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Health Inspector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Essential Job Functions BUILDING INSPECTOR Inspects residential and/or commercial construction for building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, energy, life safety, health, fire protection, and on ...

STATE INSPECTOR

Manassas, VA · On-site

$20 - $50/hr

Health insurance * Opportunity for advancement * Paid time off * 401(k) matching * Bonus based on ... Flexible schedule A state inspector auto repair job involves diagnosing and certifying vehicles to ...

RK&K is currently hiring Inspectors of all levels to join our Fairfax, VA team. TheConstruction ... Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances * Matching 401(k) plan * Paid Holidays

The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ... Health + Dental + Vision Benefits * 401K * Ongoing sales training and coaching * A robust social ...

Field Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Be our next Field Inspector. Your work environment at EXP In this role, the Field Inspector will ... Follow all safety, health, and environmental requirements while performing fieldwork. * Comply with ...

Be our next Field Inspector. Your work environment at EXP In this role, the Field Inspector will ... Follow all safety, health, and environmental requirements while performing fieldwork. * Comply with ...

The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ... Health + Dental + Vision Benefits * 401K * Ongoing sales training and coaching * A robust social ...

Field Inspector

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ... Health + Dental + Vision Benefits * 401K * Ongoing sales training and coaching * A robust social ...

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Health Inspector information

See Washington, DC salary details

$32.8K

$58.5K

$81.5K

How much do health inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for health inspector in Washington, DC is $58,495.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a health inspector?

To become a health inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in environmental health, public health, or a related field. Certification through the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) or state-specific licensing is often required, along with relevant experience in food safety, sanitation, or health regulations. Strong communication skills and knowledge of health codes are essential for this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a health inspector?

To become a health inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in environmental health, public health, or a related field. Relevant certifications, such as the Certified Food Safety Professional or state-specific licenses, are often required or preferred, along with knowledge of health codes and inspection procedures.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

Health inspectors with specialized certifications, such as environmental health or food safety, and those working in high-demand or high-cost areas tend to earn higher salaries. Senior or supervisory health inspectors also typically make more than entry-level staff, especially with experience and advanced training.

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

AspectHealth InspectorFood Safety Specialist
Required CredentialsEnvironmental health degree, certifications like REHS/RSFood safety certifications, environmental health background
Work EnvironmentInspecting restaurants, public health facilities, and food establishmentsDeveloping food safety protocols, conducting training, inspecting food production
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment health departments, local agenciesFood industry companies, regulatory agencies, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles in food safety and public healthRelated but more focused on food safety management

While both roles focus on food safety and public health, a Health Inspector primarily conducts inspections of public facilities, including restaurants, to ensure compliance with health regulations. A Food Safety Specialist often works within the food industry or regulatory agencies to develop safety protocols and train staff. Both require similar credentials and work environments, but their specific responsibilities and employer types differ.

What are health inspectors?

Health inspectors are public health professionals responsible for ensuring that businesses, especially those that handle food and sanitation, comply with local, state, and federal health regulations. They conduct routine inspections of restaurants, food processing plants, public pools, and other establishments to identify potential health hazards. Health inspectors educate business owners on health codes, issue citations for violations, and may shut down facilities that pose significant risks to public health. Their work helps prevent the spread of diseases and promotes safe, healthy environments for the community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Health Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Health Inspector, you need a solid understanding of public health regulations, safety standards, and inspection procedures, usually supported by a degree in environmental health, biology, or a related field. Familiarity with inspection software, data entry systems, and sometimes state certification or licensure is typically required. Strong attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication help you accurately identify violations and interact with business owners. These skills ensure the enforcement of health codes, protect public safety, and foster compliance in various establishments.

What are some common challenges Health Inspectors face when conducting inspections, and how can they effectively address them?

Health Inspectors often encounter challenges such as uncooperative business owners, incomplete records, or language barriers during inspections. To address these issues, inspectors rely on strong communication skills, professionalism, and a thorough understanding of health codes. Building rapport with staff, clearly explaining regulations, and being prepared with translated materials or interpreters can help ensure compliance. Staying updated on changing regulations and maintaining a calm, objective approach also support effective inspections.

