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Food Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Quality Inspector

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Quality Inspector The Quality Inspector ensures that products meet internal and customer quality standards by performing in-process, incoming, and final inspections on the production floor. This role ...

Harvey, IL - On-site Integrity Trade Services is hiring a Quality Inspector for our manufacturing industry client to start 08/03/2026 at $28.00/hour. Receive comprehensive benefits through ITS upon ...

Entry-Level Quality Inspector Company: Road & Rail Services Pay: $20.00 per hour Job Type: Full-Time Schedule: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Work Environment: On-site and primarily outdoors ...

Entry-Level Quality Inspector Company: Road & Rail Services Pay: $20.00 per hour Job Type: Full-Time Schedule: Wednesday-Sunday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Work Environment: On-site and primarily outdoors ...

Quality Inspector

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$52 - $68/hr

Inspect incoming raw materials, in-process components, and final products for dimensional accuracy, finish quality, weld integrity, and adherence to specifications.Perform First Article Inspections ...

Quality Inspector This role performs detailed inspections of precision components using advanced metrology tools and techniques to ensure products meet all specifications and quality standards. You ...

Quality Inspector

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Position Quality Inspector Location - Schaumburg IL then move to Huntley.Position Overview: We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Inspector to join our team. The ideal candidate will be ...

The Inspector performs the inspection of mechanical components for industrial gear units, specifically components from dis-assembled units in preparation for rebuild/service for Wind Turbine and ...

Quality Inspector

Joliet, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Quality Inspector Location: Joliet, IL Pay: $25-$30/hour Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM-2:30 PM Hire Type: Temp-to-Hire Overtime: Occasional Position Overview Sterling Engineering is seeking a ...

Quality Inspector

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$26 - $39/hr

This position performs inspections, measurements, calibration, quality documentation, and supports continuous improvement activities. Key Responsibilities * Perform first-piece, in-process, incoming ...

Quality Inspector

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

We are seeking a meticulous and detail-oriented Quality Inspector to join our manufacturing team. If you are passionate about ensuring the highest standards of product quality and enjoy working in a ...

Perform first piece, in-process and final inspections as requested * Coordinate Quality System paperwork * Utilize various quality instruments to perform necessary inspections * Process Monitoring ...

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Quality Inspector

Joliet, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Quality Inspector Location: Joliet, IL Pay: $25-$30/hour Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM-2:30 PM Hire Type: Temp-to-Hire Overtime: Occasional Position Overview Sterling Engineering is seeking a ...

Showing results 41-60

Food Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$42K

$64.9K

How much do food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Food Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,014 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC in Melrose Park, Illinois seeks a Production Inspector to visually inspect filled products on the filling line, in the Capping Department and off-line inspection area, following SOPs and cGMP. Responsibilities include defect inspection, accurate documentation, operation of inspection equipment, and startup procedures such as filter integrity tests and line clearances. English proficiency required.