will be responsible for conducting HQS inspections following the guidelines of HUD's Housing Quality Standards and the contracted Housing Authority's administrative plan. All inspectors are required to complete the provided classroom, online, and field training and must pass the final HQS certification exam. 

 Major Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Conducting all types of inspections: Initial Inspections, Annual Inspections, Re-Inspections, Complaint Inspections, Abatement Inspections.
  2. Collect and transmit data using the hand held device.
  3. Pull schedule and inspection information for upcoming work shift.
  4. Complete and submit required documents to corporate office.
Qualifications

Physical Demands:

Moderate work: Must have the ability to walk 3-5 miles per day, bend and stoop, climb stairs, carry a 2 lbs. tablet and make observations in all levels of lighting.

Minimum Education

1. High School diploma or GED.

2. Completion of Inspector Training Classes, achievement of lead-based paint visual assessment course or other HQS certification exams in the past is a big plus.

Additional Information

All positions are PRODUCTION-BASED (based on completed inspections), so be prepared to discuss the best production schedule for your current needs to ensure a proper "life/work balance". 

Based on average production levels, you can earn approximately $20-$25 most hours.

BENEFITS - Dental and vision insurance is available for all level of inspectors. Inspectors classified as full-time will be eligible for paid vacation, employee health insurance, and nine paid holidays.