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Food Health Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

idexcel

Mechanical Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20/hr

... healthcare, manufacturing, banking & financial services, food & commodities trading and federal ... Mechanical Inspector 11/21/2016 - 9/22/2017 San Jose, CA 95131 United States $20/hr on W2 ...

Abbott

Inspector II, Receiving

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $45/hr

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our ... Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, other regulatory requirements, Company policies ...

Abbott

Inspector II, Receiving

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $45/hr

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our ... Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, other regulatory requirements, Company policies ...

Abbott

Inspector II, Receiving

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $45/hr

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our ... Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, other regulatory requirements, Company policies ...

Banks Power

Quality Inspector

Azusa, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Employee Assistance Program, a confidential program dedicated to supporting the emotional health ... Food Truck Fridays * Employee Referral Program * Education Assistance Program * Friends & Family ...

Abbott

Inspector II, Receiving

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $45/hr

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our ... Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, other regulatory requirements, Company policies ...

Abbott

Inspector II, Receiving

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $45/hr

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our ... Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, other regulatory requirements, Company policies ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFood Health Inspector JobsFood Health Inspector Jobs in California

Food Health Inspector information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$54.2K

$97.7K

How much do food health inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for food health inspector in California is $54,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $62,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food health inspector?

Food Health Inspectors, also known as food safety inspectors or sanitarians, are professionals responsible for ensuring that food establishments comply with health and safety regulations. They inspect restaurants, food processing plants, and other food-related businesses for cleanliness, proper food handling, storage practices, and sanitation standards. Their work helps prevent foodborne illnesses by identifying violations, educating staff, and enforcing corrective actions. Inspectors may also investigate complaints and respond to outbreaks of foodborne illness.

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

To thrive as a Food Health Inspector, you need knowledge of food safety regulations, inspection techniques, and a relevant degree in environmental health or a related field. Familiarity with inspection software, laboratory testing tools, and certifications such as the Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain objective under pressure are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate inspections, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public health.

How does a food health inspector typically collaborate with restaurant staff during inspections?

Food Health Inspectors work closely with restaurant staff to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. During inspections, they communicate openly with managers and kitchen staff, explaining regulations and observing food handling practices. Inspectors aim to educate staff about proper procedures, answer questions, and provide feedback to help prevent violations. Their approach is generally collaborative, focusing on improving food safety standards rather than simply penalizing non-compliance.

What is the difference between Food Health Inspector vs Food Safety Specialist?

AspectFood Health InspectorFood Safety Specialist
Required CredentialsFood safety certifications, health department trainingFood safety certifications, sometimes additional industry-specific training
Work EnvironmentInspecting restaurants, food processing plants, public facilitiesDeveloping safety protocols, conducting training, analyzing food safety data
Employer & Industry UsageHealth departments, government agenciesFood companies, consulting firms, regulatory agencies

Food Health Inspectors primarily focus on inspecting food establishments to ensure compliance with health regulations, while Food Safety Specialists develop safety protocols and provide training to prevent foodborne illnesses. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within the food industry, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

How do I become a food health inspector?

To become a food health inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by postsecondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field. Many states require passing a certification exam and gaining on-the-job training, with some jurisdictions requiring specific licensing or certification to conduct inspections and enforce health regulations.

How hard is it to be a food health inspector?

Becoming a food health inspector requires completing relevant training, obtaining certifications such as food safety licenses, and passing a state or local exam. The job involves inspecting food establishments, enforcing health regulations, and often working irregular hours, which can be physically demanding and detail-oriented.

How much do food health inspectors make in the US?

Food health inspectors in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, with higher earnings possible with experience, certifications, and in certain regions. Salaries can vary based on location, level of experience, and the specific agency or organization they work for.

Is there a demand for food health inspectors?

Food health inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing public health regulations and the need to ensure food safety in restaurants, processing plants, and other food establishments. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as food safety standards become more stringent and inspections increase, often requiring certification and knowledge of health codes.

What are popular job titles related to Food Health Inspector jobs in California?

For Food Health Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Health Inspector jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Health Inspector jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Food Health Inspector jobs?

