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Food Inspector Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

INSPECTOR I

Huntsville, AR · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Open Until Filled Anticipated Starting Salary: $43,088 ((section)) As the largest industry in ... food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is ...

Salary is just one component of our comprehensive compensation package. Full-time employees also ... We also take pride in offering exceptional food perks, with snacks, drip coffee & onsite barista ...

Food Runner Salary Grade TBD - Salary Accountable to Management Here's the Scoop . . . We love ... You visually inspect all plates prior to delivery to include verifying portion, presentation and ...

Food Runner Salary Grade TBD - Salary Accountable to Management Here's the Scoop . . . We love ... You visually inspect all plates prior to delivery to include verifying portion, presentation and ...

Inspector

Breckenridge, CO · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Flexible availability, including weekends and holidays Compensation & Benefits Annual Salary Hourly ... Workplace perks such as recreation activities, food and coffee, and flexible work schedules ...

Food Service Worker

Rochester, NY · On-site

$38K - $44K/yr

Food Service Worker Deadline: Until Filled Salary: $38,668 - $44,273 annually Agency/Dept.: Monroe ... Work is performed under the direct supervision of Food Service supervisory personnel, who inspect ...

Walking and standing for prolonged periods of time COMPENSATION & BENEFITSAnnual Salary Hourly, $15 ... Workplace perks such as recreation activities, food and coffee, and flexible work schedules ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Inspector Salary information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do food inspector salary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for food inspector salary in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is needed to be a food inspector?

To become a food inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field. Relevant certifications, such as food safety or health inspector licenses, and knowledge of sanitation standards and inspection procedures are also important. Additionally, strong attention to detail and good communication skills are essential for performing inspections and reporting findings.

What is the average salary of a food inspector?

The average salary of a food inspector in the United States typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions usually start at the lower end of this range, while experienced inspectors or those in supervisory roles may earn more. Government agencies, such as the USDA or FDA, tend to offer competitive salaries and benefits. Salaries may also be influenced by the type of employer, such as federal, state, or local government versus private sector companies.

How hard is it to be a food inspector?

Becoming a food inspector requires completing relevant education, such as a degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field, and passing certification exams. The job involves inspecting food production facilities, enforcing safety standards, and often working in various environments, which can be physically demanding and require attention to detail. Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and good communication skills are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Food Inspector Salary vs Food Safety Auditor Salary?

AspectFood Inspector SalaryFood Safety Auditor Salary
Required CredentialsDegree in Food Technology, Microbiology, or related field; certification may be preferredSimilar credentials; often requires additional certifications in food safety standards
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, food processing units, inspection sitesConsulting firms, food companies, regulatory agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily government and public health sectorsPrivate sector, food manufacturing, and certification bodies

Both roles involve ensuring food safety and require similar educational backgrounds. Food Inspectors focus on compliance through inspections, while Food Safety Auditors assess overall food safety management systems. Salary differences depend on experience, location, and employer type, but both roles are vital in maintaining food safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by food inspectors in their day-to-day work?

Food inspectors often face challenges such as staying current with frequently updated regulations, managing a high volume of inspections under tight deadlines, and dealing with uncooperative facility staff. They must also be vigilant in identifying potential health hazards and thorough in documenting their findings. Balancing public safety with maintaining effective working relationships with businesses is an essential part of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Inspector, you need a background in food science, biology, or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications or a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory testing equipment, and food safety regulations such as HACCP is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and analytical thinking are key soft skills for effectively identifying and addressing food safety issues. These skills ensure compliance with safety standards, protect public health, and maintain the integrity of the food supply chain.
More about Food Inspector Salary jobs

What cities are hiring for Food Inspector Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Food Inspector Salary job openings:

What states have the most Food Inspector Salary jobs?

States with the most job openings for Food Inspector Salary jobs include:

Infographic showing various Food Inspector Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

$21 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Central States Industrial rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:

The Quality Inspector 1 performs a wide variety of inspection duties associated with the manufacture/fabrication of components and equipment. Inspections must be performed incompliance with customer, CSI and industry standards, and be familiar with ASME BPE, ASMEB31.3 and 3A. Work activities cover incoming, in-process, final and assemblies. Completing and maintaining detailed logs and reports is required.

About CSI:

CSI provides state-of-the-art stainless-steel process equipment and service for the food, dairy, beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries. We are a growing company with a passion for providing superior customer service. Our work environment is rooted in respect, teamwork, continual learning, and growth... with a large dose of community and fun!

