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Health Department Restaurant Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seacliff Inn

Sous Chef

Aptos, CA

$71K - $76K/yr

Maintain sanitation standards through knowledge of health department standards and regulations. • ... restaurant and hotel. • Perform other duties as assigned, requested or deemed necessary by ...

Pacifica Hotel Company

Sous Chef

Aptos, CA · On-site

$71K - $76K/yr

Maintain sanitation standards through knowledge of health department standards and regulations. • ... restaurant and hotel. • Perform other duties as assigned, requested or deemed necessary by ...

Seacliff Inn

Sous Chef

Aptos, CA · On-site

$71K - $76K/yr

Maintain sanitation standards through knowledge of health department standards and regulations. • ... restaurant and hotel. • Perform other duties as assigned, requested or deemed necessary by ...

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Health Department Restaurant Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do health department restaurant inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for health department restaurant inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Health Department Restaurant Inspector do?

A Health Department Restaurant Inspector is responsible for ensuring that restaurants and other food establishments comply with health and safety regulations. They conduct regular inspections to check for proper food handling, cleanliness, pest control, and overall sanitary conditions. Inspectors educate staff on safe food practices and issue warnings or citations if violations are found. Their work helps prevent foodborne illnesses and protects public health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Health Department Restaurant Inspector?

To thrive as a Health Department Restaurant Inspector, you need a background in public health, food safety, and sanitation, often supported by a relevant degree or certification such as Certified Professional–Food Safety (CP-FS). Familiarity with inspection management software, regulatory codes, and documentation systems is crucial for accurate reporting and compliance. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and diplomacy are essential soft skills for addressing violations and educating restaurant staff. These abilities ensure public health is protected through consistent enforcement of food safety standards and constructive interactions with food service establishments.

What are some common challenges faced by Health Department Restaurant Inspectors during their inspections?

Health Department Restaurant Inspectors often encounter challenges such as balancing strict adherence to health codes with educating restaurant staff, dealing with language barriers, and managing tense situations if violations are found. Inspectors must remain objective and professional while clearly communicating issues and recommendations to ensure public safety. Additionally, they may need to adapt quickly to a variety of restaurant environments and schedules, sometimes working evenings or weekends to accommodate business hours.

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

AspectHealth Department Restaurant InspectorFood Safety Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a state or local health inspector certificationOften holds certifications like ServSafe or HACCP
Work EnvironmentInspects restaurants and food establishments for complianceDevelops and implements food safety protocols, may work in labs or corporate settings
Employer & IndustryGovernment health departments, local agenciesFood production companies, consulting firms, regulatory agencies

While both roles focus on food safety, the Health Department Restaurant Inspector primarily conducts on-site inspections to enforce health codes, whereas the Food Safety Specialist develops safety protocols and educates food businesses. The inspector role is more regulatory and inspection-focused, while the specialist often works in advisory and training capacities.

How can I become a health department restaurant inspector?

To become a health department restaurant inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices. Many states require certification, such as the Certified Food Safety Manager credential, and some positions may require relevant experience in food service or environmental health. Inspectors often need to pass a training program and stay current with food safety regulations.

How hard is it to become a health department restaurant inspector?

Becoming a health department restaurant inspector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant training or experience in food safety and sanitation. Many inspectors obtain certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager certification and may need to complete specialized training provided by health departments. The job involves understanding health codes, conducting inspections, and sometimes passing written exams, making it moderately challenging but accessible with proper preparation.
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What states have the most Health Department Restaurant Inspector jobs?

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Health Department Restaurant Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Health Department Restaurant Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Seasonal Restaurant Associate

New York Aquarium

New York, NY • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Department: Restaurant Services
Location: New York Aquarium
Employment Type: Temporary Associate
Status: Non-Exempt
Grade Level: Hourly
Pay Rate: $17/hour
Reports To: Seasonal Supervisors, Managers and Full-Time Management Staff
Schedule: Must be able to work weekends and holidays; weekday hours also available
Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM, dependent on weather and guest attendance; schedule subject to change through the spring and summer. Hours are subject to change on short notice depending on weather and needs of the business
Overview of restaurant responsibilities
    Ensuring quality standards of all products by adhering to local, state, and federal food handling, preparation, and portioning procedures
    Prepare and sell WCS food items and increase sales through cross and up-selling
    Collect payment for items, adhere to all cash handling and inventory policies and procedures
    Provide consistent quality offerings through the proper preparation and display of goods
    Maintain cleanliness and organization of assigned work areas, as instructed
    Stock shelves or process deliveries, following departmental inventory control procedures
    Complete other assignments and helping others on the team as required
    Daily Cleaning
    Comply with coursework and regulations for all Health Department licenses, as required
Maintenance Responsibilities
    Remove debris and empty trash receptacles from restaurant seating and public areas.
    General sanitation of restaurants, carts, depots and commissary.
    Deep cleaning of equipment, walls, floors, ceilings etc. as assigned
    Operate light weight grounds equipment (i.e., pressure washer, leaf blower, etc.)
    Adhere to local, state, and federal cleanliness, food handling, food storage procedure
PERKS of Working with Us:
    Free employee access to 5 Parks: surround yourself with animals of all kinds and getting the opportunity to interact and engage with like-minded individuals
    Complimentary Guest Park 5 Tickets + 1 Complimentary Parking (After 45 days)
    Company provided uniforms
    Park Discounts on Merchandise, Food purchases, Memberships and Daily Complimentary Meal
    Access to online learning and tuition discounts with Monroe College
    Earned Paid Sick Time (when reached a total of hours)
    Employee Assistance Program
    Free Banking
 

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