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Food Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Quality Inspector

Renton, WA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Harper Engineering Co. is seeking an experienced, detail-oriented inspector who is committed to maintaining high-quality compliance throughout the inspection process to join our Quality team. Who We ...

Quality Inspector Payrate: $25 to $27 per hour Shift: 6:00am - 2:30pm, Monday - Friday Location: Everett, WA 98203 We are seeking a detail-oriented Quality Inspector who demonstrates the ability to ...

Quality Inspector

Renton, WA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Outbound inspection * Acquire supporting documentation for orders * Other duties as assigned Education and Experience: * Associates degree preferred, HS diploma or GED required. * Minimum 1 year ...

Quality Inspector

Renton, WA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Harper Engineering Co. is seeking an experienced, detail-oriented inspector who is committed to maintaining high-quality compliance throughout the inspection process to join our Quality team. Who We ...

Quality Inspector

Renton, WA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Outbound inspection * Acquire supporting documentation for orders * Other duties as assigned Education and Experience: * Associates degree preferred, HS diploma or GED required. * Minimum 1 year ...

Quality Inspector

Renton, WA · On-site

$24 - $38/hr

Harper Engineering Co. is seeking an experienced, detail-oriented inspector who is committed to maintaining high-quality compliance throughout the inspection process to join our Quality team. Who We ...

Pillar To Post Home Inspectors is North America's leading home inspection company, dedicated to providing thorough, reliable, and professional inspection services. Our local team is growing, and we ...

Aerospace Inspector

Renton, WA · On-site

$44 - $46/hr

The Inspector - Fabrication/Assembly is responsible for ensuring that all fabricated and assembled components meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance with engineering ...

Residential Home Inspector - Older Homes / Existing Residential Properties Join Pillar To Post Home Inspectors ® Build your career with Pillar To Post Home Inspectors, a trusted leader in the home ...

Quality Inspector I

Everett, WA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The Quality Inspector I plays a critical role in ensuring that manufacturing processes and products meet established quality standards and meet customer expectations. This position involves ...

Uses various inspections technologies for further inspection of products. prepares documentation on inspection results and activities, upholding Umbra Cuscinetti's Quality Policy. Embraces and ...

Uses various inspections technologies for further inspection of products. prepares documentation on inspection results and activities, upholding Umbra Cuscinetti's Quality Policy. Embraces and ...

If so, this Direct Hire Quality Inspector opportunity could be a great fit for you! You'll join a leading aerospace manufacturer that engineers, manufactures, and provides aftermarket support for ...

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Food Inspector information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$12.5K

$46.4K

$71.7K

How much do food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for food inspector in Seattle, WA is $46,414.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,700.00 and $49,500.00 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 Seattle, WA? For Food Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Food Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Food Inspector jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Food Inspector job openings:

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Tasks and Responsibilities: 

  • Inbound Inspection
  • Outbound inspection
  • Acquire supporting documentation for orders
  • Other duties as assigned

Education and Experience: 

  • Associates degree preferred, HS diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum 1 year experience in Quality inspection required.
  • Basic blueprint reading skills required

 Competencies:  

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Basic computer skills
  • Basic reading skills
  • Basic arithmetic skills
  • Time management skills including meeting deadlines for OTD.
  • Ability to successfully work independently

 Travel: 

  • Local coverage
  • Travel for off site training when required, 5%

The final compensation offered to the candidate may be based on geographical location, work experience and/or skill level. Additions to the compensation package, including but not limited to paid time off, insurance benefits and 401(k) eligibility will be outlined at the time of the job offer. 

Compensation range: $24.00-28.00/hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

As an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran or disability status.

This position requires the use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. Green Card Holder), Political Asylee or Refugee