Cities in California with the most Food Health Inspector job openings:

Food Health Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Health Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,220 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Food Safety and Quality Assurance Program Manager

Compass Group

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$100K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,098 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

349th of 500 rated business services

Job description

Salary: $100,000 - $118,000 /year

Pay Grade: 15 

Other Forms of Compensation:  

As the leader in business and industry dining, Eurest is the company to join if you want a rewarding career packed with limitless opportunities. We feed the employees of the nation's largest and most-prestigious companies -- in every state and across all industries. As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive dining rooms with on-site catering through vending innovations and more.

Our company is innovative, high performing and fast growing. Our teammates are enthusiastic, committed to quality and thrive on consistently delivering unparalleled results. And did we mention we work with exciting companies and at interesting locations? Come grow your career with Eurest.

Job Summary

The Manager of QA and Safety is responsible for learning Compass QA Standards, developing and maintaining all QA programs, meeting USDA, FDA, and customer requirements, and ensuring the quality and safety of supplied goods. Must have a strong knowledge of Preventive Controls for Human Food.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work closely with Compass QA at Microsoft to assist with alignment to standards

• Attend Corp QA Meetings virtually for updates on standards and continuing education

• Assist with HACCP Certification of the Catering Central Kitchen

• Possible CPR Instructor Certification with HSI, as per Corp direction

• Have access to Origami and ability to pull reports

• Have access to the Safety BI Dashboard, able to analyze data to assist with directional Safety policy, training and awareness

• Monitor Certifications: DAWSO, Safety Pledge CPR, Serv Safe

• SevSafe Instructor and proctor

• Create KPI’s in regards to safety that measure the success of Food Safety and Safety

◦ IFR

◦ FSI

◦ Health Department Scores

◦ Steritech scores

Training & Development

• Lead food safety and safety orientation for all hourly and management associates.

• Conduct QA onboarding for new hires and ongoing training, including Job Safety Analysis (JSA) for equipment.

• Review the Associate Handbook and Passport (Port of Call 7 – Food Safety & Sanitation).

• Deliver refresher training for hourly and salaried associates as needed.

• Conduct QA orientation for all new managers.

• Facilitate Compass-approved ServSafe training for managers and persons-in-charge.

• Develop weekly food safety training topics and ensure all lines of business conduct Nudge Plus pre-shift meetings.

• Provide coaching and guidance to managers on food safety best practices and training requirements.

Audits, Inspections & Compliance

• Conduct monthly QA and safety audits across all lines of business.

• Collect, review, and evaluate monthly self-inspections for quality, completeness, and compliance.

• Review corrective action plans from third-party audits, health inspections, client audits, and internal QA assessments.

• Analyze audit and inspection trends to identify compliance gaps and improvement opportunities.

• Monitor HACCP compliance and overall food safety standards.

• Prepare monthly QA and safety reports for Corporate QA and District Leadership.

• Identify barriers to compliance and implement corrective actions and operational guidance.

Safety & Incident Management

• Lead safety incident and injury reporting, investigations, and root-cause analysis in partnership with operational leaders.

• Monitor and respond to product complaints and reports of foodborne illness.

• Partner with Corporate QA to manage food safety investigations and complaint resolution.

• Host monthly safety meetings for salaried and hourly teams.

Operational Support & Continuous Improvement

• Provide one-on-one coaching to managers to improve food safety and quality compliance.

• Communicate policy updates, best practices, and food safety initiatives to operations teams.

• Develop and maintain written operating procedures and food safety documentation.

• Collaborate with the Audio-Visual and Events teams to develop and implement safety programs. 

Education & Experience

◦ Bachelor's degree or equivalent, and/or 5+ years of experience in hospitality or food service with a focus on quality assurance and food safety.

Required Certifications (one or more)

◦ Certified Professional – Food Safety (CPFS)

◦ Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS)

◦ Registered Sanitarian (RS)

◦ California ServSafe Proctor Certification

Preferred Qualifications

◦ Bilingual (English/Spanish)

◦ Excellent verbal and written communication skills

◦ Experience working in a unionized environment

◦ Proficient in Microsoft Office applications

◦ Strong knowledge of:

▪ FDA Food Code

▪ State Retail Food Establishment Regulations

  • Compass Group Quality Assurance Standards

Apply to Eurest today!

Eurest is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information. 

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026_Wage-Transparency_Eurest.pdf 

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Eurest maintains a drug-free workplace.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

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