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Food Health Inspector Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

TRIGO

Quality Inspector

Clinton, TN

$17.50/hr

Must comply with local and company Health & Safety legislation, laws, and policies Organization ... and food industries. TRIGO Global Quality Solutions is committed to the core values of equal ...

Shambaugh-

Fire Protection Inspector

Goodlettsville, TN · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

... food processing, commercial, institutional, healthcare, pharmaceutical, and bio-fuel projects. Job ... Perform inspections in daily field inspections, reporting, and documentation of compliance.

SongTeller Hotel

Housekeeping Inspector

Nashville, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards * Monitor productivity and ... Including, full uniform, welcoming demeanor, no personal devices at anytime, food/beverage, and any ...

PNH Properties LLC

Housekeeping Inspector

Nashville, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards * Monitor productivity and ... Including, full uniform, welcoming demeanor, no personal devices at anytime, food/beverage, and any ...

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All JobsFood Health Inspector JobsFood Health Inspector Jobs in Tennessee

Food Health Inspector information

See Tennessee salary details

$22.2K

$49.9K

$89.9K

How much do food health inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for food health inspector in Tennessee is $49,864.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,900.00 and $57,600.00 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

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

Food Health Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Health Inspector job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,864 per year, or $24 per hour.

Environmentalist - Food & Safety (Health Services)

Shelby County Sheriff's Office

Memphis, TN • On-site

$40K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description


Position Summary
Conducts regular sanitation inspections of establishments permitted by local and state authorities and open to the public. Monitors sanitation conditions, documents findings, and assists with compliance efforts in accordance with applicable health and sanitation regulations.
Pay Grade: 47
Salary Commensurate with Experience and Education
Minimum Qualifications
  • Two (2) years of experience in the environmental health field; AND
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical, biological, chemical, environmental health sciences, or related field; OR
  • An equivalent combination of related education and/or experience.
  • PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Conducts routine sanitation and food safety inspections of permitted establishments, including food service facilities, schools, childcare centers, pools, lodging facilities, and personal service establishments, in accordance with established procedures.
  • Enforces local and state environmental health and food safety laws by identifying violations and documenting inspection findings in permitted establishments.
  • Educates operators on identified violations and compliance requirements, providing guidance on corrective actions and applicable food codes.
  • Investigates complaints related to foodborne illness and unsanitary conditions and conducts follow-up inspections as required.
  • Performs re-inspections and ongoing monitoring of permitted establishments at required intervals to verify continued compliance.
  • Initiates enforcement actions, including issuing violation notices and participating in environmental court proceedings when necessary.
  • Participates in required training, standardization, and quality assurance activities, including TDH and FDA training, to maintain professional competency and consistency.
  • Performs other related duties as required or directed.

KSAs
  • Knowledge of environmental health principles, including basic chemistry, biology, and public or community health as applied to sanitation and food safety.
  • Ability to interpret and apply environmental health laws and regulations during inspections of permitted establishments.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills to clearly explain inspection findings, violations, regulatory requirements, and compliance expectations.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, including planning and organizing daily inspection activities efficiently.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office or comparable county systems.

Special Requirements
  • Must possess a valid Tennessee driver's license or secure one by date of employment.
  • Must have access to an operable automobile and meet County requirements of automobile insurance upon date of employment.
  • Must be able to work occasional weekends and/or modified work schedules, including adjusted days or hours, as operational needs require.
  • Must successfully complete FDA-ORA-U Web-based Pre and Post Food Safety Courses within six (6) months of employment.
  • Must maintain all required licenses, certifications, and training credentials throughout the duration of employment.

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to stoop, squat, crawl, and perform other physical duties as needed to investigate environmental health complaints as needed.
  • Must be able to lift or pull up to 35 pounds at a time.
  • Must be able to work in all types of weather.
  • Must successfully pass a physical assessment.

Disclaimer
This position is subject to a background check for any convictions that have a substantial relationship to potential job duties. Only convictions that are substantially related to potential job duties will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Shelby County Resident Disclaimer
All employees hired after September 1, 1986, must be residents of Shelby County and shall continue to reside in the County as a condition of their employment. The residency requirement shall not apply to certain public safety/civil service employees. This means exemption from this policy is in effect for the following departments and positions: (1) Sheriff Deputy Patrol Officers, Deputy Jailers and Dispatchers, employed by the Sheriff Department, (2) Correction Officers employed by the Division of Corrections, (3) Firefighters, Paramedics and Dispatchers employed by the Shelby County Fire Department. The residency exemption for public safety/civil service employees does not include appointed positions with the Sheriff's Office, Division of Corrections or the Fire Department.

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