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Food Inspector Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bilingual Quality Inspector

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Join Prime Meats and help ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality. Since 1992 ... Why Prime Meats?: Competitive Salary | Paid Training | Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits | PTO ...

New

Inspector V

San Angelo, TX ยท On-site

$48 - $76/hr

Salary Group: TEXAS-B-20 * Shift: Day * Additional Shift: None * Telework: * Travel: * Regular ... S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) in, or equivalent ...

Inspector V

Arlington, TX ยท On-site

$62 - $76/hr

Monthly Salary Group: TEXAS-B-20 Shift: Day Additional Shift: Days (First) Telework: Not Eligible ... USDA) Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) grant (permit/license) but with MSA staffing. Safe ...

Food Safety Auditor - United States - Remote This is a remote position with 85% travel; applicants ... and inspections. Salary & Benefits Information Individual compensation packages are based on a ...

Agricultural Inspector I

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$72K - $87K/yr

Salary : $72,193.48 - $87,763.40 Annually Location : Santa Rosa, CA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number ... The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) oversees the licensing requirements for ...

Inspector

Victoria, TX ยท On-site

... and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. LYB places high priority on diversity ... This is a direct hire position with competitive base salary and benefits. A Day in the Life

... and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. LYB places high priority on diversity ... This is a direct hire position with competitive base salary and benefits. A Day in the Life

INSPECTOR I

Walnut Ridge, AR ยท 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 ...

INSPECTOR I

Huntsville, AR ยท 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 ...

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 Sep 6, 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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 establishments, understanding safety regulations, and often working in environments that require attention to detail and adherence to strict standards, which can be challenging but manageable with proper training and experience.

What are the qualifications to be a food inspector?

Food inspectors 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 sanitation training, and knowledge of health regulations are often required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work in various environments are also important.
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 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Bilingual Quality Inspector

Prime Meats LLC

Richmond, VA โ€ข On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Join Prime Meats and help ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality.

 Since 1992, Prime Meats has been a trusted distributor of premium proteins across the Southeast. We're looking for a Quality Assurance Technician to support food safety, quality control, and regulatory compliance.
 
What You'll Do: 
  • Monitor food safety, quality, sanitation, and HACCP/SQF compliance. 
  • Conduct inspections, audits, and documentation reviews. 
  • Train employees on GMPs, food safety, PPE, and quality procedures. 
  • Investigate non-conformances and support corrective actions. 
  • Partner with Operations teams to drive continuous improvement. 
 
What We're Looking For:
  • 1-2 years of experience in food manufacturing or distribution. 
  • Degree in Food Science or related field preferred. 
  • HACCP certification and quality control experience preferred. 
  • Knowledge of USDA, SQF, SOPs, and food safety regulations preferred. 
  • Ability to read and write English. 
 
Why Prime Meats?:
Competitive Salary | Paid Training | Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits | PTO | Referral Bonus up to $700 | Career Growth | Employee Discounts
 
Schedule: First Shift | 8 AM - 5 PM Mon-Fri | E-Verify Employer.