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Health Department Inspector Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Anne Arundel County, MD

Combination Inspector

MD · On-site

$65K - $127K/yr

Anne Arundel County, MD Job Type: Full-Time Permanent Job Number: 8760 Department: Inspections and ... Medical/Health Insurance Plans * BlueChoice Advantage EPO * BlueChoice Advantage PPO * Dental ...

Anne Arundel County, MD

License Inspector

MD · On-site

$52K - $84K/yr

Anne Arundel County, MD Job Type: Full-Time Permanent Job Number: 8721 Department: Inspections and ... Medical/Health Insurance Plans * BlueChoice Advantage EPO * BlueChoice Advantage PPO * Dental ...

Pro-Type Industries

Quality Inspector

Sterling, VA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Health, dental, vision, sick and vacation leave, on site gym, and more * 401k with a generous ... Support Quality Department and other Pro-Type activities as requested. * Perform other duties in ...

CentiMark Corporation

Branch Safety Inspector

Jessup, MD · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Responsible for all Safety Department Responsibilities * Assist in setting up fall protection, pre ... Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, not required Premier Benefits: * 2 Health Insurance Plans:

CentiMark Corporation

Branch Safety Inspector

Jessup, MD · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Responsible for all Safety Department Responsibilities * Assist in setting up fall protection, pre ... Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, not required Premier Benefits: * 2 Health Insurance Plans:

STV

Buildings / Facilities Inspector

Fairfax, VA

$61K - $70K/yr

STV is seeking a Buildings / Facilities Inspector to join our CEI department at our Virginia Beach ... Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance * Monitor adherence to site safety requirements.

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Health Department Inspector information

See Washington salary details

$27.7K

$62.2K

$112.1K

How much do health department inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for health department inspector in Washington is $62,224.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $71,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a health department inspector?

Health Department Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that public facilities, such as restaurants, schools, and other establishments, comply with health and safety regulations. They conduct inspections, investigate complaints, and enforce local, state, and federal health codes to protect public health. Inspectors may collect samples, review safety protocols, and educate facility staff on proper hygiene and sanitation practices. Their work helps prevent the spread of disease and ensures that environments are safe for the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a health department inspector?

To thrive as a Health Department Inspector, you need a background in public health, environmental science, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree and relevant certifications. Familiarity with inspection tools, food safety protocols, and digital reporting systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, impartial judgment, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this position. These competencies ensure thorough inspections, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public health in various environments.

What are some common challenges health department inspectors face during inspections, and how can they effectively address them?

Health Department Inspectors often encounter challenges such as uncooperative business owners, incomplete documentation, or discovering violations that require immediate corrective action. To effectively address these issues, inspectors rely on clear communication, thorough knowledge of health regulations, and problem-solving skills. Building rapport with facility staff and maintaining professionalism helps facilitate compliance and ensures public health standards are met. Additionally, inspectors often collaborate with colleagues and supervisors to resolve complex cases and provide education to establishments.

What is the difference between Health Department Inspector vs Food Safety Inspector?

AspectHealth Department InspectorFood Safety Inspector
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles require certifications in health or safetyHigh school diploma; certifications in food safety or sanitation often preferred
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, inspection sites, community settingsFood processing plants, restaurants, retail food establishments
Employer & IndustryLocal/state health departments, government agenciesFood industry, regulatory agencies, health departments
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for inspection roles in public healthCompared for food safety and sanitation roles

The Health Department Inspector and Food Safety Inspector roles share similarities in certifications and work environments, often overlapping in public health and safety inspections. However, Health Department Inspectors typically have broader responsibilities, including inspecting various health hazards, while Food Safety Inspectors focus specifically on food safety and sanitation standards within food establishments.

How hard is it to become a health department inspector?

Becoming a health department inspector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in health, environmental science, or a related field. Candidates often need to pass written exams, complete on-the-job training, and obtain relevant certifications such as the Certified Food Safety Professional (CFSP) or similar credentials. The process involves gaining experience in health or food safety roles and meeting state or local licensing requirements, which can vary in difficulty depending on the region and specific job standards.

How much do health department inspectors get paid?

Health department inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced inspectors or those in high-cost areas can earn higher wages. Many inspectors also receive benefits such as health insurance and paid leave.

How to become a health department inspector?

To become a health department inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or a background in health sciences. Relevant experience in food safety, environmental health, or public health is often required, along with passing a written exam and obtaining state or local certification. Strong communication skills and knowledge of health regulations are essential for success in this role.

Is there a demand for health department inspectors?

The demand for health department inspectors is generally strong due to ongoing public health needs and regulatory requirements. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as health standards and safety regulations become more stringent, requiring inspectors to ensure compliance in various settings such as restaurants, hospitals, and food processing facilities.
Health Department Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Health Department Inspector job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,224 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Combination Inspector

MD • On-site

Anne Arundel County, MD
Executive Offices and Legislative Bodies • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Anne Arundel County, MDexternal

