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Meat Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Line Cook

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Job Summary Cook meats, fish, vegetables, soups and other hot food products as well as prepare and ... Inspect, clean, and maintain food preparation areas, such as equipment and work surfaces, or ...

Cook II

Arlington, VA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Job Summary Prepare and season by various methods large quantities of meat, poultry, fish ... inspections. * Maintain high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in the interior and exterior ...

Cook II

Arlington, VA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Job Summary Prepare and season by various methods large quantities of meat, poultry, fish ... inspections. * Maintain high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in the interior and exterior ...

Cook II

Arlington, VA

$16 - $21.50/hr

Job Summary Prepare and season by various methods large quantities of meat, poultry, fish ... inspections. * Maintain high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in the interior and exterior ...

Cook

Mouth Of Wilson, VA · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

Inspect and clean food preparation areas, such as equipment and work surfaces, or serving areas to ... Bake, roast, broil, and steam meats, fish, vegetables, and other foods. * Season, weigh, measure ...

Line Cook

Surry, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $28.50/hr

Line Cook Reports To Restaurant Manager & Kitchen Manager Job Summary Cook seafood, meats, fish ... o Inspect, clean and maintain food preparation areas, such as equipment and work surfaces or ...

Line Cook

Surry, VA · On-site

$16/hr

Line Cook Reports To Restaurant Manager & Kitchen Manager Job Summary Cook seafood, meats, fish ... o Inspect, clean and maintain food preparation areas, such as equipment and work surfaces or ...

Line Cook

Surry, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $28.50/hr

Line Cook Reports To Restaurant Manager & Kitchen Manager Job Summary Cook seafood, meats, fish ... o Inspect, clean and maintain food preparation areas, such as equipment and work surfaces or ...

Be Seen First

Conduct routine inspections of production areas to ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards. * Assist with internal audits, traceability exercises, and corrective action programs.

Cook

Virginia Beach, VA

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

Overview: The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or ... Complete opening duties: a) Set up the workstation with tools, equipment, and supplies. b) Inspect ...

Cook

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$12.25 - $16.25/hr

Overview: The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or ... Complete opening duties: a) Set up the workstation with tools, equipment, and supplies. b) Inspect ...

Line Chef full time days

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$20.73 - $25.40/hr

Job Duties * Prepares all food items for residents, guests, and personnel, including meats ... Makes daily inspection of kitchen and gives report to Chef. * Assists Chef with ordering food items ...

Cook

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Overview: The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or ... Complete opening duties: a) Set up the workstation with tools, equipment, and supplies. b) Inspect ...

Cook

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Overview: The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or ... Complete opening duties: a) Set up the workstation with tools, equipment, and supplies. b) Inspect ...

Cook

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Overview: The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or ... Complete opening duties: a) Set up the workstation with tools, equipment, and supplies. b) Inspect ...

Cook

Blacksburg, VA

$12.25 - $16.50/hr

Overview: The Cook will prepare, season, and cook dishes such as soups, meats, vegetables, or ... Complete opening duties: a) Set up the workstation with tools, equipment, and supplies. b) Inspect ...

Showing results 41-60

Meat Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$19

$22

$24

How much do meat inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for meat inspector in Virginia is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a meat inspector?

To become a meat inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in meat inspection or food safety. Many states require passing a written exam and gaining certification from agencies such as the USDA, which may also involve on-the-job training and periodic recertification.

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

To thrive as a Meat Inspector, you need a solid understanding of food safety regulations, animal anatomy, and quality control procedures, typically supported by relevant certifications or completion of government-approved training programs. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory testing equipment, and digital record-keeping systems is often required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work independently are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure that meat products are safe for consumption and comply with all regulatory standards.

Is it hard to become a meat inspector?

Becoming a meat inspector typically requires completing relevant education or training, such as a high school diploma or equivalent, and passing a certification exam. The process involves understanding food safety standards, inspection procedures, and sometimes gaining experience in meat processing environments, making it a specialized but attainable career path for those with the necessary skills and training.

What are the typical challenges faced by meat inspectors on the job?

Meat Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in cold or fast-paced processing environments, staying vigilant during repetitive inspections, and consistently applying complex food safety regulations. They may also need to handle difficult conversations with plant staff when identifying violations or unsafe practices. Despite these challenges, inspectors play a crucial role in protecting public health and often work alongside other quality assurance professionals. Regular training and a supportive team structure help overcome these challenges and promote professional growth in the field.

