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Restaurant Inspector Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Restaurant Shift Lead (Hardees)

Holstein, IA ยท On-site

$12 - $15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conduct regular inspections of the restaurant to ensure cleanliness, organization, and adherence to brand standards. * Team Development: * Assist in training new employees and developing existing ...

Restaurant Shift Lead (Hardees)

Holstein, IA

$12 - $15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conduct regular inspections of the restaurant to ensure cleanliness, organization, and adherence to brand standards. * Team Development: * Assist in training new employees and developing existing ...

Restaurant Shift Lead (Hardees)

Holstein, IA ยท On-site

$12 - $15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conduct regular inspections of the restaurant to ensure cleanliness, organization, and adherence to brand standards. * Team Development: * Assist in training new employees and developing existing ...

... inspections * Places and receives inventory truck orders * Maintains and regularly monitors a list of all restaurant assets * Ensures preventative maintenance of restaurant facility and equipment is ...

... inspections * Places and receives inventory truck orders * Maintains and regularly monitors a list of all restaurant assets * Ensures preventative maintenance of restaurant facility and equipment is ...

Assistant Manager

Sioux City, IA ยท On-site

$17 - $19/hr

... inspections * Places and receives inventory truck orders * Maintains and regularly monitors a list of all restaurant assets * Ensures preventative maintenance of restaurant facility and equipment is ...

Assistant Manager

Sioux City, IA ยท On-site

$17 - $19/hr

... inspections * Places and receives inventory truck orders * Maintains and regularly monitors a list of all restaurant assets * Ensures preventative maintenance of restaurant facility and equipment is ...

Assistant Manager

Sioux City, IA ยท On-site

$17 - $19/hr

... inspections * Places and receives inventory truck orders * Maintains and regularly monitors a list of all restaurant assets * Ensures preventative maintenance of restaurant facility and equipment is ...

Showing results 41-60

Restaurant Inspector information

See Iowa salary details

$23K

$51.6K

$93K

How much do restaurant inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for restaurant inspector in Iowa is $51,602.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,200.00 and $59,600.00 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.

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

The top searched job categories for Restaurant Inspector jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Restaurant Inspector job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,602 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Restaurant Shift Lead (Hardees)

LV Petroleum

Holstein, IA โ€ข On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

WALK-INS: Held weekdays from 11am - 4pm within the Hardee's at our Travel Center located at 2010 Indorf Ave, Holstein, IA.

At LV Petroleum, we are seeking a Shift Lead to oversee daily operations of the Hardee’s restaurant, ensuring exceptional customer service, managing staff, and contributing to the growth and profitability of the business. This position works closely with the General Manager to execute business goals, uphold brand standards, and lead the team to success.

Key Responsibilities:
  1. Operations Management:
    • Assist in managing daily operations of the restaurant, including food preparation, service delivery, inventory control, and equipment maintenance.
    • Ensure compliance with health, safety, and food quality standards.
    • Oversee the preparation and execution of food according to company standards and specifications.
  2. Staff Management:
    • Supervise and train staff, including hiring, scheduling, and conducting performance evaluations.
    • Provide leadership and motivation to employees, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
    • Address and resolve employee issues, ensuring team cohesion and customer satisfaction.
  3. Customer Service:
    • Ensure that customers receive excellent service by maintaining high standards of cleanliness, food quality, and service speed.
    • Handle customer complaints and ensure they are resolved in a timely and professional manner.
  4. Financial Responsibilities:
    • Assist in managing the restaurant's budget, including labor costs, food costs, and supplies.
    • Ensure the restaurant meets sales goals and follows cost-control measures.
    • Help in creating and maintaining daily and weekly reports for financial performance.
  5. Compliance and Standards:
    • Maintain compliance with all corporate policies, local, state, and federal laws, including food safety and sanitation standards.
    • Conduct regular inspections of the restaurant to ensure cleanliness, organization, and adherence to brand standards.
  6. Team Development:
    • Assist in training new employees and developing existing team members for growth opportunities within the company.
    • Support ongoing training and development programs for staff to improve job performance and customer service skills.
  7. Marketing & Promotions:
    • Assist with local marketing efforts, including promotional events and campaigns.
    • Help implement company-sponsored promotions and ensure they are executed effectively.

Requirements

Qualifications:
  • Experience: Previous experience in restaurant management or as a supervisor in a fast-paced environment is preferred.
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent; a degree in hospitality or business management is a plus.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for long periods and perform tasks that require physical movement (e.g., lifting, walking).
Working Conditions:
  • Must be flexible to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
  • May require standing, walking, and lifting for extended periods.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Weekly Pay
  • Growth Opportunities