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Public Works Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

City of Elmhurst, IL

Public Works Inspector

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$33.91 - $50.87/hr

Performs public works, capital improvement, engineering and developer-built project inspections, for conformance with City, Federal, state and industry plans, specifications, codes and contract ...

City of Elmhurst

Public Works Inspector

Elmhurst, IL

$33.91 - $50.87/hr

Performs public works, capital improvement, engineering and developer-built project inspections, for conformance with City, Federal, state and industry plans, specifications, codes and contract ...

City of Crystal Lake

Engineering Inspector

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$75.80K - $109.30K/yr

This position is within the Engineering Division of the Public Works Department. This individual is responsible for field inspection and construction observation of public and private infrastructure ...

Lake Forest

Apprentice - Water & Sewer

Lake Forest, IL

$24.34 - $31.64/hr

... basin inspections, cleaning, and repair Operating trucks, tools, and equipment used in Public Works operations Qualifications The ideal candidate will bring a strong work ethic, a willingness to ...

City of Geneva, IL

Fleet Maintenance Technician

Geneva, IL · On-site

$64.71K - $103.77K/yr

Public Works Opening Date: 05/11/2026 Description The City of Geneva is seeking an experienced ... Performs vehicle and equipment preventative maintenance inspections and duties such as oil changes ...

Adidev Technologies Inc

Civil Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$45 - $60/hr

... public works, and information technology projects across the United States. We hire and support ... Coordinate with contractors, inspectors, agencies, and stakeholders * Identify risks, resolve field ...

Adidev Technologies Inc

Civil Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$45 - $60/hr

... public works, and information technology projects across the United States. We hire and support ... inspectors, agencies, and stakeholders -Identify risks, resolve field issues, and recommend ...

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Public Works Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20.1K

$66.1K

$94.8K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works 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 Does a Public Works Inspector Do?

A public works inspector’s primary role is to ensure the safety of water and wastewater systems, and ensure compliance with US EPA regulations. Responsibilities include the inspection and monitoring of conditions and documenting/reporting findings as required by law. Your duties in this job include overseeing the impact of construction projects, requiring the ability to read plans. You may also recommend corrections and repairs to mitigate any negative environmental effects. You work directly with contractors and other utility staff. The position is physically demanding, and may involve shift work. You should be available on an on-call basis during nights and weekends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Public Works Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Works Inspector, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, construction codes, and inspection techniques, usually supported by relevant certifications or an associate’s degree in construction management or a related field. Familiarity with inspection software, GIS systems, and the ability to interpret blueprints and technical documents are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial for working with contractors and public stakeholders. These skills ensure infrastructure projects meet regulatory standards, are completed safely, and serve the public interest efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by Public Works Inspectors on construction sites?

Public Works Inspectors often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple contractors, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and addressing unforeseen site conditions that may impact project timelines. Clear communication and attention to detail are essential, as inspectors must document findings, resolve discrepancies, and ensure safety standards are met. Additionally, balancing multiple projects simultaneously and adapting to variable weather or site conditions are typical aspects of the role.

What are Public Works Inspectors?

Public Works Inspectors are professionals responsible for inspecting construction projects related to public infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, water systems, and public buildings. They ensure that construction and maintenance work complies with municipal codes, safety regulations, and contract specifications. Public Works Inspectors often review plans, conduct site visits, document progress, and address any issues related to quality or compliance. Their work helps ensure public safety and the proper use of public funds by maintaining high standards in community projects.

What is the difference between Public Works Inspector vs Civil Engineer?

AspectPublic Works InspectorCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles require certifications in construction or inspectionBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field; licensure often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, public infrastructure projects, field inspectionsDesign offices, project planning, site supervision
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, government agencies, construction firmsEngineering firms, government agencies, private sector

Public Works Inspectors primarily focus on inspecting construction projects to ensure compliance with codes and standards, working directly on-site. Civil Engineers design, plan, and oversee infrastructure projects, often working in offices and on-site. While both roles are involved in public infrastructure, Inspectors concentrate on enforcement and quality control, whereas Civil Engineers handle design and project planning.

