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Food Safety Inspector Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

MASTER-PJK SERVICE LLC

Production -SPEC

Landover, MD · On-site

$16.50 - $16.75/hr

Comply with all USDA regulatory guidelines, including proper documentation and cooperation during inspections or audits. * Participate in required training sessions for food safety, quality, and ...

MASTER-PJK SERVICE LLC

Production -SPEC

Landover, MD

$16.50 - $16.75/hr

Comply with all USDA regulatory guidelines, including proper documentation and cooperation during inspections or audits. * Participate in required training sessions for food safety, quality, and ...

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All JobsFood Safety Inspector JobsFood Safety Inspector Jobs in Reston, VA

Food Safety Inspector information

See Reston, VA salary details

$37.5K

$53.5K

$80.1K

How much do food safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for food safety inspector in Reston, VA is $53,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,600.00 and $62,900.00 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 are popular job titles related to Food Safety Inspector jobs in Reston, VA? For Food Safety Inspector jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Safety Inspector jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Food Safety Inspector jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Food Safety Inspector jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Food Safety Inspector job openings:
Food Safety Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Safety Inspector job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,531 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Dining/Catering Manager with Security Clearance

Dining/Catering Manager with Security Clearance

SOSi

Reston, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Company Description Founded in 1989, SOSi is among the largest private, founder-owned technology and services integrators in the defense and government services industry. We deliver tailored solutions, tested leadership, and trusted results to enable national security missions worldwide. Job Description Overview Contingent Upon Contract Award SOS International LLC is seeking a skilled Dining & Catering Manager to oversee food service operations. This role ensures deployed personnel, response teams, and mission support staff receive safe, high-quality meals during routine operations and emergency activations. The Dining & Catering Manager plays a critical role in sustaining workforce readiness and supporting the health, morale, and operational effectiveness of the teams. Duties: * Food Service Operations: Manages daily dining operations, catering services, and meal production for SOSi facilities and deployed teams. Oversees menu planning, food preparation, portioning, and service delivery to meet nutritional and operational requirements. Ensures compliance with food safety standards, sanitation protocols, and regulatory requirements (FDA Food Code, ServSafe, etc.).
* Emergency Response Support: Coordinates rapid-response catering and meal distribution during emergency activations. Supports field operations by organizing mobile feeding units, boxed meals, and surge feeding capabilities. Adjusts meal service schedules and production levels to meet changing mission demands.
* Vendor & Contractor Coordination: Manages relationships with food service vendors, caterers, and supply providers. Oversees procurement of food, beverages, and dining supplies. Monitors vendor performance, service agreements, and delivery timelines.
* Staff Leadership & Training: Supervises dining staff, kitchen personnel, and catering teams. Ensures staff maintain required food safety certifications and training. Establishes performance expectations and promotes a culture of safety, quality, and customer service.
* Quality Assurance & Compliance: Conducts routine inspections of kitchens, dining areas, and food storage facilities. Maintains documentation for audits, inspections, and ASPR reporting requirements. Implements corrective actions to address safety, quality, or operational issues.
* Planning & Administration: Develops meal plans, production schedules, and catering strategies for routine and emergency operations. Manages budgets, inventory, and cost controls for food service operations. Provides operational updates, risk assessments, and recommendations to program leadership. Qualifications * Associate's degree in culinary arts and/or certificate.
* 7 years experience in food service management, catering operations, or institutional dining.
* Strong knowledge of food safety regulations, sanitation standards, and meal production processes.
* Ability to manage high-volume or mission-critical food service environments.
* Experience supervising staff and coordinating with vendors or contractors.
* Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
* U.S. citizenship required.
* May have to obtain and maintain a Public Trust or Secret clearance (depending on customer).
Preferred Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in culinary arts.
* 10 years experience supporting emergency response, disaster relief, or remote feeding operations.
* Background in federal programs (HHS/ASPR, FEMA, DoD) or large-scale logistics environments.
* Certifications such as ServSafe Manager, CFPM, or equivalent.
* Experience supporting mobile kitchens or deployable feeding capabilities. Additional Information Work Environment * Travel to emergency sites is required.
* Position may require irregular hours during emergency activations.
Working at SOSi All interested individuals will receive consideration and will not be discriminated against for any reason.

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