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Food Health Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Field Inspector I

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Under general supervision, the Field Inspector I performs inspection of grain and food oil ... At all times, adopts safe behavior by exercising due regard for the health and safety of SGS ...

Field Inspector I

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Under general supervision, the Field Inspector I performs inspection of grain and food oil ... At all times, adopts safe behavior by exercising due regard for the health and safety of SGS ...

Field Inspector I

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Under general supervision, the Field Inspector I performs inspection of grain and food oil ... At all times, adopts safe behavior by exercising due regard for the health and safety of SGS ...

Construction Inspector

Chester, VA · On-site

$47K - $58K/yr

We specialize in power generation & utilities, chemicals, food & beverage, forest products ... Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance * 401k & ESOP * Life Insurance * Short & Long-Term Disability

Construction Inspector

Chester, VA · On-site

$47K - $58K/yr

We specialize in power generation & utilities, chemicals, food & beverage, forest products ... Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance * 401k & ESOP * Life Insurance * Short & Long-Term Disability

Construction Inspector

Chester, VA · On-site

$47K - $58K/yr

We specialize in power generation & utilities, chemicals, food & beverage, forest products ... Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance * 401k & ESOP * Life Insurance * Short & Long-Term Disability

... health support; food services; motorpool and logistics operations; and physical and technical security services. As the Bio-Retention Pond Inspector , you will support environmental compliance ...

... health support; food services; motorpool and logistics operations; and physical and technical security services. As the Bio-Retention Pond Inspector , you will support environmental compliance ...

... Health inspections * Represent TFK culture when communicating with guests in any way and respond to ... That means better food for our guests and the planet. By crafting "Real Food for Real Life" we ...

Perform routine inspections and maintenance tasks on facilities equipment. * Monitor inventory of ... Min 16.50 - Max 18.00 BENEFITS Free Play & 1/2 price food! Health, dental, vision, 401(k) team ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Health Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$24.3K

$54.5K

$98.2K

How much do food health inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for food health inspector in Virginia is $54,468.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $63,000.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Food Health Inspector job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,468 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Field Inspector I

SGS U.S. Holding Inc.

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


SGS rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

Company Description

We are SGS - the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer, and more interconnected world.

Job Description


Under general supervision, the Field Inspector I performs inspection of grain and food oil transport systems and loading/ unloading processes, and sampling of grains, food oils, and other commodities per established government regulations and standard operating procedures.
Job Functions

  • Performs Inspection/sampling of containers, barges, and rail cars at different locations
  • Supervises loading and counts of agricultural products in accordance with applicable standards and procedures
  • Physically measures, weighs, samples, and takes temperatures (where applicable) of a variety of agricultural products in accordance with applicable standards and procedures
  • This role will require climbing ladders at heights above 2 metres.
  • Calculates the transferred quantities (where applicable) and performs full reconciliation of the same
  • Performs initial analysis of the different grains, splitting the samples to speed the process for the Grain Graders
  • Transports commodity samples from the loading terminals to the office and vice versa
  • May perform basic laboratory testing of samples under supervision
  • Takes detailed notes and photographs to document the inspection process, and reports all required field activities as per National/Regional field forms
  • Maintains regular communication with administrative staff with reference to job status, progress, problems, etc
  • Stays informed of and adheres to the latest industry and client procedures
  • At all times, adopts safe behavior by exercising due regard for the health and safety of SGS employees and clients, in line with SGS policies and procedures
  • At all times, comply with the SGS Code of Integrity and Professional Conduct
  • Adheres to internal standards, policies, and procedures
  • Performs other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • High School Diploma (Required)
  • TWIC card (Required)
  • Active Driver License (Required)
  • Associate degree in an agriculture-related field (Preferred)
  • 1-2 years of experience in grain or oil inspection and/or grain grading operation (Preferred)
Additional Information

Rate: $20-$22 Per Hour

SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.

This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

If you are applying for a position within the United States and you have difficulty completing the on-line employment application because of a disability, please call 201-508-3149 for assistance and leave a message. You will receive a call back.  Please note, this phone number is not for general employment information, but is only for individuals who are experiencing difficulty applying for a position due to a disability

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines


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