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Food Safety Inspector Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

What You'll Do Quality & Food Safety * Conduct analytical and sensory evaluations of raw materials ... Inspect packaging materials and finished products to verify compliance with quality standards.

New

What You'll Do Quality & Food Safety * Conduct analytical and sensory evaluations of raw materials ... Inspect packaging materials and finished products to verify compliance with quality standards.

New

Kitchen Team Lead - Hot Food

Lenexa, KS ยท On-site

$14.50 - $20/hr

Enforce all food safety, sanitation, labeling, and rotation standards to ensure compliance * Prepare for and support health inspections and ensure adherence to all local regulations * Manage ...

Kitchen Team Lead -Hot Food

Kansas City, KS ยท On-site

$14 - $19.25/hr

Enforce all food safety, sanitation, labeling, and rotation standards to ensure compliance * Prepare for and support health inspections and ensure adherence to all local regulations * Manage ...

Safety Supervisor

Dodge City, KS ยท On-site

$68K - $103K/yr

We are a trusted partner to premier food and beverage brands in more than fifty countries helping ... Conduct inspections of production facilities/processes towards providing a workplace free of known ...

Safety Supervisor

Dodge City, KS ยท On-site

$68K - $103K/yr

We are a trusted partner to premier food and beverage brands in more than fifty countries helping ... inspections of production facilities/processes towards providing a workplace free of known hazards ...

Safety Specialist

Overland Park, KS ยท On-site

$65K - $80K/hr

... food service, marina, retail, or similar operations. * OSHA 30-Hour certification or other safety-related certifications. * Experience conducting workplace inspections, audits, and incident ...

Kitchen Team Lead - Hot Food

Lenexa, KS ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... inspections and ensure adherence to all local regulationsManage inventory levels, order supplies ... Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health department regulationsPreferred: Experience ...

... inspections and ensure adherence to all local regulationsManage inventory levels, order supplies ... Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health department regulationsPreferred: Experience ...

... inspections and ensure adherence to all local regulationsManage inventory levels, order supplies ... Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health department regulationsPreferred: Experience ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Safety Inspector information

See Kansas salary details

$32.1K

$45.9K

$68.7K

How much do food safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for food safety inspector in Kansas is $45,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,800.00 and $54,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food safety inspector?

Food Safety Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that food products are safe, properly labeled, and comply with local, state, and federal regulations. They inspect food processing facilities, restaurants, and other food establishments to check for cleanliness, proper food handling, and storage practices. These inspectors also investigate complaints, collect samples for laboratory analysis, and educate food workers about safety standards. Their work helps protect public health by reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

What are some common challenges food safety inspectors face during inspections, and how are they addressed?

Food Safety Inspectors often encounter challenges such as non-compliance with regulations, resistance from facility staff, and time constraints when covering multiple locations. To address these issues, inspectors rely on strong communication skills to educate and collaborate with facility personnel, thorough documentation practices, and staying up-to-date with evolving food safety standards. Building rapport with businesses and maintaining professionalism helps foster cooperation and ensures that public health remains the top priority.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food safety inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Safety Inspector, you need a background in food science, microbiology, or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications and regulatory knowledge. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory equipment, and reporting systems like HACCP is crucial. Attention to detail, strong communication, and integrity are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure thorough inspections, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public health.

What is the difference between Food Safety Inspector vs Food Quality Auditor?

AspectFood Safety InspectorFood Quality Auditor
CertificationsFood Safety Certifications (e.g., ServSafe, HACCP)Quality Management Certifications (e.g., ISO 9001, HACCP)
Work EnvironmentInspecting food production facilities, restaurants, and processing plantsAuditing food manufacturing processes, quality systems, and compliance
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, food production companiesFood manufacturing, certification bodies, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in food safety enforcementAssessing food quality standards and compliance

The Food Safety Inspector primarily focuses on ensuring food safety compliance through inspections, while the Food Quality Auditor emphasizes evaluating and maintaining food quality standards. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within the food industry, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How do you become a food safety inspector?

To become a food safety inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education in food science, microbiology, or a related field. Relevant experience in food production or safety, along with certifications such as ServSafe or other food safety certifications, can improve job prospects. Inspectors often need to pass a state or federal exam and may be required to complete on-the-job training or specialized courses.

