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Food Inspector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

Inspector

Laurel, MD · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

Inspector

Arlington, VA · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

Inspector

Sterling, VA

$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 ...

Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance ...

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 ...

Inspector

Springfield, VA · On-site

$37 - $47/hr

VSC Fire & Security in Springfield, Virginia is seeking candidates for the position of Inspector . What we offer: * Excellent pay $37.00 - $47.00 and up based on experience * Overtime eligible

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 ...

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 ...

Quality Inspector The Quality Inspector performs validation and inspection activities to verify that materials, components, and finished products meet stringent space-flight quality standards. This ...

... food services; motorpool and logistics operations; and physical and technical security services. As the Bio-Retention Pond Inspector , you will support environmental compliance, stormwater management ...

... food services; motorpool and logistics operations; and physical and technical security services. As the Bio-Retention Pond Inspector , you will support environmental compliance, stormwater management ...

M&J is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater, water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and design-build ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 15, 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 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.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

Food inspectors with advanced certifications, supervisory roles, or specialized expertise tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors working in large organizations or in regions with higher living costs generally make more, and those with experience and additional training can advance to higher-paying positions such as senior or lead inspector.

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 obtain specific state or federal 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 a few months. Many inspectors also gain experience through on-the-job training or related food safety or health inspection roles before qualifying for full certification or licensing, which can take additional months depending on the jurisdiction.

What qualifications do I need to be a quality inspector?

Food inspectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or specialized training in food safety or microbiology. Certification from relevant agencies, such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, is often preferred or required, along with knowledge of food safety standards and inspection procedures.
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:

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

About the Role:

Elite Building Services is looking for a Full Time and/or Part Time Quality Assurance Inspector in multiple areas across Washington DC. Quality Assurance Inspectors will be responsible for inspecting assigned locations to determine the services being provided meets the standards of Elite Building Services. The Quality Assurance Inspectors will provide a detailed report of all findings through the Elite Building Services approved inspection software to the appropriate Operations Manager. The inspector will be responsible for highlighting any/all issues and/or concerns that need to be addressed by Elite Building Services with our cleaning staff.

Areas of Service:

  • Washington, DC

Responsibilities Include:

  • Demonstrate a strong understanding of Elite Building Services Cleaning Standards to ensure inspections are focused on the correct results
  • Demonstrate a strong understanding of the cleaning/maintenance industry standards
  • Inspect assigned locations in a timely manner
  • Provide honest and detailed feedback
  • Recommend any necessary adjustments and/or changes to services being provided

Quality Assurance Inspector Skills and Qualifications

  • Must possess a strong attention to detail
  • Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
  • Must have a smart phone
  • Must be available to visit various locations in assigned area
  • Must be able to work within standard business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm)
  • Prior experience working in the cleaning industry is a plus but not required
  • Must use personal vehicle
  • Must have a valid driver’s license
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States

Additional Info Needed:

Compensation: $20 Flat Rate per Location

Schedule: Two to three days minimum during standard business hours - Monday-Friday; 8am to 5:00pm.