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Public Transportation Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL

... inspection. Our clientele includes large and small water, sewer, and utility districts; departments of transportation and other public transportation agencies; and municipalities throughout the ...

Construction Inspector

Lisle, IL ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

We work on roadway, bridge, municipal, and transportation infrastructure projects throughout ... public agencies to deliver quality infrastructure that keeps communities moving. This is an ...

Construction Inspector

Lisle, IL ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

We work on roadway, bridge, municipal, and transportation infrastructure projects throughout ... public agencies to deliver quality infrastructure that keeps communities moving. This is an ...

Construction Inspector

Lisle, IL ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

We work on roadway, bridge, municipal, and transportation infrastructure projects throughout ... public agencies to deliver quality infrastructure that keeps communities moving. This is an ...

Construction Inspector

Lisle, IL ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

We work on roadway, bridge, municipal, and transportation infrastructure projects throughout ... public agencies to deliver quality infrastructure that keeps communities moving. This is an ...

... transportation construction, engineering, entrepreneurship, and who aspire to grow their career ... We provide engineering and construction management services to a variety of public and private ...

... transportation construction, engineering, entrepreneurship, and who aspire to grow their career ... We provide engineering and construction management services to a variety of public and private ...

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Showing results 1-20

Public Transportation Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20.1K

$66.1K

$94.8K

How much do public transportation inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for public transportation inspector in Chicago, IL is $66,118.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $79,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public transportation inspector?

Public transportation inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that buses, trains, and other forms of public transit operate safely and comply with regulations. They inspect vehicles, review safety procedures, and verify that operators and equipment meet established standards. Their work helps protect passengers, maintain reliable service, and enforce transportation laws. Inspectors may also investigate accidents or complaints and recommend improvements to transit systems.

What are some common challenges faced by public transportation inspectors in their daily work?

Public Transportation Inspectors often encounter challenges such as balancing thorough inspections with tight schedules, handling non-compliance issues diplomatically, and staying up-to-date with evolving safety regulations. Inspectors must be detail-oriented when reviewing vehicles and facilities for adherence to safety and operational standards, often working in busy or noisy environments. Collaborating with operators, maintenance staff, and regulatory agencies is essential to resolve issues efficiently while maintaining a professional and safety-focused atmosphere.

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

To thrive as a Public Transportation Inspector, you need a solid understanding of transportation regulations, safety standards, and inspection procedures, often supported by relevant certifications or a background in transportation or engineering. Familiarity with inspection tools, GPS systems, and reporting software is typically required for accurate assessments and documentation. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities help inspectors identify issues and collaborate with transit personnel. These skills ensure compliance with safety standards, efficient transit operations, and public safety.

What is the difference between Public Transportation Inspector vs Transit Security Officer?

AspectPublic Transportation InspectorTransit Security Officer
CredentialsMay require state or local inspector certificationsSecurity or law enforcement training, possibly security licenses
Work EnvironmentInspects transit systems, checks compliance, reviews safety proceduresPatrols transit stations and vehicles, monitors for security threats
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, government transportation departmentsTransit agencies, private security firms
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for safety and compliance roles in transitFocuses on security and safety enforcement in transit settings

While both roles focus on safety within transit environments, Public Transportation Inspectors primarily ensure compliance and safety standards, whereas Transit Security Officers focus on security enforcement and threat prevention. Both positions are vital for maintaining safe and efficient transit systems.

How do you become a public transportation inspector?

To become a public transportation inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in transit or safety roles, and knowledge of transportation regulations. Some positions may require passing written exams, background checks, and obtaining certifications related to safety or inspection procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Public Transportation Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Public Transportation Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Transportation Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Transportation Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Public Transportation Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,118 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Senior Water/Wastewater Facilities Inspector

Gonzalez Companies

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$30 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description
Gonzalez Companies is a partner managed firm that provides comprehensive Planning, Design, and Construction Management Services to large and small Water, Sewer and Utility Districts; Departments of Transportation; and municipalities. We are currently seeking a utilities inspector to help serve our connection of clients and community. If you’re hungry for knowledge, ready to make a difference and dedicated to providing personalized attention to our clients, we want you on our team. 
The base salary range for this role is indicated in the posting. This range reflects the company’s good faith estimate of the compensation for this position at the time of posting. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and geographic location.

Your Primary Responsibilities will include
  • Ability to oversee and manage construction projects from inception through completion, ensuring adherence to design plans, schedules, and budgets.
  • Coordinate with clients, architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors.
  • Review construction plans, specifications, and cost estimates.
  • Conduct site inspections to monitor quality, progress, and compliance with local safety and building codes, state and local specifications and project Special Provisions.
  • Ability to identify and resolve engineering or construction-related issues in a timely manner.
  • Review project documentation, including contracts, RFIs (Requests for Information), material submittals, and change orders.
  • Implement construction best management practices and innovative solutions to optimize efficiency and reduce construction costs.
  • Ensure environmental compliance for  stormwater management and erosion control.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and field personnel.
  • Maintain accurate project records, reports, and progress documentation for internal and external stakeholders.


What you'll need
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of construction engineering or inspection experience; municipal, transportation, or heavy civil projects in the Chicago area is highly desirable.
  • Excellent project planning, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to coordinate across teams and stakeholders.
  • Familiarity with safety regulations (OSHA, local safety codes) and environmental compliance requirements.


Gonzalez Offers Competitive Benefits including:
  • Competitive salary
  • Major medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Health Savings Account
  • 401K
  • Bonus program
  • Paid holidays and generous paid time off
  • Professional development
  • A team of creative and talented individuals to work alongside
Gonzalez is a rapidly growing, dynamic, professional services firm specializing in civil engineering, construction management, and construction inspection. Our clientele includes large and small water, sewer, and utility districts; departments of transportation and other public transportation agencies; and municipalities throughout the Midwest.
Working primarily in the Greater St. Louis, Chicago, and Louisville metro areas, Gonzalez offers a great work environment, generous benefit packages, and opportunities to succeed in many professional disciplines.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Gonzalez Companies, LLC provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Pay Transparency:
The base salary (or hourly rate) range for this role is indicated in the posting. This range reflects the company’s good faith estimate of the compensation for this position at the time of posting. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and geographic location.
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