How hard is it to be a food safety inspector?

Becoming a food safety inspector requires completing relevant education, such as a high school diploma or higher, and obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification. The job involves inspecting food establishments, enforcing safety regulations, and often requires attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to handle sometimes challenging environments. The difficulty varies based on experience, training, and the complexity of inspections, but it generally involves a combination of education, certification, and on-the-job training.

How much do food safety inspectors make in the US?

Food safety inspectors in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, with experienced inspectors and those in certain regions earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, level of experience, certifications, and the employing agency, and inspectors often work in government agencies or private companies ensuring compliance with safety standards.

What are popular job titles related to Food Safety Inspector jobs in Kansas?

For Food Safety Inspector jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Safety Inspector jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Safety Inspector jobs in Kansas are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Food Safety Inspector jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Food Safety Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Safety Inspector job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,890 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Plant Food Safety & QA Manager

Smithfield Foods

Junction City, KS โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.

Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!

THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:

The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section.

Are you a results-driven Food Safety & Quality Assurance professional who thrives in fast-paced environments and knows how to spot risks before they become problems? At Smithfield Foods, you'll take the lead in ensuring our products-like Smithfield, Eckrich, and Nathan's Famous-meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance.

As Plant FSQA Manager, you'll manage all food safety and quality programs at the facility. You'll lead sanitation checks, enforce USDA and HAACP regulations, track products from start to finish, and implement corrective actions when needed. You'll also oversee the plant's quality systems, ensuring everything we produce is safe, consistent, and customer-ready.

In this role, you'll report to both plant and corporate FSQA leadership-driving continuous improvement, team performance, and regulatory excellence.

Ready to lead with impact? Join Smithfield and help deliver quality that's trusted nationwide.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

  • Ensure Regulatory Compliance & Verification: You'll oversee all food safety, quality, and regulatory programs to ensure USDA/FDA compliance, accurate documentation, and audit readiness. You'll lead root cause investigations, implement corrective actions, and maintain strong relationships with USDA inspectors.

  • Drive Food Safety & Quality Improvement: You'll work closely with FSQA and Operations teams to prevent HACCP, SSOP, and product or process failures. Through continuous improvement initiatives, you'll develop plans, strengthen process controls, and train staff to uphold high standards.

  • Lead Sanitation Programs: You'll design and manage the facility's sanitation program-including audits, microbial testing, and performance tracking. When issues arise, you'll take prompt, data-driven action to ensure cleanliness and compliance.

  • Manage SQF Systems: You'll lead the development, maintenance, and reassessment of SQF Food Safety and Quality Plans. You'll ensure the system stays current, compliant, and well-communicated to all relevant team members.

  • Supervise and Develop Your FSQA Team: You'll manage staffing, schedules, performance reviews, and training for FSQA personnel. In the absence of key team members, you'll ensure all responsibilities are covered through cross-training and effective delegation.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university and 5+ years' relevant experience in the food industry; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • 2+ years of demonstrated experience in team management/development or project leadership, required.

  • Must have the ability to complete required applicable forms in English, which requires the ability to read and write in English.

  • Technical Knowledge and Regulatory Compliance: Possesses hands-on experience with microbiological testing of meat and poultry products, along with a solid understanding of foodborne pathogens, microbiological and limited chemistry testing. Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of USDA, FSIS, HACCP, and SSOP requirements, and familiarity with QMS systems, SAP, and various database and inventory software tools.

  • Communication and Analytical Skills: Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to address inquiries from regulatory agencies, customers, and internal stakeholders. Skilled in decision-making, problem-solving, and responding to quality and compliance issues in a timely and effective manner. Maintains a high standard of documentation and compliance.

  • Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment with professionalism and adaptability.

  • Willingness to travel up to 10% and work extended hours or weekends as needed.

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:

  • USDA/HACCP Certification

  • SQF Certified Expert

  • Knowledge and understanding of quality assurance principles, food science and meat processing, SPC and statistics

  • Bilingual skills are a valuable asset, allowing you to communicate effectively in diverse, multicultural environments and enhance team collaboration.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Office and plant setting. The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.

  • Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud when in the production area.

  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds

  • Specific vision includes close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.

  • Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.

Relocation Package Available Yes

EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.