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Food Safety Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

The Food Safety Associate ensures a sustainable, safe, clean, and functional environment in the ... Ensure the facility is always ready for inspection by local regulator or third party auditor

Serve as the primary food safety authority for regulatory agencies, third-party audits, and inspections; own inspection readiness, execution, and corrective action management * Oversee preventive ...

Senior Manager, Food Safety

Seattle, WA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Serve as the primary food safety authority for regulatory agencies, third-party audits, and inspections; own inspection readiness, execution, and corrective action management * Oversee preventive ...

Serve as the primary food safety authority for regulatory agencies, third-party audits, and inspections; own inspection readiness, execution, and corrective action management * Oversee preventive ...

The Food Safety Associate ensures a sustainable, safe, clean, and functional environment in the ... Ensure the facility is always ready for inspection by local regulator or third party auditor

Food Safety Associate

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30/hr

The Food Safety Associate ensures a sustainable, safe, clean, and functional environment in the ... Ensure the facility is always ready for inspection by local regulator or third party auditor

The Quality Control Inspector is responsible for reviewing and verifying product labeling to ensure ... Performs verification of food safety and quality checks established in the KC-Everett Plant's HACCP ...

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Showing results 1-20

Food Safety Inspector information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$41K

$58.6K

$87.6K

How much do food safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for food safety inspector in Seattle, WA is $58,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,400.00 and $68,800.00 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 Seattle, WA? For Food Safety Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Food Safety Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Food Safety Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Food Safety Inspector jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Food Safety Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Safety Inspector job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,557 per year, or $28.2 per hour.
Food Safety Associate

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

The role:

The Food Safety Associate ensures a sustainable, safe, clean, and functional environment in the CookUnity Commissary.

Responsibilities:
  • Monitor food production and ensure all Chefs are adhering to food safety regulations
  • Perform critical checks including refrigeration, chemical concentration and and temperature checks
  • Communicate kitchen rules to Chefs as needed- gloves, hairnets, proper hand washing, cleaning of equipment, sanitizing of prep stations, etc.
  • Ensures all items in coolers and freezers are appropriately labeled. (Labels must include Chef Name, Product Name and Date)
  • Daily facility compliance walks including corrective actions
  • Work closely with other departments such as Kitchen Operations, Supply Chain and Maintenance to correct issues affecting food safety and quality.
  • Ensure the facility is always ready for inspection by local regulator or third party auditor
  • Ensure all walk-in coolers and stand alone fridges remain closed and temperature is at 41 degrees or lower
  • Perform weekly thermometer calibrations for Chefs and Food Safety team
  • Collaborate with other members of Food Safety team in Chef and employee training on food safety and sanitation topics
  • Perform facility and department audits
  • Collect and provide data on cooler function and sanitary transport to operations and facilities teams

Minimum Requirements:
  • Experience working in a high compliance food processing facility (USDA, FDA)
  • Positive and committed to doing the right thing
  • Experience working with a team in a fast paced environment
  • Good communication skills and ability to speak in a professional manner to a wide range of partners and stakeholders
  • Ability to build relationships and explain food safety concepts in plain language
  • Ability to work independently and complete assigned duties without direct supervision
  • Proficiency G Suite/Google Workspace.
  • Team player with a positive, collaborative mindset
  • Ability to work 30-40 hours per week.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish preferred


Benefits
  • Competitive hourly rates
  • Medical, Dental and Vision
  • 401K
  • Opportunities for advancement


If you're interested in this role, please submit your application and if we think you might be a fit, we'll get in touch with you. Thank you for your time!

CookUnity is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are dedicated to creating a community of inclusion and an environment free from discrimination or harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or physical or mental disability.