Tourism Inspector (Chicago)

Position Overview As a Tourism Inspector, you will evaluate lodging and dining establishments across North America for AAA Diamond Designation recognition and inclusion in AAA digital content. In this highly visible field-based role, you will conduct comprehensive property assessments, document findings, and serve as a trusted advisor to hospitality operators while helping maintain the integrity and value of the AAA Diamond program. To support territory coverage, we are seeking candidates who currently reside in the Chicago area and are within reasonable proximity to a major airport. Do you have a passion for travel, hospitality, and discovering exceptional guest experiences? Then apply today! What You Will Do: Conduct standardized on-site evaluations of hotels, resorts, and restaurants for potential AAA Diamond Designation recognition and inclusion in AAA digital content. Determine and document designation status, classification, and Diamond level for lodging and dining properties throughout North America. Develop and manage inspection schedules within an assigned territory, balancing travel efficiency, seasonal considerations, production deadlines, and opportunities to assess notable properties. Evaluate properties against established standards for cleanliness, physical condition, and customer service, including the use of ATP testing equipment as required. Gather, analyze, and document information to support inspection findings, designation decisions, and property reports. Create professional property photography, written descriptions, expert commentary, and recommendations for digital publications, social media, public relations initiatives, and other content needs. Advise property operators regarding facility status, designation requirements, policies, and evaluation processes. Manage territory coverage and complete evaluations within established production timelines. Investigate member complaints and recommend appropriate courses of action. Provide timely and accurate property information to support marketing and business development initiatives, including new listing opportunities and status changes. Communicate with hospitality industry professionals, club representatives, media contacts, and internal stakeholders to promote understanding of the Diamond Designation program. Represent AAA at hospitality industry events, trade shows, training sessions, and educational programs as assigned. Maintain accurate property records and complete required administrative reporting, including expenses, activity summaries, and production documentation. What You Will Need: Strong time and project management skills, with the ability to anticipate obstacles, adjust priorities, and meet deadlines. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly communicate property evaluations, territory updates, and recommendations. Ability to capture high-quality digital images and videos using a smartphone or tablet while conducting property assessments. Ability to use ATP testing equipment to accurately assess hotel surface cleanliness. Demonstrated self-awareness and a commitment to ongoing professional growth and development. Reliable transportation, a valid driver's license, and an acceptable driving record. Must be eligible for a passport and able to travel moderately to extensively throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Proficiency with modern business communication tools, including mobile devices, social media platforms, and Apple and Microsoft applications. Education and Qualifications: Associate degree required. Bachelor's degree preferred. Minimum of three (3) years of experience in hospitality, a travel-related field, and/or project management Hiring Range: $66,070 - $81,930 This position is also eligible for participation in AAA, Inc.'s Annual Incentive Plan. AAA, Inc. is committed to paying competitively and equitably. The posted range for this position represents competitive compensation based on market data, internal equity, and the skills and requirements of the position. The compensation offered will depend on your qualifications and experience. AAA, Inc. is not accepting unsolicited assistance from any search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee working at AAA, Inc., either by email, the Internet, or in any form and method, without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from AAA, Inc. will be deemed the sole property of AAA, Inc.