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Food Inspector Jobs in Union, NJ (NOW HIRING)

... such as Food Assistance and Emergency Rental Assistance. As the largest local social services ... Housing Services is seeking one (1) Inspector (Housing) to function as a Housing Inspector, who ...

HOUSING INSPECTOR

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... such as Food Assistance and Emergency Rental Assistance. As the largest local social services ... Housing Services is seeking one (1) Inspector (Housing) to function as a Housing Inspector, who ...

... such as Food Assistance and Emergency Rental Assistance. As the largest local social services ... Housing Services is seeking one (1) Inspector (Housing) to function as a Housing Inspector, who ...

Quality Inspector

Dayton, NJ · On-site

$21.05/hr

Conduct heavy lifting (Drop tests) in a safe manner Food Safety : Following cleaning schedule as ... Visual inspection of products from raw materials, molding, assembly and shipping is a job ...

SUMMARY Perform inspection and quality control activities to support the on-time delivery and quality objectives of the manufacturing groups, adhering to the Quality Management System, all applicable ...

The Bureau of Food Safety and Community Sanitation (BFSCS) protect the public, including New York ... DOHMH is mandated to inspect 26,000 restaurants annually, school cafeterias, and mobile food ...

Inspector Performs the inspection of the most complex parts and assemblies. Requires the mechanical ability and experience to perform inspections of simple electrical, complex mechanical, pneumatic ...

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Food Inspector information

See Union, NJ salary details

$11.2K

$41.6K

$64.2K

How much do food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for food inspector in Union, NJ is $41,561.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $44,300.00 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 Union, NJ? For Food Inspector jobs in Union, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Union, NJ are hiring for Food Inspector jobs? Cities near Union, NJ with the most Food Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Inspector job openings in Union, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,561 per year, or $20 per hour.
Public Health Inspector, Bureau of Food Safety and Community Sanitation

Public Health Inspector, Bureau of Food Safety and Community Sanitation

City of New York

Manhattan, NY • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

527th of 700 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's Division of Environmental Health works to prevent and control illness and injury related to environmental and occupational health risks through outreach, education, surveillance, and enforcement. With staff of 1,000, the Division covers a broad range of subject matter, including oversight of environmental investigations, lead poisoning, injury prevention, occupational health, food safety, childcare, radiation control, recreational and drinking water quality, air quality, climate health, vector control, veterinary public health and pest control. The Bureau of Food Safety and Community Sanitation (BFSCS) protect the public, including New York's most vulnerable citizens, from a broad range of hazards that may pose a threat to health or safety. DOHMH is mandated to inspect 26,000 restaurants annually, school cafeterias, and mobile food vending unit, adult day care centers, senior centers, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and other facilities.
Duties will include but not be limited to:
- Making periodic inspections of commercial and social service establishments.
- Enforcing provisions of Smoke-Free Air Act, Tobacco Product Regulation Act.
- Reviewing menu and menu boards to observe compliance with nutritional requirements aid at reducing and combating chronic diseases and obesity.
- Preparing inspection reports using handheld computers. Preparing and serving court summonses when specific violations of applicable City, State laws and regulations are found.
- Enforce anti-corruption control policies.
- Testifying at Office of Trials and Hearings, and other courts when required.
- Traveling throughout the five boroughs using mass transit.
PREFERRED SKILLS:
- Technical and scientific skills.
- Effective communication skills
- Excellent verbal, written, interpersonal and organizational skills as well as computer skills.
- Able to carry and constantly using approximately 20 pounds of inspection equipment.
Why you should work for us:
- Loan Forgiveness: As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal/state loan forgiveness and repayment assistance programs that lessen your payments or even fully forgive your full balance. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education's website (https://studentaid.gov/pslf/)
- Benefits: City employees are entitled to unmatched benefits such as:
o a premium-free health insurance plan that saves employees over $10K annually, per a 2024 assessment.
o additional health, fitness, and financial benefits may be available based on the position's associated union/benefit fund.
o a public sector defined benefit pension plan with steady monthly payments in retirement.
o a tax-deferred savings program and
o a robust Worksite Wellness Program that offers resources and opportunities to keep you healthy while serving New Yorkers.
- Work From Home Policy: Depending on your position, you may be able to work up to two days during the week from home.
- Job Security - you could enjoy more job security compared to private sector employment and be able to contribute to making NYC a healthy place to live and work.
Established in 1805, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health Department) is the oldest and largest health department in the U.S., dedicated to protecting and improving the health of NYC. Our mission is to safeguard the health of every resident and cultivate a city where everyone, regardless of age, background, or location, can achieve their optimal health. We provide a wide array of programs and services focused on food and nutrition, anti-tobacco support, chronic disease prevention, HIV/AIDS treatment, family and child health, environmental health, mental health, and social justice initiatives. As the primary population health strategist and policy authority for NYC, with a rich history of public health initiatives and scientific advancements, from addressing the 1822 yellow fever outbreak to the COVID-19 pandemic, we serve as a global leader in public health innovation and expertise.
Come join us and help to continue our efforts in making a difference in the lives of all New Yorkers!
The NYC Health Department is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation to all individuals. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact Sye-Eun Ahn, Director of the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, at [email protected] or 347-396-6549.
PUBLIC HEALTH SANITARIAN - 31215

Qualifications

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, including or supplemented by 30 semester credits in the physical and/or biological sciences, i.e., biology, botany, chemistry, geology, physics, physiology, and zoology; of which not more than 12 credit hours may be in the applied sciences, i.e., environmental technology, sanitation technology, medical technology, public health, infection control or food service; or
2. An associate degree from an accredited college, with 15 semester credits in the physical and/or biological sciences, of which not more than 6 credit hours may be in the applied sciences, and 5 years of experience as a public health technician assisting sanitarians and engineers in carrying out the various elements of prevention and control programs affecting the public's health.
Medical Requirement: Medical guidelines have been established for the position of Public Health Sanitarian. Candidates will be examined to determine whether they can perform the essential functions of the position of Public Health Sanitarian. Where appropriate, a reasonable accommodation will be provided for a person with a disability to enable him or her to take the examination, and /or to perform the essential functions of the job.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.


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