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Produce Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Produce 3rd

Manteca, CA

$17.25 - $24/hr

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Produce 2nd

Stockton, CA

$19.25 - $24/hr

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Produce 2nd

Stockton, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $24/hr

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Manager Produce

Stockton, CA

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Manager Produce

Stockton, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Manager Produce

Sacramento, CA

$20 - $25/hr

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Manager Produce

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Manager Produce

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $24/hr

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

Manager Produce

Paso Robles, CA

$19.25 - $24/hr

Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality. * Follow department sanitary ...

PRODUCE/GM CLERK

La Crescenta, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Review/inspect products for quality and freshness and take appropriate action with those items. * Recommend produce items to customers to ensure they get the products they want and need. * Regularly ...

DC Produce Manager

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$72K - $78K/yr

DC Produce Manager Summary: The Warehouse Produce Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily ... inspections. * Lead and develop warehouse staff; manage scheduling; promote safety and ...

Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate inspection results. * Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and electronic quality management systems. * Excellent written ...

Showing results 21-40

Produce Inspector information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$54.2K

$97.7K

How much do produce inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for produce inspector in California is $54,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $62,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a produce inspector?

Produce inspectors are professionals responsible for examining fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products to ensure they meet specific quality and safety standards. They check for ripeness, damage, contamination, and adherence to government or industry regulations. Produce inspectors often work in packing houses, distribution centers, or at points of entry to verify that products are safe for consumption and suitable for sale. Their work helps protect consumers and supports the integrity of the food supply chain.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a produce inspector?

To thrive as a Produce Inspector, you need a thorough understanding of food safety standards, agricultural products, and inspection procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with inspection tools, quality control systems, and sometimes traceability software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure that produce meets safety and quality standards, protecting consumers and maintaining food industry compliance.

What challenges do produce inspectors face during peak harvest seasons?

During peak harvest seasons, Produce Inspectors often face the challenge of managing high volumes of incoming produce within tight timeframes. This requires strong organizational skills and the ability to quickly assess quality without sacrificing accuracy. Additionally, inspectors must coordinate closely with growers, packers, and logistics teams to ensure that only produce meeting safety and quality standards is shipped. Adaptability and effective communication are essential to handle fluctuating workloads and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Produce Inspector vs Food Quality Assurance Technician?

Produce InspectorFood Quality Assurance Technician
Focuses on inspecting fresh produce for quality, ripeness, and safety at farms, markets, or processing facilities.Ensures overall food product quality, safety, and compliance throughout the production process, including packaging and labeling.

Both roles require knowledge of food safety standards and may hold certifications like HACCP. Produce Inspectors typically work in agricultural or retail environments, while Food Quality Assurance Technicians work across manufacturing and processing facilities. The roles overlap in quality standards but differ in scope and focus, with Produce Inspectors specializing in fresh produce inspection and Food QA Technicians overseeing broader food safety protocols.

How do I become a produce inspector?

To become a produce inspector, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience in agriculture, food safety, or quality control. Some employers prefer candidates with certifications such as the Produce Inspection Certification or training in food safety standards like HACCP. On-the-job training is common, and inspectors often work in environments such as farms, warehouses, or distribution centers, using tools like inspection scales and quality assessment checklists.

What are popular job titles related to Produce Inspector jobs in California?

For Produce Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Produce Inspector jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Produce Inspector jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Produce Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,220 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

$17.25 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Food 4 Less rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 123 rated grocery stores


Job description

PAQ, Inc. is committed to building a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work. We believe diverse perspectives and experiences strengthen our organization and drive better outcomes for our customers and communities.

The Produce 3rd supports the Produce Department management by assisting with daily operations, supervising staff, and ensuring high standards of quality and service are maintained.

