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Restaurant Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

National Evermore Services

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Restaurant Food Safety Inspector

Detroit, MI · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Former Health Inspectors or 3rd Party Food Safety Auditors * Multi-Unit Restaurant Managers * Chefs/Culinary Specialists Additional Qualifications Include: * Certified Food Safety Pro: Serve-Safe ...

National Evermore Services

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Restaurant Food Safety Inspector

Boise, ID · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Former Health Inspectors or 3rd Party Food Safety Auditors * Multi-Unit Restaurant Managers * Chefs/Culinary Specialists Additional Qualifications Include: * Certified Food Safety Pro: Serve-Safe ...

Cheeburger Cheeburger

Restaurant Manager

Sanibel, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inspect areas/rooms for cleanliness, working condition and proper equipment set up. * Assign side work to servers in accordance with banquet event orders and restaurants. * Inspect table set-ups ...

National Evermore Services

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Restaurant Food Safety Inspector

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Former Health Inspectors or 3rd Party Food Safety Auditors * Multi-Unit Restaurant Managers * Chefs/Culinary Specialists Additional Qualifications Include: * Certified Food Safety Pro: Serve-Safe ...

Denny's

Restaurant Manager (Unit Manager)

Nashua, NH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... • Conduct restaurant inspections and operational walk-throughs • Manage ordering, inventory counts, and vendor deliveries • Complete administrative duties including audits, employee ...

Denny's

Restaurant Manager (Unit Manager)

Sanford, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... • Conduct restaurant inspections and operational walk-throughs • Manage ordering, inventory counts, and vendor deliveries • Complete administrative duties including audits, employee ...

Denny's

Restaurant Manager (Unit Manager)

Sun City Center, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... • Conduct restaurant inspections and operational walk-throughs • Manage ordering, inventory counts, and vendor deliveries • Complete administrative duties including audits, employee ...

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All JobsRestaurant Inspector Jobs

Restaurant Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do restaurant inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a restaurant inspector?

To thrive as a Restaurant Inspector, you need a solid understanding of food safety regulations, public health standards, and inspection procedures, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification in environmental health or a related field. Familiarity with inspection reporting software, handheld data collection devices, and state or local compliance databases is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and impartial judgment are vital soft skills for interacting with restaurant staff and ensuring fair assessments. These skills and qualifications are crucial to uphold public health, enforce safety standards, and maintain trust in food service establishments.

Is food inspection a stressful job?

Food inspection is a demanding role that requires attention to detail, adherence to health regulations, and the ability to handle conflicts with restaurant staff. Inspectors often work under time constraints and may encounter challenging situations, which can contribute to stress. However, proper training and experience can help manage job-related pressures effectively.

How do you become a restaurant inspector?

To become a restaurant inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some states require postsecondary education in food safety, public health, or a related field. Most inspectors are employed by government health departments and may need to pass written exams and background checks; relevant certifications in food safety or sanitation are often preferred. Experience in food service or public health can also be beneficial for qualifying for inspection roles.

What is the difference between Restaurant Inspector vs Food Safety Auditor?

AspectRestaurant InspectorFood Safety Auditor
CertificationsHealth and safety certifications, food safety trainingFood safety certifications, audit training
Work EnvironmentInspecting restaurants on-siteReviewing food safety processes remotely or on-site
Employer & Industry UsageLocal health departments, government agenciesPrivate companies, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding restaurant health inspectionsEvaluating food safety compliance audits

Both roles focus on food safety but differ in scope and setting. Restaurant Inspectors primarily conduct on-site health inspections of restaurants to ensure compliance with safety standards. Food Safety Auditors often perform comprehensive evaluations of food safety systems, sometimes remotely, for various clients. While overlapping in certifications and industry usage, their work environments and specific responsibilities vary.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by restaurant inspectors during site visits?

Restaurant inspectors often encounter challenges such as navigating busy kitchen environments while minimizing disruption, addressing language barriers with staff, and ensuring compliance with health codes in a wide range of establishments. Inspectors must also handle sensitive conversations professionally when violations are found, balancing regulatory enforcement with educational guidance. Staying up-to-date with evolving health regulations and managing a busy inspection schedule are also key aspects of the role.

What is a restaurant inspector?

Restaurant inspectors are public health professionals who evaluate food service establishments to ensure they comply with local, state, and federal health and safety regulations. Their job involves inspecting kitchens, storage areas, and dining spaces for cleanliness, proper food handling, and safe equipment operation. By identifying violations and educating staff, they help prevent foodborne illnesses and maintain public health standards. Restaurant inspectors may work for city, county, or state health departments and often conduct both routine and surprise inspections.
More about Restaurant Inspector jobs

What cities are hiring for Restaurant Inspector jobs?

Cities with the most Restaurant Inspector job openings:

What states have the most Restaurant Inspector jobs?

States with the most job openings for Restaurant Inspector jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Restaurant Inspector jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Restaurant Inspector jobs are:

Restaurant Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Restaurant Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Food Safety Inspector

Strikeforce Staffing

New York, NY

$50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Food Safety Inspector
Employer: Strike Force Staffing (SFS)
Compensation: $50 per hour
Location: Multiple Locations / Regional
Employment Type: Full-Time / Part-Time / Contract (as applicable)
Job Summary
The Food Safety Inspector is responsible for conducting health and safety inspections of food service establishments to ensure compliance with applicable state and local health department regulations. This role focuses on identifying food safety risks, documenting violations, and supporting restaurant operators in achieving and maintaining compliance with food safety standards and inspection requirements.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct on-site health and sanitation inspections of restaurants, cafés, and food service establishments in accordance with state and local food safety regulations
  • Evaluate food handling, storage, preparation, and temperature control practices
  • Inspect facilities for cleanliness, pest control, waste management, and equipment maintenance
  • Assess employee hygiene practices and food safety procedures
  • Identify violations, document findings, and prepare detailed inspection and compliance reports
  • Provide corrective action recommendations and guidance to management
  • Educate restaurant staff on food safety best practices and regulatory expectations
  • Conduct follow-up inspections to verify corrective actions and ongoing compliance
  • Stay current on state and local health codes, food safety regulations, and inspection criteria
  • Maintain accurate inspection records and documentation
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree in public health, environmental health, food safety, or a related field preferred
  • Prior experience in restaurant inspections, food safety audits, regulatory compliance, or quality assurance preferred
  • Knowledge of state and local food codes and inspection processes
  • Food safety certification (e.g., ServSafe, Food Protection Certificate, or equivalent) required or ability to obtain
  • Strong attention to detail and observational skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work professionally with restaurant owners, managers, and staff
  • Ability to travel to multiple locations as required
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and climb stairs for extended periods
  • Ability to work in kitchen environments with varying temperatures
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs as needed
Preferred Skills
  • Experience using inspection reporting software or mobile audit tools
  • Multilingual abilities a plus
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Objective, professional, and solution-oriented approach
Work Environment
  • On-site inspections in restaurants and commercial kitchens
  • Exposure to food preparation areas, cleaning chemicals, and variable environmental conditions
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive compensation based on experience
  • Travel or mileage reimbursement (if applicable)
  • Training and continuing education opportunities