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Food Inspector Jobs in Memphis, TN (NOW HIRING)

VSC Fire & Security in Memphis, Tennessee is seeking candidates for the position of Inspector . What we offer: * Excellent pay $22.00 - $32.00 and up based on experience * Overtime eligible * Company ...

The Quality Inspector is responsible for inspecting purchased and manufactured components to ensure they meet company specifications and quality requirements. This position plays a critical role in ...

Quality Inspector Location: Osceola, AR Marathon Staffing is hiring a Quality Inspector to help ensure products meet required quality standards. If you take pride in accuracy, enjoy hands-on work ...

Perform detailed visual and dimensional inspections of incoming materials, in-process components, and finished products according to specifications, blueprints, and quality control plans. * Utilize ...

Grade and inspect incoming materials * Direct customers throughout the facility * Assist customers as needed * Sort and move materials as needed * Comply with all safety guidelines * All other duties ...

Perform detailed visual and dimensional inspections of incoming materials, in-process components, and finished products according to specifications, blueprints, and quality control plans. * Utilize ...

Grade and inspect incoming materials * Direct customers throughout the facility * Assist customers as needed * Sort and move materials as needed * Comply with all safety guidelines * All other duties ...

Grade and inspect incoming materials * Direct customers throughout the facility * Assist customers as needed * Sort and move materials as needed * Comply with all safety guidelines * All other duties ...

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

Memphis, TN · 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

Memphis, TN · 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 ...

Record inspection findings accurately in reports, logs, and the quality database. * Participate in daily team meetings for the designated areas * Report any issues to the assigned lead or supervisor ...

Food Expeditor

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Food Expeditor (Expo) Reports to: General Manager The Food Expeditor (Expo) is a vital member of ... Inspect each plate to ensure it meets restaurant standards for presentation, temperature, and ...

Quality Inspector I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

A Quality Inspector I performs basic inspection duties under supervision. This requires basic blueprint reading skills, performing measurements accurately with basic measuring tools, and learning ...

Visual Inspectors Pay: $20/hour Location: Memphis, TN through the end of the year. Position will relocate to Byhalia, MS thereafter. Schedule: Monday-Thursday | 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM We are seeking ...

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Food Inspector information

See Memphis, TN salary details

$10.7K

$39.6K

$61.2K

How much do food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for food inspector in Memphis, TN is $39,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,400.00 and $42,300.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Food Inspector jobs in Memphis, TN? For Food Inspector jobs in Memphis, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Inspector jobs in Memphis, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Food Inspector jobs in Memphis, TN are:
What cities near Memphis, TN are hiring for Food Inspector jobs? Cities near Memphis, TN with the most Food Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Inspector job openings in Memphis, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,621 per year, or $19 per hour.

Environmentalist - Food & Safety (Health Services)

Shelby County Sheriff's Office

Memphis, TN • On-site

$40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description


Position Summary
Conducts regular sanitation inspections of establishments permitted by local and state authorities and open to the public. Monitors sanitation conditions, documents findings, and assists with compliance efforts in accordance with applicable health and sanitation regulations.
Pay Grade: 47
Salary Commensurate with Experience and Education
Minimum Qualifications
  • Two (2) years of experience in the environmental health field; AND
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical, biological, chemical, environmental health sciences, or related field; OR
  • An equivalent combination of related education and/or experience.
  • PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Conducts routine sanitation and food safety inspections of permitted establishments, including food service facilities, schools, childcare centers, pools, lodging facilities, and personal service establishments, in accordance with established procedures.
  • Enforces local and state environmental health and food safety laws by identifying violations and documenting inspection findings in permitted establishments.
  • Educates operators on identified violations and compliance requirements, providing guidance on corrective actions and applicable food codes.
  • Investigates complaints related to foodborne illness and unsanitary conditions and conducts follow-up inspections as required.
  • Performs re-inspections and ongoing monitoring of permitted establishments at required intervals to verify continued compliance.
  • Initiates enforcement actions, including issuing violation notices and participating in environmental court proceedings when necessary.
  • Participates in required training, standardization, and quality assurance activities, including TDH and FDA training, to maintain professional competency and consistency.
  • Performs other related duties as required or directed.

KSAs
  • Knowledge of environmental health principles, including basic chemistry, biology, and public or community health as applied to sanitation and food safety.
  • Ability to interpret and apply environmental health laws and regulations during inspections of permitted establishments.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills to clearly explain inspection findings, violations, regulatory requirements, and compliance expectations.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, including planning and organizing daily inspection activities efficiently.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office or comparable county systems.

Special Requirements
  • Must possess a valid Tennessee driver's license or secure one by date of employment.
  • Must have access to an operable automobile and meet County requirements of automobile insurance upon date of employment.
  • Must be able to work occasional weekends and/or modified work schedules, including adjusted days or hours, as operational needs require.
  • Must successfully complete FDA-ORA-U Web-based Pre and Post Food Safety Courses within six (6) months of employment.
  • Must maintain all required licenses, certifications, and training credentials throughout the duration of employment.

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to stoop, squat, crawl, and perform other physical duties as needed to investigate environmental health complaints as needed.
  • Must be able to lift or pull up to 35 pounds at a time.
  • Must be able to work in all types of weather.
  • Must successfully pass a physical assessment.

Disclaimer
This position is subject to a background check for any convictions that have a substantial relationship to potential job duties. Only convictions that are substantially related to potential job duties will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Shelby County Resident Disclaimer
All employees hired after September 1, 1986, must be residents of Shelby County and shall continue to reside in the County as a condition of their employment. The residency requirement shall not apply to certain public safety/civil service employees. This means exemption from this policy is in effect for the following departments and positions: (1) Sheriff Deputy Patrol Officers, Deputy Jailers and Dispatchers, employed by the Sheriff Department, (2) Correction Officers employed by the Division of Corrections, (3) Firefighters, Paramedics and Dispatchers employed by the Shelby County Fire Department. The residency exemption for public safety/civil service employees does not include appointed positions with the Sheriff's Office, Division of Corrections or the Fire Department.