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Food Health Inspector Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Perform routine inspections and maintenance tasks on facilities equipment. * Monitor inventory of ... 2 price food! Health, dental, vision, 401(k) team member match, free mental well-being platform ...

Food Safety Specialist

Orange, CA · 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 ...

Golf Food & Beverage Attendant

San Jacinto, CA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Inspect any problems with equipment, trash or storage containers, and report any and all unsafe ... Wellness Program (Annual Health Fair, Wellness Education, and Incentive Programs) * Paid Time Off ...

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Collect samples from the machines while in the middle of processing to visually inspect the quality ... Clean equipment and workspaces according to health and safety rules and regulations Job Skills ...

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Food Health Inspector information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$25.6K

$57.3K

$103.3K

How much do food health inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for food health inspector in Riverside, CA is $57,316.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,200.00 and $66,200.00 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 Riverside, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Food Health Inspector jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Health Inspector jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Food Health Inspector jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Food Health Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Health Inspector job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,316 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Environmental Health Specialist II

San Bernardino County

San Bernardino, CA

$74K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


San Bernardino County rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

486th of 849 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Job The Public Health Department is recruiting for Environmental Health Specialists (EHS) II who perform journey-level work in a specialized program, such as Food Protection, Recreational Health, Insect and Rodent Vector Control, Water and Waste Water, and Waste Management. Duties include: performing investigations and inspections for assigned program; recommending appropriate action or fine for offenders of environmental health laws; testifying as an expert witness in court proceedings; reviewing and approving development and construction plans for compliance with health and safety codes, local ordinances, and regulations; and providing instruction and information in person to government entities, professional organizations community groups, contractors, and individuals. Positions may be assigned to district offices located in San Bernardino, Hesperia, or Rancho Cucamonga.

The eligible list established from this recruitment will also be used to fill vacancies across specialized programs such as, Street Vending Education and Enforcement. Ensure to indicate your willingness to work in specialized programs under the supplemental questionnaire of your application. STREET VENDING EDUCATION AND ENFORCEMENT Street Vending Education and Enforcement coordinates with the community as well as city and county code enforcement agencies to ensure that street food vendors are in compliance with state and local laws, regulations and ordinances.

Key responsibilities for these positions may include: Educate street vendors and the public regarding laws and regulations for the safe handling of food sold to the public. Enforce California Health and Safety Code regarding safe food handling practices. Embargo food when it is determined that the food is unsafe or not from an approved source.

Investigate non-permitted street vending activities throughout San Bernardino County in cooperation with county and city code enforcement. Participate with code enforcement staff during enforcement activities. Through applicable Memorandums of Understanding, work with cities to assist them with education and enforcement of non-permitted street vending activities to ensure food safety and address the public health and safety concerns associated with street vending.

Enforce provisions of the California Retail Food Code (CalCode) related to mobile food facilities, temporary food facilities and compact mobile food operations as well as other related and applicable sections of CalCode. For more detailed information, refer to the Environmental Health Specialist II job description. Human Resources is also accepting applications for EHS Trainee and EHS I, which all require a separate application.

It is to your advantage to review the requirements and apply as appropriate. EXCELLENT BENEFITS To review job-specific benefits, refer to: Summary of Benefits and the Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) The County also offers an alternative Modified Benefits Option (MBO) that provides a wage differential. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT Work Schedule: May be required to work some evenings, weekends, and on-call.

Street Vending Education and Enforcement Work Schedule: Incumbents hired into Street Vending Education and Enforcement positions are required to work evenings, weekends, and on-call. 4-10 work schedule may be permitted. Physical: May be required to bend, stoop, kneel, crawl, or hike when necessary during the investigation process.

Travel/License: A valid California Class C Driver License is required to carry out the essential job-related functions of this position. Mileage reimbursement and proof of automobile liability insurance must be maintained. Pre-Employment Process: Prior to appointment, applicants must pass a background investigation which includes verification of employment history and education, fingerprinting, physical exam, and drug screening.

Sponsorship: Please note San Bernardino County is not able to consider candidates who will require visa sponsorship at the time of application or in the future. Minimum Requirements Applicants must meet both of the following certification and experience requirements: Certification: Must possess and maintain a valid certificate of registration as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) issued by the State of California Department of Public Health (CDPH). -AND- Experience*: One (1) year of full-time equivalent experience as a REHS performing environmental health inspections and investigations for a public agency in California.

*Note: ALL experience must be clearly detailed and explained on the Work Experience section of your application in order to be evaluated. Experience as a Trainee must be clearly separated from REHS Journey-level experience on the application. Desired Qualifications The ideal incumbent will possess four (4) or more years of full-time equivalent experience** as an REHS, which includes at least one (1) year in two (2) or more Environmental Health Services programs (Food Protection, Recreational Health, Insect and Vector Rodent Control, Housing and Property Improvement, Land Use, Water, Waste Water, and Waste Management) in a public agency.

**Note: ALL experience must be clearly detailed and explained on the Work Experience section of your application in order to be evaluated. Experience as a Trainee must be clearly separated from REHS Journey-level experience on the application. Selection Process There will be a competitive evaluation of qualifications based on a review of the application and supplemental questionnaire.

It is to your advantage to be explicit in your responses on the application and supplemental questionnaire. Application Procedure: Applications will be accepted continuously and reviewed periodically. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible as this recruitment may close at any time.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application and/or supplemental questionnaire. To ensure timely and successful submission of your online application, please allow ample time to complete and submit your application before the filing deadline. Applicants will be automatically logged-out if they have not submitted the application and all required materials prior to the posted deadline.

Once your application has been successfully submitted you will receive an onscreen confirmation and an email. We recommend that you save and/or print these for your records. Please note: if you do not receive an onscreen confirmation and an email acknowledging our receipt of your application, we have not received your application.

If you need technical assistance, follow this link to review the Government Jobs online application guide or contact their Toll-Free Applicant Support line at (855) 524-5627. Please note that Human Resources is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by your internet connection, computer, or browser when submitting an application. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) / Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): San Bernardino County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant employer, dedicated to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants.

ADA Accommodation: If you have a disability and need accommodations during the testing process, please submit the Special Testing Accommodations Request Form (Download PDF) within one week of the recruitment filing deadline. Veterans' Preference: Eligible veterans and their spouses or widows/widowers who are not current County employees may receive additional Veterans' Preference points. For details and instructions on how to request these points, please refer to the Veterans' Preference Policy.

For more important details, review the Applicant Information and County Employment Process.


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