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Sewer Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Sewer Repair Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Run camera inspections -- televise sewer lines, locate defects and depths, and record findings for the customer file. * Diagnose line failures -- identify root intrusion, grease, bellies, offset or ...

Industrial Sewer

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

**INDUSTRIAL SEWER - Pay Range= $20-$24/hr. ** This position is temporary with an opportunity to be ... Inspect completed work * Accurately document completed work * Maintain clean workspace Location:

Industrial Sewer

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

INDUSTRIAL SEWER - Pay Range= $20-$24/hr. This position is temporary with an opportunity to be ... Inspect completed work * Accurately document completed work * Maintain clean workspace Location:

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Drain & Sewer Sales Technician

Aurora, IL · On-site

$150K - $300K/yr

Inspect residential drain lines, sewer systems, and related equipment * Identify problems and recommend practical repair, replacement, or upgrade options * Present solutions involving drain cleaning ...

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Sewer Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.2K

$56.6K

$102K

How much do sewer inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for sewer inspector in Chicago, IL is $56,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $65,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sewer inspector do?

A Sewer Inspector examines sewer systems to identify blockages, structural issues, and maintenance needs. They use tools like cameras, sensors, and visual inspections to assess underground pipelines. Their work helps prevent leaks, contamination, and costly repairs. Inspectors may also ensure compliance with local regulations and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sewer inspector?

To thrive as a Sewer Inspector, you need a solid understanding of sewer systems, civil engineering basics, and public health or safety standards, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical certifications. Familiarity with inspection technologies such as CCTV equipment, pipe locators, and GIS mapping systems is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills distinguish top candidates in this field. These skills are crucial for accurately assessing sewer conditions, ensuring regulatory compliance, and collaborating with municipal teams for community safety.

What are the most common challenges faced by sewer inspectors on the job?

Sewer Inspectors often encounter confined spaces, hazardous environments, and the need to work in varying weather conditions, which can make inspections physically demanding. Adapting to unexpected findings, such as blockages or structural damage, requires creative problem-solving and quick decision-making. Inspectors must also carefully document their findings and communicate effectively with engineering teams, contractors, or municipal officials to ensure that maintenance or repairs are accurately prioritized. While the role can be challenging, it offers a clear sense of accomplishment by contributing to public health and infrastructure integrity.

How do you become a sewer inspector?

To become a sewer inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical courses in sewer systems, plumbing, or environmental technology. Some positions require certification or licensing, such as OSHA safety training or specialized sewer inspection certifications, and familiarity with tools like CCTV cameras is beneficial.

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

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

Infographic showing various Sewer Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $56,595 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Sewer Repair Technician

Madden Sewer & Drain Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

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Job description

About the Role

We are hiring a Sewer Repair Technician to run residential service calls as well as support large projects to repair or replace sewer lines.

You will be the person the homeowner meets — diagnosing the problem, clearing and repairing sewer and drain lines, explaining what you found in plain language, including any recommendations for additional repairs, and leaving the property better than you found it.

No plumbing license is required. What matters is mechanical ability, a strong work ethic, and the willingness to learn this trade properly. If you have run a rodding machine, a jetter, or a camera, you will be up to speed quickly.

What You’ll Do

  • Clear blockages — rod, cable, and hydro-jet residential sewer and drain lines, including main lines, kitchen and laundry lines, floor drains, and catch basins.
  • Run camera inspections — televise sewer lines, locate defects and depths, and record findings for the customer file.
  • Diagnose line failures — identify root intrusion, grease, bellies, offset or separated joints, cracked or collapsed pipe, and improper pitch, and recommend the right fix.
  • Perform repairs — spot repairs, sewer line replacement, backwater valve and cleanout installation, and related excavation work alongside the crew.
  • Service pumps and related equipment — ejector pumps, sump pumps, and overhead sewer components as assigned.
  • Explain the work to the homeowner — walk the customer through what you found, present repair options and pricing clearly, and answer questions without pressure.
  • Document every job — complete work orders, photos, and camera footage in our field software before leaving the site, and collect payment where required.
  • Protect the property — use floor protection and containment, control odors and mess, and clean up fully at the end of every call.
  • Work safely — follow JULIE / 811 and Chicago DIGGER locate procedures, respect tolerance zones and APWA color codes, and follow trench and confined-space safety rules without exception.

What We’re Looking For

  • Valid driver’s license and a driving record acceptable to our insurance carrier.
  • Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with your hands and with powered equipment.
  • Dependable — shows up on time, every day, ready to work.
  • Able to speak with homeowners respectfully and clearly, and stay professional in stressful situations. Sewer backups are bad days for our customers.
  • Comfortable working in basements, crawl spaces, tight quarters, and around raw sewage with proper PPE.
  • Basic comfort with a smartphone or tablet for work orders, photos, and payment.
  • Able to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States.

Nice to Have (Not Required)

  • Prior experience in sewer and drain cleaning, plumbing, excavation, or underground utility work.
  • Experience operating rodding machines, hydro-jetters, sewer cameras, and line locators.
  • Experience running or spotting for a mini excavator or backhoe.
  • Bilingual English / Spanish.

Physical Requirements

  • Regularly lift and carry up to 75 lbs, and occasionally move heavier equipment with assistance.
  • Bend, kneel, crawl, climb ladders and stairs, and work in confined spaces throughout the day.
  • Work outdoors in all Chicago weather conditions, year-round.
  • Operate hand tools, powered equipment, and vibrating tools for extended periods.

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Occasional overtime on week days as needed.

Company Description

Madden Sewer & Drain is a family-owned residential sewer, drain, and plumbing company serving Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

We take pride in doing the job right, treating customers and their homes with respect, and standing behind the quality of our work. We are looking for technicians who take pride in their work and want to learn and grow within the company.

Madden Sewer & Drain is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.