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Food Health Inspector Jobs in Cambridge, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Former Health Inspectors or 3rd Party Food Safety Auditors * Multi-Unit Restaurant Managers * Chefs ... Culinary Specialists Additional Qualifications Include: * Certified Food Safety Pro: Serve-Safe ...

Food Services Worker

Quincy, MA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Assists in coordination with the city health inspector(s) to ensure compliance with food safety regulations in the kitchen, storeroom, and dining room areas and will display food service permits and ...

Food & Beverage Reports to: Executive Chef FLSA Designation: EXEMPT JOB SUMMARY This position is ... Escort health inspector on all facility inspections and ensure scores consistently above 95.

Executive Steward

Boston, MA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Food & Beverage Reports to: Executive Chef FLSA Designation: EXEMPT JOB SUMMARY This position is ... Escort health inspector on all facility inspections and ensure scores consistently above 95.

Food & Beverage Reports to: Executive Chef FLSA Designation: EXEMPT JOB SUMMARY This position is ... Escort health inspector on all facility inspections and ensure scores consistently above 95.

Food Quality Technician

Brockton, MA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Inspect product weights, package seals, coding, labeling, temperatures, and other critical control ... Health Spending Account (HSA) * Transportation benefits * Employee Assistance Program * Time Off ...

Food Service Supervisor

Boston, MA · On-site

$27 - $40/hr

Coordinate health and regulatory inspections. * Investigate, resolve, and document complaints or incidents occurring within the unit. * Assess food and non-food inventory and adjust needs accordingly.

Food Safety Specialist

Framingham, MA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Conducting Audits and Inspections * Implementing and Monitoring food safety * Training and ... Tuition Reimbursement benefits (for FT Colleagues) Health and Wellness * Full-time colleagues are ...

Conducting Audits and Inspections * Implementing and Monitoring food safety * Training and ... Tuition Reimbursement benefits (for FT Colleagues) Health and Wellness * Full-time colleagues are ...

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Food Health Inspector information

See Cambridge, MA salary details

$26.8K

$60K

$108.2K

How much do food health inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for food health inspector in Cambridge, MA is $60,047.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $69,400.00 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 Cambridge, MA?

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

What cities near Cambridge, MA are hiring for Food Health Inspector jobs?

Cities near Cambridge, MA with the most Food Health Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Health Inspector job openings in Cambridge, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,047 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Sr. Public Health Inspector

Town of Brookline

Brookline, MA

$39.16 - $41.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Sr. Public Health Inspector
Brookline Public Health – Environmental Health Division

Salary Range: $39.16 – $41.13 hourly

The Town of Brookline is seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Public Health Inspector to perform inspectional and investigative work related to the enforcement of health and safety codes, environmental protection, and disease control. This position plays a critical role in safeguarding public health through education, regulation, inspection, and enforcement activities across a wide range of facilities and environmental conditions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Enforce federal, state, and local public health laws and regulations
  • Inspect, license, and regulate food service establishments, retail food stores, nursing homes, day care centers, and special events
  • Investigate food-borne illness outbreaks and educate food handlers on safe practices
  • Review plans for new and renovated food establishments
  • Respond to complaints involving unsanitary or unsafe living conditions, lead paint, asbestos, septic systems, drinking water, pests, solid and hazardous waste, air quality, and other environmental health concerns
  • Conduct inspections of pools, camps, lodging houses, massage and body art establishments, tanning salons, and demolition projects
  • Coordinate interdepartmental inspections
  • Initiate enforcement actions and pursue non-compliance cases through administrative or judicial procedures
  • Maintain accurate inspection records and prepare reports
  • Performs other related duties as assigned

Education & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in public health, environmental health science, or a related field and two (2) years of relevant public or environmental health experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

This is a professional inspectional position requiring sound judgment, technical expertise, and the ability to work independently in both office and field environments. The ideal candidate has excellent communication skills and a strong knowledge of public health and environmental regulations and inspection practices; a demonstrated ability to interpret and enforce codes fairly and consistently while maintaining accurate inspection records; and the ability to assess health risks and determine appropriate corrective action.

Licenses & Certifications Required:

  • Eligibility for Massachusetts Registered Sanitarian
  • Valid Massachusetts Class D Driver’s License
  • Certified Food Safety Manager
  • Certified Soil Evaluator
  • Septic System Inspector
  • Licensed Special Use Pesticide Applicator
  • Licensed Lead Determination Inspector
  • Certified Pool Operator
  • (Certified Food Safety Professional preferred.)

The Town of Brookline offers a competitive salary scale of $39.16 – $41.13 hourly, and excellent benefits, including four weeks of vacation, comprehensive health plans, and participation in a defined benefit pension system.

Please apply with resume and cover letter by September 15, 2026 for priority consideration.