ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Health Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsHealth Inspector Jobs

Health Inspector information

See salary details

$29K

$51.7K

$72K

How much do health inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for health inspector in the United States is $51,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a health inspector?

To become a health inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by postsecondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in environmental health, public health, or a related field. Certification or licensing may be required, which involves passing an exam and gaining relevant work experience in health and safety inspections. Strong knowledge of health codes, attention to detail, and communication skills are essential for the role.

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 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.

More about Health Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Health Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Health Inspector job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Health Inspector jobs? The most popular types of Health Inspector jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Health Inspector jobs? The top employers for Health Inspector jobs are:
What states have the most Health Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Health Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Health Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Health Inspector jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Health Inspector jobs? For Health Inspector jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Health Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Health Inspector job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,666 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Public Health Inspector - 6571, 6572, 6573, 6574, 6575, 6576, 6577, 6578, 6579

Public Health Inspector - 6571, 6572, 6573, 6574, 6575, 6576, 6577, 6578, 6579

New York State

Middletown, NY • On-site

$23.21/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 177 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 50 rated states

Job description

Duties Description Do you enjoy the outdoors and traveling to scenic locations in New York State. Do you have an interest in environmental health. Do you enjoy field work and working with a variety of different organizations.

Make your summer count by working as a seasonal Public Health Inspector for the New York State Department of Health's Center for Environmental Health (CEH). Seasonal Public Health Inspectors support the mission of CEH by performing environmental health inspection functions during New York State's summer season. Positions conduct field inspections of temporary residences such as campgrounds, hotels, motels, and lodging.

The Public Health Inspector will ensuring compliance with the New York State Sanitary Code and environmental health regulations through the inspection of pools, beaches, water supplies, and food service establishments. A Public Health Inspector role provides interested individuals with the ability to gain real world experience in the field of public health through on-the-job training, with the potential to be rehired every summer. Flexible opportunities begin in early May and extend through September 2026.

Minimum Qualifications One year of experience in environmental health protection, public health, or laboratory technology (medical, microbiological or environmental), AND (1) either 12 credit hours in biology, chemistry, geology, hydrology, and/or physics, OR (2) 6 credit hours in courses listed above AND 6 credits hours in applied sciences (environmental technology, sanitation technology, medical technology, public health, infection control or food science). Substitution: Additional college credit hours beyond those required to meet the minimum qualifications may be substituted for the required experience at the rate of 30 credit hours equaling one year. Candidates, a copy of your transcript indicating the courses you completed that meet the 12 qualifying credit hours listed above must be included.

The transcript should include course names, credit hours, and the name of the institution where your college credits were obtained. Failure to include this information may result in delay or disapproval of your application. Preferred Qualifications: The preferred candidate will be interested in exploring a career in public/environmental health; ability to work independently and as part of a team; ability to problem solve effectively; excellent organizational skills and attention to detail; strong interpersonal skills; excellent oral and written communication skills; experience with Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel) and other computer programs as needed.

Additional Comments Nine temporary, seasonal, full-time, non-competitive, appointment opportunities. Hours worked and schedule are flexible and dependent upon assignment. This position may require travel throughout New York State including overnights to areas not served by public transportation.

The NYS Department of Health is committed to making New York a safer, healthier, and more equitable place to live. Understanding health equity, social determinants of health and health disparities is critical to accomplish our goal of eliminating health disparities. For more information on the NYS Department of Health's Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Plan, please visit: https://health.ny.gov/commissioner/index.htm If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact by phone 518-486-1812 or email doh.sm.reasonable.accommodation@health.ny.gov to make a request

NYS Department of Health does not participate in E-Verify and does not sponsor visa applications. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.

What New York State employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply