Engineering Inspector

Salary: See Position Description
Location : 100 W. Woodstock Street, Crystal Lake, IL
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2026-17
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 05/05/2026

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 improvements, assist with the development of plans and specifications for annual capital programs, plan and permit reviews, field data collection to support engineering projects and responding to complaints.


The nature of the work performed requires a professional manner in all dealings with the public and City and department staff. Work requires the exercise of considerable judgment, initiative, and discretion along with the ability to learn and improve operational processes.


Some essential job functions include:

• Plan Review: Reviews construction plans and permit applications for compliance with applicable code or ordinance requirements for residential and commercial improvements; confers with engineers, owners, and contractors on required design modifications; and answers inquiries from the public and other departments.

• Field Inspection and Construction Observation: Inspects and approves assigned construction work performed by developers or private contractors hired by the City; ensures compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, and specifications; investigates complaints and gives information about construction requirements; assists with development of design plans and documents for annual capital programs and construction observation of said programs; and keeps records of inspections made and actions taken.

• Miscellaneous Tasks: Works and coordinates with other City departments; addresses resident complaints and concerns, and provides assistance for damage assessment during emergency response.

• Performs light survey/GPS work to determine existing elevations and grades and verify proposed elevations/grades.

• Calculate areas, volumes, perimeters, grades, and work with engineering computer applications.

• Independently provides technical assistance and a high level of quality customer service in a thorough and professional manner to members of the public regarding, engineering procedures and processes.

The successful candidate must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills and technical skills. Experience with CAD and GIS computer applications and GPS equipment is strongly desired. The candidate must also have outstanding organizational and time management skills, and be detail oriented with multi-tasking capabilities in a fast paced environment. Critical thinking and problem solving skills along with excellent customer service skills, including the ability to deal tactfully with the public and a high level of integrity. Knowledge of engineering, site construction, and zoning terminology as applicable to a municipal setting is strongly desired.

This position requires a combination of training and experience which provides the following minimum knowledge, abilities, and skills:

• High school diploma or equivalent, supplemented by at least five years of relevant working experience; or
• Graduation from a two or four-year college with a degree in Construction Management, Engineering Technology, A.A.S Degree in Construction Management Technology, or a related field; supplemented by at least one year of related working experience.
• General knowledge of construction documents and the ability to review the documents against codes and industry standard requirements.
• General knowledge and ability to conduct inspections of residential, commercial and industrial construction projects.
• Effective communication, both oral and written, with residents, businesses and public agencies.
• AUTOCAD or Microstation abilities are a plus, but not required.
• Surveying experience or use of a GPS device are a plus, but not required.
• Water main and water service construction knowledge are a plus, but not required.

Related working experience can include, however is not limited to, work in the construction trades as a contractor, foreman or inspector. Valid driver's license is required.

Anticipated starting salary range is $36.44 to $45.00 per hour depending on qualifications, with a competitive benefit package, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Full salary range is $36.44 to $52.55 per hour.


Offers of employment are subject to successful completion of background check and drug screen. Qualified individuals interested in being considered for the position should submit an employment application, available at and attach a letter of interest with resume.


This position will remain open until filled. Applications will be considered as received.


The City of Crystal Lake is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Crystal Lake provides an excellent benefit package to its full-time employees that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance as well as medical and dependent care flexible spending accounts, a retirement plan through Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund, paid holidays, paid vacation, and sick leave.