More hoops there for foreign teachers to jump through.

Indeed! And that is not the only thing there to be wary of...there are many! Esp. the local Chinese there are similar to say Russians in Siberia, a tough breed who tolerate no nonsense and were sent there to do tough work, it may pay to mind your Ps and Qs there, things don't operate the same way as the other provinces of China!!! I have visited baotou and hohhot so mark my words when I say this, it is not meant in jest, not at all!

San Migs, it's very kind of you to provide your email address for anyone who wants to know more about teaching in IM. I agree with what you say, and I do have experience of teaching there too. Last time I visited the PSB in the capital, I saw two coloured foreigners applying for RP's with their FAO present being interviewed by a penpusher in a police uniform. He was obviously checking out their English levels. In contrast, a white guy seeking the same had no such embarrassing formalities to undergo. Make of it what you will. I was waiting at a separate counter, where I was renewing my Chinese visa when I witnessed the aforesaid 'formalities' taking place. My advice mirrors yours. Avoid teaching there. The weather is extreme, very cold in winter, and hot in summer, 35+ centigrade during the height of that season.
The south of Shanxi is better, if you prefer northern China, and don't mind pollution caused by coal being present and the burning of it.