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Restaurant Inspector Jobs in Southfield, MI (NOW HIRING)

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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 ...

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Restaurant Inspector information

See Southfield, MI salary details

$22.5K

$50.4K

$90.8K

How much do restaurant inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for restaurant inspector in Southfield, MI is $50,399.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,300.00 and $58,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

What cities near Southfield, MI are hiring for Restaurant Inspector jobs?

Cities near Southfield, MI with the most Restaurant Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Restaurant Inspector job openings in Southfield, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $50,399 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Restaurant Food Safety Inspector

National Evermore Services

Detroit, MI • On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Contractor

Posted 20 days ago

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Job description

Job Summary:

This part-time contracted opportunity is only open to applicants residing in the Detroit, Novi, Troy, MI area. A current residence is required to be considered.

Are you ready to make a real impact on food safety? As a Restaurant/Grocery Store Food Safety Field Specialist, you’ll be the ultimate food safety champion, ensuring that top-notch standards are met at every turn. This is more than just a part-time job – it’s a thrilling opportunity to safeguard what matters most: the health and well-being of everyone who enjoys the food we help protect.

Your expertise will play a vital role in conducting dynamic audits, leading hands-on inspections, and delivering engaging training. If you're passionate about food safety, have a solid understanding of industry regulations, and thrive in restaurant or grocery store environments, this is your chance to either (a) take your career to the next level or (b)make part-time money in your core competency!

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead with Impact: Conduct regular food safety audits and inspections across multiple locations, ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely.
  • Master Regulations: Stay ahead of the game by keeping up with local, state, and federal food safety guidelines to ensure all operations are compliant.
  • Identify & Innovate: Spot potential risks and propose creative solutions to keep everything safe, secure, and up to industry standards.
  • Solve Problems: Investigate food safety issues, identify root causes, and develop practical, efficient solutions to get everything back on track.
  • Document with Precision: Maintain accurate, detailed records and prepare clear, actionable reports to track progress and highlight key findings.
  • Collaborate & Elevate: Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure food safety standards are seamlessly integrated and upheld across all locations.

We are looking for people with the following experience:

  1. Former Health Inspectors or 3rd Party Food Safety Auditors
  2. Multi-Unit Restaurant Managers
  3. Chefs/Culinary Specialists

Additional Qualifications Include:

  • Certified Food Safety Pro: Serve-Safe certification equivalence and/or CP-FS Certification is a must! Don’t have it yet? No worries—you’ll be able to earn it within your first 12 months
  • Sharp Communication & Problem-Solving Skills: We’re looking for someone who excels at communicating, analyzing situations, and crafting innovative solutions to complex challenges
  • A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are a must
  • Hands-On Experience: We love candidates with practical experience in food safety, quality assurance, or similar roles—if you’ve been in the field, you’re ahead of the game!
  • Master of Food Safety Standards: Your knowledge of food safety regulations like Food Code or Brand Standards is a must.
  • Eye for Detail: Your keen attention to detail will be crucial in identifying and resolving issues before they become problems
  • Excellent Interpersonal Skills: Whether collaborating with the team or liaising with external partners, you’re a natural when it comes to communication and relationship-building.
  • Spanish Speaking is a PLUS

Company Description

Evermore works with privately owned and publicly owned restaurant brands to help them operate safer, stronger, and more consistent food programs. We support both local operators and national brands, providing operational insight, documentation support, and practical guidance that fits how restaurants actually work day-to-day. Our focus is helping brands protect their reputation, stay organized, and scale with confidence as they grow.

There is amazing opportunity for full time work in the near future.