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Food Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Responsible for inspection and sampling work performed in the field, completion of all necessary paperwork, correct distribution of samples and timely communications with office staff. Primary Duties ...

Quality Inspector

Sterling, VA

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You are a Quality Inspector conducting tests to determine the quality of materials and finished products through the use of CMM, Laser, Arm Probe, and manual inspection tools. You will contribute to ...

Responsible for inspection and sampling work performed in the field, completion of all necessary paperwork, correct distribution of samples and timely communications with office staff. Primary Duties ...

Responsible for inspection and sampling work performed in the field, completion of all necessary paperwork, correct distribution of samples and timely communications with office staff. Primary Duties ...

... food services; motorpool and logistics operations; and physical and technical security services. As the Bio-Retention Pond Inspector , you will support environmental compliance, stormwater management ...

... food services; motorpool and logistics operations; and physical and technical security services. As the Bio-Retention Pond Inspector , you will support environmental compliance, stormwater management ...

Quality Inspector

Sterling, VA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You are a Quality Inspector conducting tests to determine the quality of materials and finished products through the use of CMM, Laser, Arm Probe, and manual inspection tools. You will contribute to ...

The Quality Inspector is responsible for performing inspection of finished goods, packaging components, labeling materials, and raw materials using standard inspection techniques and methodology.

Inspector I - 3rd Shift

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $23.24/hr

Ability to understand and follow Safety, Food Safety and GMP requirements * Attention to detail * Accuracy in inspection * Time management * Workspace organization * Hand-Eye coordination * Ability ...

Ability to understand and follow Safety, Food Safety and GMP requirements * Attention to detail * Accuracy in inspection * Time management * Workspace organization * Hand-Eye coordination * Ability ...

Inspector I - 3rd Shift

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $23.24/hr

Ability to understand and follow Safety, Food Safety and GMP requirements * Attention to detail * Accuracy in inspection * Time management * Workspace organization * Hand-Eye coordination * Ability ...

Ability to understand and follow Safety, Food Safety and GMP requirements * Attention to detail * Accuracy in inspection * Time management * Workspace organization * Hand-Eye coordination * Ability ...

Assess and Inspect ALL parts * Locate and properly read OEM part supplements, to properly locate replacement parts. * Read and interpret diagnostic graphs; * Data entry, reporting and analysis as ...

About the Quality Inspector/Quality Check position: * We are looking for a Quality Inspector who will be a firm advocate of quality in our business. * Your duties will include verification of all ...

About the Quality Inspector/Quality Check position: * We are looking for a Quality Inspector who will be a firm advocate of quality in our business. * Your duties will include verification of all ...

Showing results 41-60

Food Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$40.4K

$62.5K

How much do food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for food inspector in Virginia is $40,435.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,200.00 and $43,100.00 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 job categories do people searching Food Inspector jobs in Virginia look for?

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Food Inspector jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Food Inspector job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Food Inspector job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,435 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


AmSpec rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Job Summary

Entry level position for trainee inspector who will ultimately be able to undertake basic inspection and sampling work performed in the field, complete necessary paperwork, correctly distribute samples and maintain timely communications with office staff.Responsible for inspection and sampling work performed in the field, completion of all necessary paperwork, correct distribution of samples and timely communications with office staff.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities    

  • Complete all necessary safety and orientation training required to allow access to customer facilities
  • Shadow assigned senior inspector or training person on jobs and learn basic inspection and sampling requirements
  • Read, become familiar with and follow at all times, all American Petroleum Institute (API) and IFIA procedures as well as customer and company policies and requirements
  • As assigned by training person, perform basic inspection and sampling work in the field according to industry and customer requirements, to include: physical measurement of product, obtaining temperatures of product, sampling of product and calculations of volume.
  • Carry out all assigned tasks in accordance with the latest industry standards and practices and in accordance with the specific instructions provided by supervisor. Maintain required communications with office staff and keep them fully updated of any changes to the initial plan.
  • Responsible for the correct preparation and distribution of all field reports to vessels, terminals, and the office as assigned by training person
  • Responsible for the proper identification and timely transportation of the samples obtained in the course of their activities
  • Other similar tasks as assigned by supervisor

Required Skills

Skills/Qualifications

  • High school diploma and/or related experience in the industry.
  • Ability to read, write and communicate in English.
  • Basic math skills including the ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
  • Familiarity with basic computer skills in word processing and spreadsheet programs.
  • Required to have unrestricted use of a licensed and insured vehicle in good, safe operating condition that can be used on the job for both personal and sample transportation in all ambient weather conditions. Must possess a valid current driving license and meet the requirements of AmSpec Safe Driving Policy.
  • Must be ready to accept job assignments at any time, 24 x 7, including scheduled days off. Overtime must be worked as required to meet the needs of the branch office. Must be willing to work shifts if required by location.
  • Must be able to work in refineries, terminals, and on-board marine vessels as necessary.
  • Must respond to communications from the office and be available at all times.
  • Attendance at monthly safety meetings is required.
  • TWIC Card may be required to access terminals, refineries, rail yards, platforms, launch areas, and other third party host sites.

Working Conditions 
The employee may be exposed to fumes, airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals. AmSpec provides product 
information, training and personal protective equipment to protect employees from exposure to potentially harmful levels 
of those materials. The employee will be required to work outdoors in all levels of adverse weather conditions. Work may 
be required to be performed in refineries, tank farms, terminals and on board barges, ships, railcars and tank trucks. The 
noise level in the work environment may be high at times. Local and on occasion long distance travel may be required.  


Physical Requirements 

  • Safety Sensitive position that requires pre-employment, random and annual drug and alcohol testing (including marijuana testing).
  • Comply with the requirements of AmSpec D&A Policy.
  • Pass an annual Pulmonary Fitness Test.
  • Pass a physical examination by a physician designated by AmSpec, both before employment and at any time during employment upon request of AmSpec Services to confirm the Surveyor’s ability to perform the essential job functions of the position.
  • Qualify annually for a Respirator Fit Test.
  • Qualify annually, based on the results of an OSHA- designated blood test, for work in areas containing certain levels of Hydrocarbon Vapors.
  • Be able to safely perform inspection work while wearing required safety equipment, regardless of ambient weather conditions.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods; use hands to handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; talk or hear; and to smell.
  • Ability to walk, sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl and reach with hands and arms frequently.
  • Ability to climb storage tank ladders and stairs, typically up to 100 feet high while carrying 45 lb. of samples and/or inspection- related gear or equipment. Ability to climb vessel gangways, ladders, Jacob’s ladders, and stairs.
  • Ability to work in the presence of odors, typical of petroleum or petrochemicals, without allergic reactions or nausea when such odors are within OSHA-designated permissible exposure limits (PELs).
  • Ability to work in confined spaces (as defined by OSHA), wearing appropriate respiratory and skin protection equipment.

Required Experience

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