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Food Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

MARS Solutions Group

Produce Inspector

Aurora, IL · On-site

Inspect and bring issues to the attention of management relative to food safety. Checking inbound Produce Loads and Produce in the pick slots utilizing the tablet and an app called "Fresh Check"

Cotecna Inspections

Inspector Industrial

Chicago, IL · Remote

As a Freelance Inspector, you will be responsible for conducting thorough inspections of various products and services to ensure they meet our quality standards. You will work closely with our team ...

Carvana

Vehicle Inspector

Hoffman Estates, IL

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Inspect vehicles for signs of wear, tear, neglect, damage, previous repair, mechanical or ... food and petroleum dispensing operations. * * Note: Refer to the Handbook and Policy Manuals for ...

Carvana

Vehicle Inspector

Hoffman Estates, IL

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Inspect vehicles for signs of wear, tear, neglect, damage, previous repair, mechanical or ... food and petroleum dispensing operations. * * Note: Refer to the Handbook and Policy Manuals for ...

Carvana

Vehicle Inspector

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Inspect vehicles for signs of wear, tear, neglect, damage, previous repair, mechanical or ... food and petroleum dispensing operations. * * Note: Refer to the Handbook and Policy Manuals for ...

Gotion, Inc.

Quality Inspector - Third Shift

Manteno, IL · On-site

Proven experience in manufacturing quality control or inspection roles within regulated industries such as medical devices or food production. * Strong knowledge of quality systems including ISO 9001 ...

Sealed Air Corporation

Packer Inspector

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$23.95/hr

Inspector/Packer personnel report to the Shift Leader. Reasonable Accommodations Statement To ... Food Regulatory and Customer Specifications * Responsible for scrap, efficiency, and product ...

Sealed Air Corporation

Packer Inspector

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$23.95/hr

Inspector/Packer personnel report to the Shift Leader. Reasonable Accommodations Statement To ... Food Regulatory and Customer Specifications * Responsible for scrap, efficiency, and product ...

Sealed Air Corporation

Packer Inspector

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$23.95/hr

Inspector/Packer personnel report to the Shift Leader. Reasonable Accommodations Statement To ... Food Regulatory and Customer Specifications * Responsible for scrap, efficiency, and product ...

CookUnity

Food Safety Supervisor

Chicago, IL

Actively participate in regulatory inspection readiness, processes and corrective actions * Monitor critical limits with daily checks of refrigeration, sanitation chemicals, dish machine operation ...

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All JobsFood Inspector JobsFood Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL

Food Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$42K

$64.9K

How much do food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for food inspector in Chicago, IL is $42,014.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $44,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of inspector gets paid the most?

Among food inspectors, those with advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or supervisory roles tend to earn higher salaries. Senior food inspectors or quality assurance managers often have the highest pay, especially in large organizations or government agencies. Experience and additional training can also lead to increased earnings in this field.

What is the highest salary of a food inspector?

The highest salary for a food inspector can vary depending on experience, location, and government agency, but senior or specialized food inspectors in certain regions can earn over $70,000 annually. Factors such as certifications, additional responsibilities, and working in federal agencies may lead to higher compensation.

What are Food Inspectors?

Food Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that food products meet safety and quality standards set by government agencies. They examine food processing facilities, storage areas, and products to detect contamination, improper handling, and violations of health regulations. Their work helps prevent foodborne illnesses and ensures that consumers receive safe, high-quality food. Food Inspectors may also collect samples for laboratory analysis and educate businesses about food safety practices.

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 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.

How do I become a food inspector?

To become a food inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring a bachelor's degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field. They must complete relevant training or certification programs, gain experience in food safety or inspection, and often pass a written exam or practical assessment. Food inspectors usually work for government agencies and may need to meet physical requirements and obtain specific certifications depending on the jurisdiction.

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.

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.

How long does it take to be a food safety inspector?

Becoming a food safety inspector typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification programs that can last from several weeks to several months. Many inspectors also gain experience through on-the-job training or prior work in food service or inspection roles before obtaining certification from relevant agencies.
More about Food Inspector jobs
What are popular job titles related to Food Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Food Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Food Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Food Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Food Inspector job openings:
Food Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,014 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Food Production - Quality Inspector

Food Production - Quality Inspector

Verstela

Elk Grove Village, IL

$16.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Are you an experienced Quality Inspector professional looking for a stable, full-time opportunity in food manufacturing? If you enjoy maintaining high food safety and quality standards while working in a clean, team-oriented environment, this could be the perfect role for you.
 
Join a growing food manufacturer that produces nutritious snack products. The company is committed to quality, food safety, and employee development while providing a clean, fast-paced workplace where teamwork is valued.

What's In It for Me?
  • Temp-to-Hire opportunity with long-term career potential
  • Competitive pay
  • Free lunch provided
  • Clean and organized facility
  • Room for growth and advancement
  • Performance-based pay increases
Job Type: Full-Time
Quality Inspector Job Duties
  • Monitor food safety and quality throughout the manufacturing process.
  • Perform product inspections, sanitation verification, and quality checks.
  • Ensure compliance with SQF standards, food safety procedures, and company policies.
  • Complete quality documentation and maintain accurate production records.
  • Support employees in following food safety and quality standards.
Schedule: Monday through Friday
  • 1st Shift  6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
  • 2nd Shift  3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
  • OT on Saturdays
Pay: $16.50 - $18.50 per hour
Quality Inspector Requirements
  • 1+ year of Quality Assurance experience in a food manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Knowledge of food safety practices or SQF standards.
  • Basic Microsoft Office skills.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Benefits offered by Verstela to temporary employees:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Short Term Disability
  • Term Life and AD and D
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Prescription Plan
  • 401(K) Retirement Savings Plan
Location: Elk Grove Village, Illinois
 
Interested in this a Quality opportunity?  Apply today or call 630-787-2900

Apply