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Food Inspector Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

INSPECTOR I

Walnut Ridge, AR · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

... food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is ... Inspector I Class Code: IIN01P Pay Grade: SGS04 Salary Range: $43,088 - $63,770 Job Summary The ...

INSPECTOR I

Huntsville, AR · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

... food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is ... Inspector I Class Code: IIN01P Pay Grade: SGS04 Salary Range: $43,088 - $63,770 Job Summary The ...

As an Inspector you will be the first point of contact with our customers as they bring scrap materials into the yard. Your primary responsibilities will be inspecting and documenting customer loads ...

As an Inspector you will be the first point of contact with our customers as they bring scrap materials into the yard. Your primary responsibilities will be inspecting and documenting customer loads ...

The Quality Inspector is responsible for the direct inspection, measurement, and testing of products at various stages of production. This role ensures that all raw materials, in-process components ...

Inspect machined and processed parts (anodize, paint, chem film, etc.) * Verify parts meet blueprint specs using: * Micrometers & calipers * CMM * Optical comparator & surface plate * Review and ...

Home Inspector

Blytheville, AR · On-site

$60 - $75/hr

Asteroom is seeking licensed Home Inspectors to join our growing team. If you're a seasoned professional with experience inspecting residential properties, we want to hear from you. As we continue ...

Home Inspector

Blytheville, AR · On-site

$60 - $75/hr

Asteroom is seeking licensed Home Inspectors to join our growing team. If you're a seasoned professional with experience inspecting residential properties, we want to hear from you. As we continue ...

Home Inspector

Blytheville, AR · On-site

$60 - $75/hr

Asteroom is seeking licensed Home Inspectors to join our growing team. If you're a seasoned professional with experience inspecting residential properties, we want to hear from you. As we continue ...

INSPECTOR I

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Inspectors and Investigators - Inspectors Classification: Inspector I Class Code: IIN01P Pay Grade: SGS04 Salary Range: $43,088 - $63,770 Job Summary The Inspector I is a junior professional ...

INSPECTOR III

Fayetteville, AR · On-site

$52K - $77K/yr

This position will serve as a State Plumbing Inspector. Must be licensed as an Arkansas Master Plumber. Constant in-state travel is required. A valid driver's license is required. Must have ...

INSPECTOR III

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

$52K - $77K/yr

This position will serve as a State Plumbing Inspector. Must be licensed as an Arkansas Master Plumber. Constant in-state travel is required. A valid driver's license is required. Must have ...

INSPECTOR III

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$52K - $77K/yr

Inspectors and Investigators - Inspectors Classification: Inspector III Class Code: IIN03P Pay Grade: SGS06 Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163 Job Summary The Inspector III is a dedicated professional ...

INSPECTOR II

Rison, AR · On-site

$47K - $70K/yr

Inspectors and Investigators - Inspectors Classification: Inspector II Class Code: IIN02P Pay Grade: SGS05 Salary Range: $47,397 - $70,148 Job Summary The Inspector II is a dedicated professional ...

INSPECTOR III

Pine Bluff, AR · On-site

$52K - $77K/yr

Inspectors and Investigators - Inspectors Classification: Inspector III Class Code: IIN03P Pay Grade: SGS06 Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163 Job Summary The Inspector III is a dedicated professional ...

$14.50 - $20/hr

Inspect store facilities and equipment for safety, cleanliness, and proper working order. Clean, sanitize, and maintain food service equipment to protect our customers from illness Financial Controls:

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Food Inspector information

See Arkansas salary details

$9.1K

$33.7K

$52.1K

How much do food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for food inspector in Arkansas is $33,725.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $36,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food inspector?

A food inspector makes sure that all food produced at a farm, processing plant, slaughterhouse, or other food production facility meets rigorous health and safety requirements before shipment. As a food inspector, your duties include performing physical inspections of the food, investigating health, sanitation, and safety practices at a facility, and writing reports based off of your investigations and interviews. You must be able to notice any potential for bacterial or other contamination and be willing to stop production to uphold public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food inspector?

To thrive as a Food Inspector, you need a solid understanding of food safety regulations, microbiology, and public health, usually supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory testing equipment, and reporting systems is essential for effective monitoring and documentation. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help Food Inspectors identify risks and collaborate with various stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure public safety, regulatory compliance, and the integrity of the food supply chain.

What are some common challenges food inspectors face during inspections, and how can they effectively address them?

Food Inspectors often encounter challenges such as non-compliance with safety regulations, language barriers with facility staff, and time constraints when inspecting multiple sites. To address these issues, inspectors rely on clear communication, detailed checklists, and ongoing training to stay current with evolving food safety standards. Building rapport with facility personnel and maintaining a thorough, objective approach helps ensure that all issues are identified and resolved efficiently, ultimately protecting public health.