What is the highest salary for a health inspector?

The highest salaries for health inspectors can exceed $70,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-cost regions. Senior or specialized health inspectors in government agencies or private sectors tend to earn the top salaries in the field.

What Does a Health Inspector Do?

A health inspector assesses various businesses, homes, and industrial facilities regarding their compliance with internal and external health and safety regulations. For this career, your responsibilities include assisting multiple industrial facilities, residences, and food service establishments to ensure they are complying with environmental standards and health codes. You must also help them provide safe, clean, and healthy work areas for their employees through routine checkups and effective policies.

What are popular job titles related to Health Inspector jobs in Washington, DC? For Health Inspector jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Health Inspector job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,495 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Codes Inspector

$67K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Summary This position is responsible for performing intermediate to difficult technical and intermediate administrative work in securing and maintaining compliance with ordinances and regulations relating to building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical codes, fire and life safety, health, occupational licensing, and nuisances within the City. This is code enforcement work requiring the application of technical and specialized knowledge, methods and techniques to ensure compliance with codes, City ordinances and approved plans, permits and specifications in new construction and certain existing buildings such as renovated structures and/or licensed facilities within the City. Incumbent makes independent field inspections, writes reports, correspondence and notices, gathers evidence, prepares cases and testifies in court when necessary.

The position requires continuing personal contact with the general public, contractors, architects, etc. concerning construction code requirements. The incumbent's work has meaningful impact on specific cases and is done under general managerial discretion.

Essential Job Functions BUILDING INSPECTOR Inspects residential and/or commercial construction for building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, energy, life safety, health, fire protection, and on-site utility construction to verify compliance with approved plans and applicable codes and specifications. Confers with and advises contractors, property owners, architects, and the general public regarding code requirements and solutions to problems. Conducts follow-up inspections to monitor compliance; and takes the appropriate action necessary in cases of non-compliance.

Investigates and resolves citizen complaints regarding code violations including working without permits and substandard construction. Maintains up to date knowledge of construction methods, codes and materials by attending seminars and classes, by independent study and by internet instruction. Maintains accurate documentation records of inspection results for all types of permits.

Prepare accurate violation notices and/or stop-work orders that are sent to property owners in order to obtain compliance with City codes. Issues orders and citations; gathers evidence, prepares cases for court/appellate consideration; and testifies in court as issuing officer and expert witness. Provides inspection assistance for after-hours emergencies to assess damage and authorize safe reconnection of electrical service to all structures damaged by fire or other means.

Assists the supervisor with special assignments and in training of new inspectors when necessary. Reviews plans, issues permits and provides assistance to contractors and the general public when assigned. Qualifications Building Inspector High school diploma and five (5) years' experience in building construction or code enforcement, or in the construction trade industry.

Special Qualifications: Building Inspector Possession of an appropriate valid driver's license. Possession of (or the ability to obtain) certification by ICC as a Commercial Building Inspector, and as a Residential Combination Inspector within a reasonable time as determined by the City. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities BUILDING INSPECTOR Knowledge of the ICC Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, Energy Codes, International Residential Code, the National Electrical Code, Maryland State ADA Codes, Maryland State Rehabilitation Code.

Knowledge of the City's zoning, and occupational ordinances and regulations. Knowledge of the methods, materials and techniques involved in all types of building construction, repair and alteration and the ability to recognize improper trade practices which result in faulty, sub-standard or hazardous conditions. Ability to read and interpret all types of blueprints, construction documents, working diagrams and specifications quickly and accurately, and to compare specifications with construction in progress.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with building owners, contractors, residents and co-workers. Ability to communicate effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing. Ability to operate computer systems and access databases.

Ability to convey accurate explanations of various codes, ordinances, regulations and the reasons therefore. Ability to work with and train co-workers effectively, playing an active part in a team environment. Ability to work effectively as a team participant.