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Food Health Inspector Jobs in Santa Fe, NM (NOW HIRING)

... of food to be served complying with all applicable sanitation, health, and personal hygiene ... Oversee the clean-up of the work area and provide an inspection * Perform other duties as assigned ...

FUEL CENTER/CLERK

Los Alamos, NM

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Smith's Food and Drug merged with The Kroger Company in 1998. Today ... A wide range of healthcare coverage, including affordable, comprehensive medical, dental, vision ...

Restaurant General Manager

Espanola, NM

$54K - $75K/yr

... health inspections, steritech visits and brand standards at all times. * Plans and analyzes unit ... Maintains proper inventory levels for both food and nonfood items in accordance with company ...

e-COMMERCE/CLERK

Los Alamos, NM · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Smith's Food and Drug merged with The Kroger Company in 1998. Today ... A wide range of healthcare coverage, including affordable, comprehensive medical, dental, vision ...

Executive Chef

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

Ensure compliance with all health, sanitation, HACCP, and food safety regulations. Team Leadership ... Conduct regular inspections of kitchens and storage areas. * Maintain the highest standards of ...

Produce Assistant Manager

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Order, receive, inspect, and store product following food safety and rotation guidelines * Manage ... Health and financial well-being benefits for eligible associates (Medical, Dental, 401k and more!

Produce Assistant Manager

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Order, receive, inspect, and store product following food safety and rotation guidelines * Manage ... Health and financial well-being benefits for eligible associates (Medical, Dental, 401k and more!

Produce Assistant Manager

Santa Fe, NM

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Order, receive, inspect, and store product following food safety and rotation guidelines * Manage ... Health and financial well-being benefits for eligible associates (Medical, Dental, 401k and more!

Station Cook - Hilton Santa Fe

Santa Fe, NM

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The Station Cook III plans, preps, sets up and provides quality service in all areas of cold food ... Inspect the cleanliness and working conditions of all tools, equipment and supplies. * Maintain ...

Station Cook - Hilton Santa Fe

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The Station Cook III plans, preps, sets up and provides quality service in all areas of cold food ... Inspect the cleanliness and working conditions of all tools, equipment and supplies. * Maintain ...

PM Dishwasher

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$17/hr

... Food Handlers Certificate Benefits: 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee discount Health ... • Inspect the cleanliness and condition of all washed wares and rewash wares not meeting ...

PM Dishwasher

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$17/hr

... Food Handlers Certificate Benefits: 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee discount Health ... • Inspect the cleanliness and condition of all washed wares and rewash wares not meeting ...

Bakery Clerk

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$13.75 - $16/hr

Receive, inspect, and log products for accuracy of shipment, temperature, and quality * If you're ... health, and Weights and Measures regulations, while achieving and maintaining a Food Handlers ...

Bakery Clerk

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$13.75 - $16/hr

Receive, inspect, and log products for accuracy of shipment, temperature, and quality * If you're ... health, and Weights and Measures regulations, while achieving and maintaining a Food Handlers ...

Bakery Clerk

Santa Fe, NM

$13.75 - $16/hr

Receive, inspect, and log products for accuracy of shipment, temperature, and quality * If you're ... health, and Weights and Measures regulations, while achieving and maintaining a Food Handlers ...

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Food Health Inspector information

See Santa Fe, NM salary details

$24.9K

$55.7K

$100.4K

How much do food health inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for food health inspector in Santa Fe, NM is $55,726.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,100.00 and $64,400.00 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 cities near Santa Fe, NM are hiring for Food Health Inspector jobs?

Cities near Santa Fe, NM with the most Food Health Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Health Inspector job openings in Santa Fe, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,726 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Class: Non-Exempt Reports To: MARKETING MANAGER
Job Summary: Responsible for preparing and directing the preparation of food to be served complying with all applicable sanitation, health, and personal hygiene standards, and following established food production programs and procedures. Responsible for appropriately using facility supplies and equipment, and minimizing loss, waste, and fraud.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities: NOTE. unilaterally may change the requirements of this job description at any time. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Prepare and direct preparation of food served using established production procedures and systems
  • Determine the amount and type of food and supplies required using production systems
  • Ensure availability of supplies and food or approved substitutions in adequate time for preparation
  • Comply with established sanitation standards, personal hygiene, and health standards
  • Observe proper food preparation and handling techniques
  • Responsible for training Grill Assistant Manager, and Grill employees
  • Store food properly and safely, marking the date and item
  • Request necessary equipment repair and maintenance
  • Oversee the clean-up of the work area and provide an inspection
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications (includes education, skills, and experience): The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
  • Minimum high school graduate, or equivalent preferred
  • Must be a minimum of 17 years of age
  • Prior experience in related food service positions required
  • Prior experience in supervising food preparation services, preferred
  • Responsible for ensuring that safety processes are followed, including universal precautions and safe work practice
  • Assist in correcting unsafe working conditions and requesting equipment repair and maintenance needs
  • Promotes positive public relations with customers
  • Responsible for ensuring that uniform dress code including personal hygiene are followed

Needed Attributes:
  • Able to work with a diverse group of people
  • Customer service oriented
  • Positive and friendly attitude

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
  • Ability to regularly stand for long periods to provide customer service
  • Ability to reach, lift, bend, kneel, stoop, push, and pull items weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Work area contains increased heat levels for extended periods
  • Must use cleaning chemicals and sprays to clean work area