What is the difference between Food Inspector vs Food Safety Officer?

AspectFood InspectorFood Safety Officer
Required CredentialsDegree in Food Technology, Microbiology, or related field; certification may be requiredSimilar qualifications as Food Inspector; often requires additional training in food safety standards
Work EnvironmentInspecting food production units, markets, and restaurantsOverseeing food safety compliance, conducting audits, and public awareness
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, food manufacturing, and inspection departmentsGovernment health departments, regulatory agencies, and food industry

Both Food Inspectors and Food Safety Officers work to ensure food quality and safety, often with overlapping roles. Food Inspectors primarily focus on inspecting food establishments and products, while Food Safety Officers handle broader compliance and public health initiatives. The roles are complementary, with similar qualifications and work environments, but differ slightly in scope and responsibilities.

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 a certification exam. 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. Experience and knowledge of food safety regulations are essential for success in this role.

How much do food inspectors make in the US?

Food inspectors in the United States earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, with experienced inspectors and those working in certain states earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, level of experience, and certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager certification.

What are popular job titles related to Food Inspector jobs in Arkansas?

For Food Inspector jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Inspector jobs in Arkansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Inspector jobs in Arkansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Food Inspector jobs in AR?

For Food Inspector jobs in AR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Food Inspector job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,725 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

INSPECTOR I

State of Arkansas

Walnut Ridge, AR • On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


State Of Arkansas rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 50 rated states


Job description

Position Number: 22094675
County: Lawrence; Craighead; Randolph
Posting End Date: Open Until Filled

Anticipated Starting Salary: $43,088
((section))
As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.
Hiring Manager:
Andrea Collom
andrea.collom@arkansas.gov
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience and knowledge of handling animals and animal husbandry practices
  • Experience with livestock markets and sales
  • Experience with exhibiting animals
  • Experience working with veterinarians
  • Understands the livestock and poultry industry on a state and national level
  • Ability to use Microsoft office, web-based programs, and a smart phone
  • Ability to prepare and compile data and reports
  • Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally
  • Physically able to fit test and wear a respirator
  • Physically able to stand, walk, stoop, and/or bend for prolonged periods of time
  • Physically able to lift 50 pounds
  • FEMA Incident Command Training

Position Information
Job Series: Inspectors and Investigators - Inspectors
Classification: Inspector I
Class Code: IIN01P
Pay Grade: SGS04
Salary Range: $43,088 - $63,770
Job Summary
The Inspector I is a junior professional responsible for conducting routine inspections and evaluations to ensure that facilities, projects, or operational procedures adhere to established internal standards and regulatory guidelines. Under close supervision, this role serves as a foundational position in quality assurance and safety management. The Inspector I gathers and documents critical information, identifies potential risks or nonconformities, and supports more experienced inspectors and management teams in upholding compliance, safety, and quality within the organization.
Primary Responsibilities
Perform scheduled and unscheduled inspections of facilities, equipment, or projects to ensure adherence to established codes, standards, and safety regulations.Utilize pre-determined standardized checklists and inspection protocols to document findings accurately.Prepare clear and concise inspection reports outlining observations, discrepancies, and recommended corrective actions.Maintain accurate records of inspection activities and follow up on pending issues.Work under the supervision of senior inspectors or quality assurance managers, assisting in coordinating and prioritizing inspection tasks.Communicate effectively with team members and departments to relay inspection results and support corrective initiatives.Follow established guidelines and protocols to ensure a safe and compliant work environment.Demonstrate a commitment to learning and applying industry-specific standards and best practices.Participate in on-the-job training sessions to develop a deeper understanding of inspection techniques and regulatory requirements.Stay informed about emerging practices, tools, or technologies that can enhance inspection accuracy and efficiency.
Knowledge and Skills
Acute attention to detail and strong observational skills.Basic computer skills, including familiarity with data entry and reporting software.Effective verbal and written communication skills for clear documentation and collaboration.A proactive attitude and willingness to learn from experienced professionals.
Minimum Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED.This role is designed as a learning opportunity, with structured training provided to develop technical proficiency and practical knowledge over time.
Licensure/Certifications
Must possess a valid Arkansas driver's license. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

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State of Arkansas logo

About State of Arkansas

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The "State of Arkansas" is not a company but the governmental body of the U.S. state of Arkansas. Its primary operations are situated in the state's capital, Little Rock. As a governmental entity, its services span various domains including education, health, businesses, transportation, and environment, among others. Its mission revolves around serving the needs of the Arkansas citizens, ensuring their safety, health and welfare, overseeing the state's resources, and contributing to the overall prosperity and quality of life in the state. The state government has achieved various milestones improving the local infrastructure, health facilities, and implementing progressive policies for the betterment of the communities.

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Little Rock, AR, US