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

Package Inspector

Corona, CA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... food) * Experience with AQL sampling (ANSI/ASQ Z1.4) and use of measuring instruments preferred ... Health Insurance -- premium 100% covered by employer for the employee * Paid Time Off (PTO) * Paid ...

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 ...

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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 Sep 14, 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.

Package Inspector

Corona, CA • On-site

CTK USA INC
1 - 10 employees

$18 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

About the Role

CTK OTC Laboratories is seeking a Package Incoming Inspector to perform receipt inspection of incoming packaging materials and components used in the manufacture of our OTC drug and cosmetic products. Under the direction of the QC Manager, you'll perform appearance, dimensional, and print-quality inspections, verify incoming labels against approved artwork, review supplier Certificates of Analysis, and make first-level accept/reject determinations; technical conformance is confirmed by the QC Manager and final disposition is granted by QA.


What You'll Do

  • Perform incoming inspection of packaging materials and components (containers, closures, cartons, labels, inserts) for appearance, dimensions, and print quality using approved AQL sampling plans
  • Conduct label and artwork comparison inspections, verifying incoming labeling against approved artwork and specifications
  • Review supplier Certificates of Analysis (CoA) for incoming packaging materials
  • Perform first-level accept/reject determination of packaging materials
  • Quarantine nonconforming packaging materials, apply status labeling, and report findings promptly to the QC Manager
  • Initiate deviation/nonconformance documentation for incoming-material issues and support resulting investigations
  • Manage incoming packaging-material retain samples in accordance with procedures
  • Perform Daily Verification of measuring instruments used for inspection (e.g., calipers, gauges)
  • Record all inspection results contemporaneously and accurately in compliance with Good Documentation Practices and data integrity (ALCOA+) requirements
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and cGMP-compliant inspection and receiving area


Education & Experience

  • High school diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a science or technical field preferred
  • 1–3 years of QC inspection or incoming-inspection experience in a cGMP-regulated environment (pharmaceutical, OTC drug, cosmetic, medical device, or food)
  • Experience with AQL sampling (ANSI/ASQ Z1.4) and use of measuring instruments preferred
  • Familiarity with OTC drug and cosmetic packaging/labeling requirements is an advantage


Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Working knowledge of cGMP and Good Documentation Practices (ALCOA+)
  • Ability to read and interpret specifications, approved artwork, and inspection procedures
  • Proficiency with measuring instruments (calipers, gauges) and visual inspection techniques
  • Strong attention to detail and accurate, legible documentation
  • Basic computer skills (ERP/inventory systems, electronic records)
  • Effective communication and teamwork; ability to escalate quality issues appropriately
  • Bilingual English/Korean or English/Spanish is a plus


Regulatory Scope

This position makes first-level accept/reject determinations on incoming packaging materials in support of 21 CFR 211.80, 211.122 (labeling), and 211.132 (tamper-evident packaging). Final technical conformance and disposition authority rest with the QC Manager and QA, respectively.


Benefits

  • Health Insurance — premium 100% covered by employer for the employee
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid holidays
  • Annual floating holiday