We believe our employees are our greatest resource and are committed to investing in our team. Which is why we offer employees the possibility of free monthly healthcare premiums, paid time off, retirement planning, on-going personal development and more! If it wasnt already obvious, we also value fun and community! Which is why we strive to create an enjoyable and positive work environment hosting company BBQs, bringing in local food trucks, casual Fridays, wellness programs, and even encouraging our team to invest and volunteer in our local community.

Salary: $21 - $24 per hour

Primary Functions (not all-inclusive):

  • Learn and perform inspection of materials and components purchased for fabrication in compliance with customer supplied specifications, CSI specifications and/or applicable Industry Standard requirements for:
    • Dimensional tolerances
    • Specified internal and external surface finishes
    • Overall visual appearance
  • Learn and perform documentation processes during manufacturing
    • Maintain Material Examination Log forms and Inspection Log(s)
    • Maintain Weld Log(s) and Weld Map(s)
    • Final review of fabrication documentation for accuracy, ensuring that all is completed correctly and representative of the product produced
  • Learn and perform in-process and final weld inspection in compliance with customer and CSI specifications and/or industry standards. Methods of inspection include:
    • Visual examination (naked eye)
    • Remote Visual (Fiber or Video Borescope) examination
    • Gauges for Undercut, Fillet size and Reinforcement
  • Learn and perform Documentation of weld inspection when specified
    • Video recording per CSI standard procedure
    • Identify and document appropriate weld acceptance/rejection
    • Maintain appropriate paperwork including daily weld and inspection log
  • Learn and maintain material examination logs in accordance with CSI standard practice and/or customer specified requirements
    • Receiving inspection of documented components. Material examination form will be completed for each of the documented components
    • Verify components dimensionally using applicable standards/drawings
    • Identify components with ID number when accepted for use
    • Inspect for acceptance to known visual acceptance criteria
  • Learn to complete non-conformance reports for material not meeting the required specification
    • Complete non-conformance paperwork as specified in CSI standard procedures
    • Quarantine nonconforming material until remediation has been confirmed
  • Learn and perform Positive Material Identification using XRF equipment
    • Working knowledge of PMI test equipment
    • Ability to use and calibrate PMI test equipment
  • Learn and perform Internal FAT functions on all outgoing products, tasks include:
    • Slope verification of piping
    • Piping and Instrument Verification
    • Verify overall dimensions and red line as built drawings
    • Verify etching and equipment tags per fabrication drawings
  • Learn and perform surface finish inspection of all electropolished and mechanically polished components produced by CSI both in process and final inspection
    • Use and calibration of profilometer required
    • Visual examination for surface defects
  • Learn operation and maintenance of all critical measuring devices used for material inspection calibrated and in good working order. Notify Quality Manager if any inspection equipment is thought to be defective or not performing properly
  • Learn the proper use of inspection measurement tools such as Scales, Calipers, Micrometer,
    • Height Gage, Protractor and digital levels
  • Learn to read blueprints, drawings and Piping and Instrument Diagrams (P&ID)
    • Follow Level II Inspector training as required.
    • Comply with all safety rules, regulations and procedures trained and/or implemented by CSI staff

Required Skills:

  • Blueprint reading
  • Reading of tape, scale and calipers
  • Welding documentation and knowledge such as weld maps and weld logs
  • Documentation reviews, understanding of data provided with MTR's, COC's and ASME documentation packages

Education/Training:

  • High School diploma or equivalent, required
  • Welding and/or related trade school, preferred

Required Experience:

  • Must successfully pass CSI training/certification program for ASNT-TC-1A
  • Experience in skid manufacturing, process piping and general knowledge of sanitary piping applications.

More than 40 hours per week may occasionally be required to achieve the productivity necessary for this position.

The successful candidate, with or without reasonable accommodation, may be required to perform constant bending, kneeling, and stooping. The employee must frequently lift and/or move items up to 75 pounds with assistance. Visual acuity is required to perform work using close, distance, and peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. The employee may be exposed to environmental factors typical of a welding and installation environment and will work with various power tools. Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment, such as gloves, safety glasses and steel toe shoes.

CSI has a long standing policy of Equal Opportunity in employment. Our practice is to fill positions by selecting applicants who can perform the work in a competent and professional manner. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or individuals with disability. U.S. federal law requires completion of employment eligibility verification upon hire. CSI participates in E-Verify. Must have the right to work in the United States.


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