$65K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Anne Arundel County rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Salary: $65,634.00 - $127,500.00 Annually
Location : Anne Arundel County, MD
Job Type: Full-Time Permanent
Job Number: 8760
Department: Inspections and Permits
Opening Date: 08/26/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Description
Anne Arundel County Government is currently hiring for a full-time, permanent, safety-sensitive Combination Inspector position in the Office of Inspections and Permits.
This is skilled inspection work in securing and maintaining compliance with building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical codes and regulations governing residential construction.
NATURE AND VARIETY OF WORK
Work involves inspecting plans, blueprints, and diagrams of residential building construction, and inspecting the construction at the work site for compliance with legally established requirements. Work requires the exercise of independent judgment in the interpretation of codes and regulations. Work is performed under general supervision and is reviewed by a superior for conformance with departmental and county policies, codes, and regulations.
Examples of Duties and Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
(Note: The duties and responsibilities enumerated in this class specification are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimum qualifications and salary level for all positions in this class. They are not intended to include all of the essential functions of all positions in the class.)
  • Conducts final inspections and reviews plans and specifications for construction of residential structures; checks for possession of permits; checks for conformity with building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical codes and approved plans and specifications.
  • Uses the call-in system to record and report all pertinent data on each project assigned; keeps other inspection records as required.
  • Receives calls from citizens, contractors, and developers; answers questions, provides status, and resolves routine problems related to construction projects. Coordinates with specialized inspectors and/or supervisors on the resolution of more complex or difficult technical problems.
  • Issues violation notices and stop work orders; testifies in court and before licensing boards regarding non-compliance issues.
  • Attends training and continuing education events as required. Performs specialized inspections in area of expertise.
  • Investigates complaints relative to building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical code requirements.
  • Confers with and advises contractors, owners, architects, attorneys, and the general public relative to interpretation and application of the building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical codes, zoning ordinance, and other applicable laws, ordinances, and regulations.
  • Performs other related work as required
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Considerable knowledge of the methods, materials, and techniques involved in building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical construction, repair, and alteration.
  • Considerable knowledge of possible defects and flaws in building construction and of effective corrective measures.
  • Considerable knowledge of regulations and laws relating to building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical construction and zoning.
  • Ability to detect and locate defective workmanship and materials and to ascertain the stage of construction when defects are most easily found and remedied.
  • Ability to understand and work from plans, drawings, and diagrams.
  • Ability to enforce regulations with firmness, tact, and impartiality.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, craftsmen, building owners, contractors, and the public.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Minimum Qualifications
Education: Graduation from high school
Expereince: Two (2) or more years of experience in the field of construction, including experience in inspection and code enforcement; International Code Council certification as a residential combination inspector; and a valid non-commercial Class C motor vehicle operator's license.
NOTE: This position is Safety Sensitive, and employees in this position are subject to Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) And Alcohol testing.
  • Medical/Health Insurance Plans
    • BlueChoice Advantage EPO
    • BlueChoice Advantage PPO
  • Dental Insurance
    • CIGNA Dental PPO (Buy-Up)
    • CIGNA Dental PPO (CORE)
    • CIGNA Dental HMO (DHMO)
  • Vision Insurance
    • EyeMed
  • Employee Life Insurance
    • Term insurance of up to 2 times salary ($100,000 maximum) for employees at no cost.
    • Ability to purchase Supplemental & Dependent Life Insurance
  • Disability Income Insurance
  • Pension Plan
    • Normal retirement after 30 years of service or Age 60 and 10 years of service or election to enroll in the Employees Retirement Savings Plan.
  • Deferred Compensation Section 457 Plan
  • Direct Deposit
  • Credit Union
  • Holidays
    • Twelve days provided per year, thirteen in general election year
  • Annual Leave
    • Less than 3 years - 13 days
    • 3 to less than 15 years - 20 days
    • 15 years or more - 26 days
  • Disability Leave
    • Accrual at a rate of 15 days a year
  • Personal Leave Day, 5 per calendar year
  • Leave Sharing
  • Employee Assistance Program
    • Free, confidential counseling for employee and family members 4X per year per problem per family member; also counseling on legal and financial issues; assistance in locating childcare and elder care
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
    • Dependent Care Reimbursement
    • Health Care Reimbursement
  • Voluntary Benefits
    • Provides you an opportunity to enroll in any or all of the benefits listed below with the convenience of payroll deduction
    • Universal Life Insurance with Long Term Care Rider
    • United Legal Benefits

01
The supplemental questions are a very important first step in our screening process. Therefore, you are required to accurately and completely respond to each question by providing the information asked in each question. Your responses will be used to initially determine your qualifications and eligibility for this position. DO NOT INDICATE "SEE RESUME" OR CUT AND PASTE YOUR RESUME IN RESPONSE TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONS.This response and a lack of detail and explanation in the supplemental questions and in your application may result in failure or disqualification for this position. THIS MEANS YOU MAY BE INELIGIBLE FOR FURTHER CONSIDERATION IN THIS RECRUITMENT PROCESS. Please check "yes" to show that you have read and understand this statement.
  • Yes
  • No

02
This position is "Safety Sensitive". This means, employees in this position are subject to Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) and Alcohol testing. Please check "yes" if you understand this condition of employment.
  • Yes
  • No

03
Did a county employee refer you? If yes, indicate their name, department and badge/id number. If you weren't referred by an Employee indicate N/A.
04
Did you graduate from High School or do you have a GED?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have two (2) or more years of experience in the field of construction, including experience in inspection and code enforcement?
  • Yes
  • No

06
If you answered "Yes" to the question above, please explain your experience, including position title, length of time in position, and major duties.This experience MUST also appear in the work history section of your application.If you answered "No," please write N/A
07
Do you have an International Code Council certification as a residential combination inspector?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Do you have a valid non-commercial Class C motor vehicle operator's license?
  • Yes
  • No

09
Do you have other certification(s) in relevant construction trade industries, such as building, structural, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing? Please state which one, along with the certification/license number. If you don't have any additional certifications, please type "N/A"
Required Question

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