What are popular job titles related to Meat Inspector jobs in Virginia? For Meat Inspector jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Meat Inspector jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Meat Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Meat Inspector job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,296 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description:

Job Summary

Cook meats, fish, vegetables, soups and other hot food products as well as prepare and portion food products prior to cooking. Also perform other duties in the areas of food and final plate preparation including plating and garnishing of cooked items and preparing appropriate garnishes for all hot menu item plates. Follow all health department guidelines in regard to proper food handling, storage, cooling, etc. Prepare food items in a timely fashion.


Activities & Responsibilities

Primary

  • Promote, work, and act in a manner consistent with the mission of Smithfield Station: It is the mission of Smithfield Station and its associates to provide absolutely the most enjoyable eating and sleeping experience possible to our patrons through outstanding service, superb product and great personalities in a unique, comfortable setting…every day…RIGHT NOW!!
  • Take and record temperature of food and food storage areas such as refrigerators and steam tables
  • Inspect, clean, and maintain food preparation areas, such as equipment and work surfaces, or serving areas to ensure safe and sanitary food-handling practices
  • Ensure food is stored and cooked at correct temperature by regulating temperature of ovens, broilers, grills, fryers, roasters, and other kitchen equipment
  • Ensure freshness of food and ingredients by checking for quality, keeping track of old and new items, and rotating stock
  • Properly label all prepared food and discard after seven days
  • Know and consistently comply with the restaurant’s standard portion sizes, cooking methods, quality standards and kitchen rules, policies and procedures
  • Follow food specifications and bring any discrepencies to Manager’s attention
  • Responsible for the quality of products served - do not sacrifice quality for any reason
  • Stock and maintain sufficient levels of food products at line stations to support a smooth service period
  • Handle, store, and rotate all food products and supplies according to restaurant policies and procedures
  • Turn or stir foods to ensure even cooking
  • Maintain hot foods at proper temperature (above 140°F)
  • Season and cook food according to recipes
  • Bake, roast, broil, and steam meats, fish, vegetables, and other foods
  • Weigh, measure, and mix ingredients according to recipes, using various kitchen utensils and equipment
  • Portion, arrange, and garnish food, according to standard portion sizes and recipe specifications
  • Observe and test foods to determine if they have been cooked sufficiently, using methods such as tasting, smelling, or piercing them with utensils
  • Follow proper plate presentation and garnish set up for all dishes
  • Wash, peel, cut, and seed fruits and vegetables to prepare them for consumption
  • Carve and trim meats such as beef, veal, ham, pork, and lamb for hot or cold service, or for sandwiches
  • Assist in food prep assignments during off-peak periods as needed
  • Substitute for or assist other cooks during emergencies or rush periods
  • Close the kitchen following the closing checklist for kitchen stations and assist others in closing the kitchen
  • Check out with the Manager on duty at end of shift
  • Attend all scheduled employee meetings and offers suggestions for improvement
  • Coordinate with and assist fellow employees to meet guests’ needs and support the operation of the restaurant
  • Fill in for fellow employees where needed to ensure guest service standards and efficient operations

Supplemental

  • Consult with supervisory staff to plan menus and specials, taking into consideration factors such as costs and special event needs
  • Estimate expected food consumption, procure food from storage
  • Plan specials and coordinate with Management
  • Check party sheets and prep food accordingly


Tools & Technology

  • Commercial use:
  • blenders, grinders, slicers
  • broilers, convection ovens, deep fryers, griddles, grills, microwave ovens, ranges, steamers
  • cutlery (boning knives, chefs' knives, paring knives)
  • ovens (conveyor ovens, rotating rack ovens, salamander ovens, pizza ovens, smokers or smoke ovens)
  • Domestic knives (cimeter knives, filet knives, utility knives)
  • Food safety labeling systems
  • Slicing machinery



Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications

  • Two or more years of experience in kitchen preparation and cooking
  • At least 6 months experience in a similar capacity
  • Able to communicate effectively with managers and co-workers
  • Able to reach, bend, stoop and frequently lift up to 40 pounds
  • Able to work in a standing position for long periods of time (up to 9 hours)
  • Reliable transportation to and from work
  • Able to work shifts on evenings, weekends and holidays