Essential Functions of the Position:

  • Assist with receiving products, pricing, and stocking procedures to ensure accuracy, product quality, and proper rotation.
  • Supervise and train Produce Clerks and Produce 4th.
  • Assist in ensuring refrigerated cases and display shelves are properly stocked and faced at all times according to product movement, tag allocation, and department standards to ensure maximum product sales and quality.
  • Ensure all products are correctly trimmed and attractively presented, with pre-packed items providing adequate allowances for tare weights or shrinkage.
  • Conduct regularly scheduled inspections of all produce products for freshness and visual appeal, culling products to maintain an image of freshness and quality.
  • Follow department sanitary procedures and standards, including assisting in maintaining department sweep logs.
  • Alert department and store management of any maintenance, refrigeration, equipment malfunctions or concerns.
  • Perform Produce Clerk and Produce 4th or other duties as assigned.

Knowledge:

  • Comprehensive understanding of produce products and department operations.
  • Familiarity with retail stocking procedures and inventory management.
  • Knowledge of health and safety regulations related to food handling.

Skills:

  • Strong leadership, supervisory, and training skills.
  • Excellent customer service.
  • Proficient in inventory management.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Effective verbal communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.

Abilities:

  • Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in stocking and labeling.
  • Capability to adjust to changing situations, handle multiple demands, and work with diverse personalities.
  • Aptitude for making informed decisions quickly, often in high-pressure situations.
  • A genuine desire to meet and exceed customer expectations, creating a positive shopping experience.
  • Ability to perform physical tasks, including stocking, lifting boxes, and standing for extended periods.

Physical Requirements:

  • Stand and walk for extended periods, typically 8-hour shifts.
  • Lift and carry items up to 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
  • Perform repetitive motions such as reaching, bending, stooping, squatting, and handling products.
  • Ability to perform tasks that require fine motor skills in handling small objects.
  • Maintain clear communication with customers and team members.
  • Move quickly and efficiently to assist customers and manage workload.
  • Maintain physical stamina to work in a fast-paced environment.

Work Conditions:

  • Work Hours: Vary, with availability required on weekends, evenings, and holidays; typically, 8-hour shifts for full-time employees.
  • Environment: Indoor, climate-controlled, with adequate lighting and ventilation. Relatively damp or humid conditions, including wet or slippery floor surfaces.
  • Primary Work Stations: Work within the grocery store environments, which include various sections such as the sales floor, backrooms, and refrigerated storage areas.
  • Dress Code: Professional and presentable attire as determined by store management, including a name tag, company-issued shirts, hats, jackets, or personal shirts that are black, burgundy, or blue, in good repair, and not faded.
  • Exposure: May be exposed to moving mechanical parts and cleaning chemicals.
  • Noise Level: Usually low to moderate, with occasional loud periods from customers, store announcements, and equipment.
  • Interaction: Constant interaction with customers and team members in a fast-paced retail environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience: Over five years of Produce experience is required. Supervisory experience is a plus.

Company Employment Policies:

  • PAQ, Inc is an "At-Will" employer.
  • PAQ, Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Job Title: Produce 3rd

Location: PAQ, Inc, Store Location, On-Site

Reports To: Manager, Produce

Employee Type: Regular, Full-Time

Exemption Type: Non-Exempt


Pay Range:

$17.25 - $24.00

Equal Employment Opportunity

PAQ, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.


Reasonable Accommodation Statement

PAQ, Inc. is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants throughout the hiring process. If you need an accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please let us know.


Work Authorization

All employment offers are contingent upon verification of authorization to work in the United States in compliance with applicable federal laws.


Pay Transparency (California)

The base pay range for this position is listed above. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as qualifications, experience, internal equity, and business need.


Fair Chance Statement (California)

We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act and applicable local ordinances.


Applicant Privacy Notice

To learn more about how we collect, use, and retain applicant personal information, please review our Applicant Privacy Notice at: https://www.paqinc.org/privacyPolicy


EmploymentAtWill

Employment with PAQ, Inc. is at will. Either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.


Duties Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Responsibilities may change or be reassigned at any time based on business needs.


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