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Water Inspector Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

City of Quincy, Illinois

Plumbing Inspector

Quincy, IL · On-site

Conducts on-site inspections of commercial and residential building projects throughout the City to ... Inspects plumbing systems to verify the absence of cross connections between the City's water ...

City of Quincy

Plumbing Inspector

Quincy, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Conducts on-site inspections of commercial and residential building projects throughout the City to ... Inspects plumbing systems to verify the absence of cross connections between the City's water ...

City of Quincy

Plumbing Inspector

Quincy, IL · On-site

... water sources that prevent used and contaminated water from re-entering potable water ... re-inspections to determine actions taken to bring the structure into compliance with ...

ERM

Inspector (Field Based)

Ohio, IL · On-site

ERM is hiring Inspectors to perform inspections of water service lines, and work in field teams of two to determine the service line material. Work will occur in properties in Pittsburgh, Sharon, and ...

Delve Underground

Construction Inspector

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41.53 - $59.42/hr

The Inspector will work at a project field office in the Chicago area primarily on water and ... wastewater construction projects. The successful candidate for this position will have experience ...

Delve Underground

Construction Inspector

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41.53 - $59.42/hr

The Inspector will work at a project field office in the Chicago area primarily on water and ... wastewater construction projects. The successful candidate for this position will have experience ...

Delve Underground

Construction Inspector

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41.53 - $59.42/hr

The Inspector will work at a project field office in the Chicago area primarily on water and ... wastewater construction projects. The successful candidate for this position will have experience ...

Delve Underground

Construction Inspector

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41.53 - $59.42/hr

The Inspector will work at a project field office in the Chicago area primarily on water and ... wastewater construction projects. The successful candidate for this position will have experience ...

Delve Underground

Construction Inspector

Chicago, IL · On-site

$41.53 - $59.42/hr

The Inspector will work at a project field office in the Chicago area primarily on water and ... wastewater construction projects. The successful candidate for this position will have experience ...

Water Remediation Technology

Be Seen First

Field Service Technician-Water Treatment-Illinois

Oswego, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Perform preventative maintenance, system inspections, and basic field testing. * Document media exchange activities, equipment inspections, testing results, materials used, and other service ...

Aquaamerica

Water Treatment Technician

Kankakee, IL · On-site

$30.04/hr

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... Perform and record inspections, tests, and data on the systems' and facilities' operations.

MADRID CPWG

Senior Construction Inspector

Pittsfield, IL

$65K - $75K/yr

Senior Construction Inspector Location: Pittsfield, IL DELIVERING SOLUTIONS IS WHAT WE DO. It's our ... Since 1985, we have been assisting rural communities and water districts in meeting their public ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Inspector JobsWater Inspector Jobs in Illinois

Water Inspector information

See Illinois salary details

$23.7K

$53.2K

$95.9K

How much do water inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for water inspector in Illinois is $53,237.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,300.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water inspector do?

A Water Inspector is responsible for examining water systems and supplies to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. Their job includes inspecting water treatment plants, pipelines, and distribution systems for compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. Water Inspectors also collect water samples, conduct tests for contaminants, and generate reports on their findings. Their work helps protect public health by ensuring safe and clean water is delivered to communities.

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

To thrive as a Water Inspector, you need a solid understanding of water quality standards, environmental regulations, and inspection procedures, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with water sampling equipment, laboratory analysis software, and regulatory compliance systems is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help in reporting findings and interacting with stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate monitoring, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public health and environmental resources.

What are some typical challenges water inspectors face during routine site visits?

Water Inspectors often encounter challenges such as accessing remote or hazardous inspection sites, dealing with uncooperative property owners, and adapting to varying weather conditions. They must remain vigilant when identifying potential safety or compliance issues, often requiring keen attention to detail and strong communication skills. Effective collaboration with local agencies and staying updated on regulatory changes are also essential to ensure inspections are thorough and accurate.

What is the difference between Water Inspector vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater InspectorWater Quality Technician
CertificationsOften requires state or local water inspection certificationsTypically requires certifications like NALMS or water testing certifications
Work EnvironmentInspects water systems, treatment plants, and distribution networksConducts water sampling, testing, and analysis in labs or field sites
Employer & IndustryPublic water agencies, municipalities, environmental agenciesEnvironmental labs, water treatment facilities, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing inspection roles in water safetyIndividuals interested in water testing and analysis roles

Water Inspectors focus on inspecting water systems and ensuring compliance with safety standards, often working in the field. Water Quality Technicians primarily perform water sampling and laboratory testing to analyze water quality. While both roles involve water safety, their daily tasks and certifications differ, making each role distinct in the water industry.

How to become a water inspector?

To become a water inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant training or certification in water quality or environmental health. Many roles require knowledge of water testing procedures, safety protocols, and sometimes a state-specific license or certification, which can be obtained through accredited programs or agencies. Gaining experience in environmental science, public health, or related fields can also improve job prospects.
Water Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Inspector job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,237 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Senior Water/Wastewater Facilities Inspector

Chicago, IL • On-site

Trilon Group
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Trilon Groupexternal

$30 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Senior Water/Wastewater Facilities Inspector
Department: Water/Wastewater
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Chicago, IL
Reporting To: Brandt Zentner
Compensation: $30.00 - $55.00 / hour
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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