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Food Safety Inspector Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Hilmar Cheese Company

Site Safety Manager

Hilmar, CA

We are a trusted partner to premier food and beverage brands in more than fifty countries helping ... Reviews plant Safety Team Meeting minutes and safety inspection reports and follows up as necessary.

DeRuosi Nut

Be Seen First

Quality Control Inspector for Walnuts

Escalon, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

QC Inspectors monitor product quality throughout receiving, processing, and packing, ensuring compliance with USDA/DFA grading standards, customer specifications, and food safety programs. This role ...

FullSteam

Safety & LP Supervisor

Stockton, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

... food distribution center team. This position is responsible for promoting a safe, secure, and ... Conduct routine safety inspections, facility audits, and risk assessments throughout the ...

Adecco

Safety Specialist

Modesto, CA

$33.84/hr

This role supports safety programs, conducts audits and inspections, investigates incidents ... Experience supporting EHS programs in manufacturing, distribution, logistics, or food and beverage ...

Adecco

Safety Specialist

Modesto, CA

$33.84/hr

This role supports safety programs, conducts audits and inspections, investigates incidents ... Experience supporting EHS programs in manufacturing, distribution, logistics, or food and beverage ...

Diamond Foods, LLC

Quality Control Supervisor

Stockton, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

... food safety, microbiology, and FDA regulations.Strong attention to detail and ability to analyze dataAbility to conduct thorough inspections and identify potential hazardsMust be able to work ...

OFI

Quality Control (Seasonal Grave Shift)

Livingston, CA · On-site

$24.54/hr

Perform all related quality control inspector tasks; inspection of product for physical attributes ... Food Safety * Experience in quality control and Nuts preferred * Ability to work in a changing ...

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All JobsFood Safety Inspector JobsFood Safety Inspector Jobs in Modesto, CA

Food Safety Inspector information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$38K

$54.3K

$81.2K

How much do food safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for food safety inspector in Modesto, CA is $54,285.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,100.00 and $63,800.00 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 Modesto, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Food Safety Inspector jobs in Modesto, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Safety Inspector jobs in Modesto, CA are:

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Food Safety Inspector jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Food Safety Inspector job openings:

Food Safety Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Safety Inspector job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,285 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Food Safety Process Specialist

Certified Group

Turlock, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise – So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.

Our Brands

Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:

  • Certified Laboratories – Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.
  • Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) – A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry.
  • Labstat – A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.
  • EAS Consulting Group – A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.
  • FSNS Certification & Audit – Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.

Job Summary:

The Process Authority applies knowledge of product characteristics, processing equipment, and validation methodologies to design, execute, and evaluate studies such as heat penetration, heat distribution, thermal process validations, and microbiological challenge studies. The role is responsible for analyzing study data, identifying critical process factors, and developing recommendations to support safe and compliant manufacturing processes.

The Process Authority works closely with Lab+, research teams, and clients to develop and optimize thermal process studies, providing technical evaluations and recommendations that support product trials, pilot runs, regulatory requirements, and commercialization efforts.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Lead client discussions related to thermal process validation studies and technical requirements.
  • Design and develop protocols, proposals, and reports for thermal process validation projects.
  • Conduct and/or oversee thermal validation studies, including heat penetration and heat distribution studies.
  • Evaluate study data and provide technical recommendations related to process safety and compliance.
  • Collaborate with research scientists, laboratory teams, and internal stakeholders on technical projects.
  • Support client projects requiring coordination across multiple teams and resources.
  • Prepare clear, accurate technical reports and presentations summarizing validation results.
  • Conduct on-site validations and provide technical support during client activities.
  • Support advanced technical studies, including process validations, product evaluations, and regulatory documentation.
  • Provide technical support to commercial teams and clients regarding food safety and process validation topics.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Engineering, or related scientific discipline.
  • 3–6 years of relevant experience in food processing, thermal validation, food safety, or related technical roles.
  • Experience working with or supporting qualified Process Authority activities, including thermal process validation, heat penetration studies, lethality evaluations, or process recommendations.
  • Working knowledge of FDA regulations, including 21 CFR 108, 113, and 114.
  • Experience supporting new product development, process scale-up, and commercialization activities.
  • Familiarity with ISO 17025 accreditation requirements preferred.
  • Experience with regulatory documentation, audits, inspections, or process compliance activities preferred.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills with attention to detail.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with clients and technical teams.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite applications (Excel, Word).
  • Experience with LIMS systems is a plus.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

  • Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens.
  • Use of PPE in the laboratory is required
  • Noise level varies from quiet to loud.
  • The temperature varies from hot to cold.
  • The environment is interactive and fast-paced.
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-4:30 pm


The compensation details provided below reflect the expected pay range for this role, based on the selected compensation structure and applicable guidelines. Actual pay within this range may vary depending on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, and geographic location. Additional components of total rewards—such as bonuses, benefits, or incentives—may also apply where applicable.

Salary Range for Pay Transparency
$29—$39 USD

By applying, you acknowledge that Certified Group will process your personal information for recruitment and hiring purposes in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Policy. California residents may review additional information about how we collect and use personal information, including retention and rights, in our California Notice at Collection. To view our Privacy Policy, click the link here: Certified Group Privacy Policy

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.