More about Public Works Inspector jobs
What are popular job titles related to Public Works Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Public Works Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Works Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Public Works Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Public Works Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $66,118 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Public Works Inspector

City of Elmhurst, IL

Elmhurst, IL • On-site

$33.91 - $50.87/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

City of Elmhurst
Employment Opportunity
Public Works Inspector
Position Summary:
Performs public works, capital improvement, engineering and developer-built project inspections, for conformance with City, Federal, state and industry plans, specifications, codes and contract provisions; ensures that required modifications are accomplished.
Essential Functions:
  • Performs inspections of facilities such as streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, driveways, catch basins, storm and sanitary sewers, street lights, traffic signals and controls, irrigation systems, rough and fine grading and related public works projects; performs on-site inspections for capital improvement projects.
  • Reviews plans, maps, specifications, soils reports, materials testing laboratory reports, contracts and other documents to ensure conformance with federal, state, City codes and regulations; notes changes required and follows up as necessary.
  • Inspects tree protection zones and silt fencing for compliance with specifications.
  • Interprets, explains and enforces regulations, ordinances and policies to developers, contractors, representatives of other agencies and the public; confers with City engineers regarding possible changes to plans and problem resolution.
  • Observes safety aspects, including barricades, of jobs in progress; encourages contractors to follow applicable safety rules and regulations.
  • Checks plans, pay requests, & construction documents for mathematical accuracy.
  • Utilize Tyler Technologies platform for inspection scheduling and reporting. Maintains logs of inspections performed not in Tyler platform.
  • Prepares periodic & special reports as required; estimates progress payments due on contracts for public works projects; assists in contract close-out negotiations.
  • Retains plans and specifications until project completion; checks "as-built" plans for completeness and accuracy.
  • Uses a variety of engineering and survey tools and equipment; operates a motor vehicle to travel to and from job sites.
  • Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit's service to its customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active member of a work team.
  • May perform routine field testing of construction materials.
  • Maintains accurate records and prepares a variety of periodic and special reports.
  • Demonstrates courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with public and staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.
  • Periodically will be required to locate underground utilities using pipe, cable and magnetic locating equipment.
  • Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this role.

Qualifications:
  • Two years of college level course work in pre-engineering, construction technology or a related field AND two years of construction inspection experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.
  • Illinois driver's license.

Required Knowledge & Skills:
  • Construction methods, materials, practices, specifications and equipment.
  • Field engineering and inspection practices and basic design criteria for construction projects.
  • Applicable City and state laws, ordinances, regulations and codes and industry standards.
  • Safe work practices and regulations pertaining to the work.
  • Engineering mathematics through trigonometry.
  • Techniques for dealing with the public, in person and over the telephone, often where relations may be confrontational or strained.
  • Basic surveying principles and practices.
  • Basic materials and soils testing techniques and terminology.
  • Record keeping principles and practices.
  • Correct business English, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
  • Performing skilled inspections of varied public works and related projects.
  • Reading and interpreting drawings, plans, specifications and contracts.
  • Interpreting, explaining and enforcing a variety of codes, ordinances and regulations.
  • Maintaining clear, accurate and concise records and field sketches; exercising sound independent judgment within procedural guidelines.
  • Organizing, prioritizing and coordinating work activities and meeting critical deadlines.
  • Writing clear, accurate and concise logs, reports and correspondence.
  • Making accurate mathematical calculations.
  • Dealing successfully with the public, in person and over the telephone, often where relations may be confrontational or strained.
  • Contributing effectively to the accomplishment of team or work unit goals, objectives and activities.
  • Representing the City effectively in meetings with developers, contractors, representatives of business, community and professional groups and the public.

Salary & Benefits:
Salary Range: $33.91-$50.87 per hour DOQ. FLSA Status: Non-exempt. Benefits: Includes medical, dental, vision and life insurance (City contributes annually half the cost of the deductible to employee HSA), tuition reimbursement, paid time off, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).
Interested, qualified candidates are asked to submit a completed application and resume online at https://elmhurst.org/jobs . Offers of employment are subject to successful completion of background check, drug screen, and physical. This position will remain open until filled.
The City of Elmhurst is an equal opportunity employer.

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