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Food Safety Inspector Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

EHS Manager

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Conduct and oversee safety inspections, audits, and incident investigations; perform root cause ... food industry preferred). * 2-3+ years of direct team management or supervisory experience in an ...

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Maintenance Associate

Bogart, GA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Key Responsibilities Perform routine preventive maintenance and inspections on specialized ... Adhere to strict food safety, hygiene, and OSHA industrial safety standards. Respond promptly to ...

Warehouse Associate I

Jefferson, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

... Inspections) * Remove product from production area. * Ensure all units are stacked at proper height ... Quality/GMP/Food Safety * Responsible for handling, transporting, and storing materials and ...

Warehouse Associate I

Jefferson, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

... Inspections) * Remove product from production area. * Ensure all units are stacked at proper height ... Quality/GMP/Food Safety * Responsible for handling, transporting, and storing materials and ...

Warehouse Associate I

Jefferson, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

... Inspections) * Remove product from production area. * Ensure all units are stacked at proper height ... Quality/GMP/Food Safety * Responsible for handling, transporting, and storing materials and ...

Forklift Operator

Buckhead, GA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Inspect product being moved for shortages, damage, quality, or deterioration of packing and report ... Supports food safety policies, standard operating procedures, and prerequisite food safety control ...

Co Manager - (RT284)

Commerce, GA · On-site

$50K - $64K/yr

... team on food safety standards * Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies * Maintain and organize required documentation for audits or inspections Drive Results Through ...

Co Manager - (RT643)

Athens, GA · On-site

$47K - $61K/yr

... team on food safety standards * Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies * Maintain and organize required documentation for audits or inspections Drive Results Through ...

Co Manager - (RT2592)

Athens, GA · On-site

$45K - $58K/yr

... team on food safety standards * Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies * Maintain and organize required documentation for audits or inspections Drive Results Through ...

Co Manager - (RT51)

Watkinsville, GA

$48K - $62K/yr

... team on food safety standards * Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies * Maintain and organize required documentation for audits or inspections Drive Results Through ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Safety Inspector information

See Athens, GA salary details

$34.8K

$49.7K

$74.4K

How much do food safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for food safety inspector in Athens, GA is $49,684.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $58,400.00 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 Athens, GA?

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

What cities near Athens, GA are hiring for Food Safety Inspector jobs?

Cities near Athens, GA with the most Food Safety Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Safety Inspector job openings in Athens, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,684 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

A Dietary Manager in a nursing home oversees the food service department to ensure residents receive safe, nutritious, and palatable meals that meet their individual dietary needs. This role combines clinical nutrition knowledge with operational management to support resident health and satisfaction.

Core Responsibilities

1. Menu Planning & Dietary Programs

  • Develop, implement, and maintain menus that meet therapeutic, cultural, and personal preference needs while adhering to nutrition standards and budget constraints.

  • Prepare and file special diet menus, noting all changes and resident requirements.

  • Collaborate with dietitians, physicians, and nursing staff to tailor meals to medical conditions and preferences.

2. Food Safety & Sanitation

  • Enforce strict sanitation and food handling standards (e.g., HACCP, ServSafe).

  • Monitor temperature control, cleaning schedules, and pest control logs.

  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including CMS requirements for long-term care.

3. Staff Management

  • Hire, train, coach, and evaluate dietary staff.

  • Set work schedules, assign daily tasks, and ensure coverage.

  • Conduct in-service training on food safety, sanitation, and modified diet preparation.

4. Operations & Budget

  • Manage daily food service operations, including meal preparation, plating, and delivery.

  • Order and manage inventory of food and supplies, checking invoices and verifying prices/weights.

  • Prepare and control the dietary operating budget, including food, labor, and supplies.

5. Resident & Patient Care

  • Visit residents to assess dietary needs, preferences, and allergies.

  • Provide dietary instructions as ordered by healthcare providers.

  • Maintain records of special diets and resident nutritional assessments.

6. Quality Assurance & Compliance

  • Conduct audits of meal service for temperature, portion control, and palatability.

  • Maintain documentation for regulatory surveys and inspections.

Required Skills & Qualifications
  • Education & Certification: Degree in dietetics, food service management, or related field; Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) credential preferred.

  • Experience: 2+ years in food service management, ideally in healthcare or long-term care.

  • Skills: Strong organizational, budgeting, and interpersonal skills; knowledge of nutrition science and food safety regulations.

In summary: The Dietary Manager in a nursing home is responsible for leading the food service team, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, and delivering high-quality, personalized meals that support resident health and well-being.