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Food Safety Inspector Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

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Food Service Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

$20/hr

Clean, inspect, and maintain kitchen equipment and work areas -- 10% * Follow all federal, state, and local food safety regulations -- 15% * Coordinate set-up and clean-up for food prep, production ...

HIKINEX

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General Production Worker - Food Manufacturing

Portage, WI · On-site

$15.50/hr

Package, label, and inspect food products * Remove products that do not meet quality standards ... Follow all food safety and quality procedures Requirements * Ability to work in a fast-paced ...

UW Health

Supervisor - Culinary Services

Madison, WI · On-site

Ensure food safety, quality, and compliance by overseeing product quality, temperature logs, FIFO practices, allergen awareness, ServSafe standards, and safety inspections. * Develop and support team ...

UW Health

Supervisor - Culinary Services

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Ensure food safety, quality, and compliance by overseeing product quality, temperature logs, FIFO practices, allergen awareness, ServSafe standards, and safety inspections. * Develop and support team ...

UWHealth

Supervisor - Culinary Services

Madison, WI

Ensure food safety, quality, and compliance by overseeing product quality, temperature logs, FIFO practices, allergen awareness, ServSafe standards, and safety inspections. * Develop and support team ...

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All JobsFood Safety Inspector JobsFood Safety Inspector Jobs in Madison, WI

Food Safety Inspector information

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$36.3K

$51.8K

$77.6K

How much do food safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for food safety inspector in Madison, WI is $51,847.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,300.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 a few 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 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 Food Safety Inspectors?

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 kind of inspectors make the most money?

Food safety inspectors with higher levels of experience, advanced certifications, or supervisory roles tend to earn the highest salaries. Inspectors working in large organizations or in regions with a higher cost of living may also earn more. Specialized inspectors, such as those overseeing complex food processing facilities, often have higher earning potential.

How do I become a food inspector?

To become a food safety 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. Relevant experience in food production or safety, along with certifications such as ServSafe or food safety management programs, can improve job prospects. State or federal agencies may also require passing written exams and background checks.

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.

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 job categories do people searching Food Safety Inspector jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Food Safety Inspector jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Food Safety Inspector jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Food Safety Inspector job openings:
Food Safety Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Safety Inspector job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,847 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Food Safety and Quality Technician

Ab E Manufacturing

Waterloo, WI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

OVERVIEW: Ab E Manufacturing (AbEM) operates a 25,000-square-foot commercial facility and pilot-scale lab in Waterloo, WI, specializing in process development and manufacturing of chemical & bio-functional products for human/animal health and nutrition.DESCRIPTION: The Food Safety and Quality (FSQ) Technician focuses on efficiently ensuring the safety of our ingredients and finished product with an emphasis on food safety and quality. This position reports to the Director of FSQR.QUALIFICATIONS:High School Diploma or equivalent College degree in Food Science or adjacent field preferred.Strong verbal and written communication skills (Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with co-workers).Ability to think critically, troubleshoot and problem solve.Able to work well independently, self-motivated, and as a team member.Able to meet the physical requirements of the position requiring heavy lifting up to 50 pounds carrying tools and supplies, kneeling, stooping, climbing, and standing on feet for long periods of time.RESPONSIBILITIES:Responsibilities and job duties include, but are not limited to:Ensure work areas in the production and warehouse floor follow plant GMP requirements and meet all local, state and federal regulations.Conducts raw material, work in process, and finished good sampling and conducts incoming receipt inspections.Assist production with tests of raw and finished products to ensure products and documentation comply with standards, regulations and customer specifications.Prepare/composite samples for 3rd party lab for analysis.Perform physical analyses and other specified lab tests utilizing defined methods and specifications.Assist with clean equipment inspections and line clearance activities for manufacturing operations.Assist with label control and reconciliations activities.Maintain retain sample inventory.Create accurate records, all conducted according to established policies and procedures.Assist with raw material specification evaluation, releases, holds, and other disposition decisions.Ensure appropriate segregation and labeling of products based on quality statusConduct maintenance and cleaning of sample prep area and related hold areas in warehouse.Provide on the floor support to help with the investigation and troubleshooting of any food safety, quality, or process control related issues.Assists FSQR in the collection of data for the purpose of improving products and systems as necessary.Perform verification system checks to ensure sanitation and quality systems are on track.Performs internal plant GMP audit and corrects findings on the floor.Assists in the investigation process when there are quality deviations and reports on holds.Performs line inspections for startup and throughout the shift as necessary.Responsible for quality systems monitoring (i.e., glass, brittle plastic, adequate lighting, etc.)Reviews in-process paperwork ensuring compliance to GDP requirements and other internal policies and proceduresPerform Product documentation control, scanning and filingPerforms other related duties as assigned by management.Takes initiative and suggest improvementsBENEFITSCompetitive hourly pay, commensurate with experience.Access to medical, dental and vision insurance for employee and immediate family.Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual program and Floating Holidays.LOCATION: This is a full-time position and requires the candidate to be on site in Waterloo, WI. Traditional hours are Monday through Friday, 7am 3:30pm. Occasional hours outside of normal business hours as needed.