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Food Inspector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Food Authority

Food Safety Coordinator

Jessup, MD · On-site

Conduct internal audits, inspections, and corrective action follow-up activities. * Monitor regulatory compliance and prepare documentation for customer and regulatory audits. * Maintain food safety ...

US Inspect

Home Inspector

Rockville, MD · On-site

$55K - $105K/yr

About US Inspect Since 1987, US Inspect has been delivering top-tier residential inspection services. We operate with the heart and culture of a small business, but we equip our team with the ...

US Inspect

Home Inspector

Rockville, MD · On-site

$55K - $105K/yr

About US Inspect Since 1987, US Inspect has been delivering top-tier residential inspection services. We operate with the heart and culture of a small business, but we equip our team with the ...

US Inspect

Home Inspector

Rockville, MD · On-site

$55K - $105K/yr

About US Inspect Since 1987, US Inspect has been delivering top-tier residential inspection services. We operate with the heart and culture of a small business, but we equip our team with the ...

Opus Inspection

Lane Inspector

Annapolis, MD · On-site

This is a Full Time Lane Inspector Position. Opus is a world-leading vehicle inspection and intelligent vehicle support company that has been contributing to a safer and cleaner world since the ...

Mead & Hunt

Construction Inspector

Columbia, MD · On-site

$24.50 - $30/hr

From architecture, food/beverage processing, and federal to transportation, water infrastructure ... A Construction Inspector will be responsible for providing inspection services for transportation ...

Mead & Hunt

Construction Inspector

Columbia, MD · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

From architecture, food/beverage processing, and federal to transportation, water infrastructure ... A Construction Inspector will be responsible for providing inspection services for transportation ...

Unilode Aviation

Inspector

Sterling, VA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

The Inspector is responsible for conducting airworthiness inspections and supporting quality assurance activities within Unilode's repair station. The role ensures that all inspections, documentation ...

Unilode Aviation Solutions

Inspector

Sterling, VA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

Description The Inspector is responsible for conducting airworthiness inspections and supporting quality assurance activities within Unilode's repair station. The role ensures that all inspections ...

Unilode Aviation Solutions

Inspector

Sterling, VA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

The Inspector also contributes to workshop organisation, technical support, and regulatory audits, helping maintain highquality standards and on-time production. Key Responsibilities: Conduct ...

VSC Fire & Security

Inspector

Springfield, VA

$23 - $43/hr

VSC Fire & Security in Springfield, Virginia is seeking candidates for the position of Inspector . What we offer: * Excellent pay $23.00 - $43.00 based on experience * Overtime eligible * Company ...

Chipton Ross

Inspector

Rockville, MD · On-site

$36.88/hr

Job #219480 Chipton-Ross is seeking an Inspector for a contract opportunity in Rockville, MD. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE) Certification in the relevant workmanship standards ...

AmSpec Group

Inspector

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

Responsible for inspection and sampling work performed in the field, completion of all necessary paperwork, correct distribution of samples and timely communications with office staff. Primary Duties ...

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All JobsFood Inspector JobsFood Inspector Jobs in Washington, DC

Food Inspector information

See Washington, DC salary details

$12.5K

$46.2K

$71.4K

How much do food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for food inspector in Washington, DC is $46,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $49,300.00 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.
More about Food Inspector jobs

What are popular job titles related to Food Inspector jobs in Washington, DC?

For Food Inspector jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Inspector jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Inspector jobs in Washington, DC are:

Food Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Inspector job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,193 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Food Safety Coordinator

Food Authority

Jessup, MD • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Food Safety Coordinator Position Summary:

The Food Safety Coordinator is responsible for supporting and maintaining food safety, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and sanitation programs within a food storage and distribution, warehouse environment. This role works closely with operations and management teams to ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, HACCP, FSMA, GMP, SQF and customer requirements. This role serves as the sites SQF practitioner. The position reports directly to the Food Safety Manager.

Salary: 50K-55K DOE

Shift: 8AM-4:30PM

Days: Monday-Friday

Key Responsibilities, including but not limited to the following:
  • Maintain and monitor food safety and quality programs. Serves as the sites SQF practitioner.
  • Assist with HACCP, FSMA, GMP, sanitation, allergen control, and CAPA programs.
  • Conduct internal audits, inspections, and corrective action follow-up activities.
  • Monitor regulatory compliance and prepare documentation for customer and regulatory audits.
  • Maintain food safety records, logs, and training documentation.
  • Work with teams to Investigate food safety, quality, and customer complaints and implement corrective actions.
  • Support employee food safety and GMP training programs.
  • Work with operations teams to improve food safety performance and reduce risks.
  • Assist during third-party, customer, FDA, USDA, or local regulatory inspections.
  • Assist in verifying third-party receiving team practices to ensure compliance with food safety program and customer requirements.
  • Assist with holds, releases and disposal of product. Maintains accurate documentation.
  • Assist in quality inspection checks, gather information & reports findings to food safety manager.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • 2+ years in food manufacturing or food storage, distribution, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of HACCP, FSMA, GMPs, sanitation, and food industry regulations.
  • Familiarity with food distribution and or manufacturing is a plus.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Preferred Certifications:
  • HACCP Certification
  • PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual)
  • SQF or other GFSI-related training
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to walk warehouse areas regularly.
  • Ability to lift to 40 pounds occasionally.
  • Ability to work in refrigerated & freezer environments.
  • Occasional after-hours availability or schedule adjustments for audits, incidents, or regulatory deadlines.
Why join us?
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package.
  • Opportunity to play a role in safety, compliance and operational.
  • Collaborative and supportive work environment.

Apply