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State Food Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Son

Food Inspector

North East, PA · On-site

$22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A State vehicle is provided; you can look forward to eliminating that commute to work. Ongoing ... Food Inspectors are required to pass a certified professional food safety credential examination ...

Son

Food Inspector

North East, PA · On-site

$22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A State vehicle is provided; you can look forward to eliminating that commute to work. Ongoing ... Food Inspectors are required to pass a certified professional food safety credential examination ...

New York State

NY · On-site

$53K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is seeking a permanent Food Inspector 1 or Trainee to conduct food safety inspections of food establishments to ensure sanitary, wholesome ...

New

New York State

NY · On-site

$53K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is seeking a permanent Food Inspector 1 or Trainee to conduct food safety inspections of food establishments to ensure sanitary, wholesome ...

New

New York State

NY · On-site

$53K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is seeking a permanent Food Inspector 1 or Trainee to conduct food safety inspections of food establishments to ensure sanitary, wholesome ...

New

The Pearl of the Shoals

Full-Time Cook

Muscle Shoals, AL · On-site

$17/hr

Food Service Management: * Makes regular inspections to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures including State food service standards. * Ensures proper storage of food and other ...

The Pearl of the Shoals

Full-Time Cook

Muscle Shoals, AL · On-site

$17/hr

Food Service Management: * Makes regular inspections to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures including State food service standards. * Ensures proper storage of food and other ...

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State Food Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do state food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for state food 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 is a state food inspector?

State food inspectors are government employees responsible for ensuring that food products within their state meet safety and quality standards. They conduct inspections of food processing plants, restaurants, grocery stores, and other food-related establishments to enforce local, state, and federal regulations. Their duties include checking for proper food handling, storage, cleanliness, and labeling, as well as investigating complaints and potential outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. State food inspectors play a crucial role in protecting public health by helping to prevent food contamination and ensuring consumer safety.

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

To thrive as a State Food Inspector, you need a solid background in food science, public health, or a related field, often supported by a degree and relevant certifications. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory testing equipment, and regulatory systems like HACCP is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and impartial judgment are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies are vital to ensure food safety, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public health.

What are some common challenges faced by state food inspectors during routine inspections?

State Food Inspectors often encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with diverse and evolving food safety regulations across different establishments. They may face resistance from business owners who are unfamiliar with or reluctant to implement safety protocols. Additionally, inspectors must stay up-to-date with the latest food safety laws and technologies, and often need to balance thorough inspections with tight schedules. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as inspectors regularly collaborate with facility staff to address violations and educate them on best practices.

What is the difference between State Food Inspector vs Food Safety Officer?

AspectState Food InspectorFood Safety Officer
Required CredentialsFood safety certification, degree in food technology or related fieldFood safety certification, degree in food technology or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment inspections, field visits, regulatory complianceInspection, enforcement, policy implementation in food industry
Employer & Industry UsageState government departments, food industry regulationCentral/state government agencies, food safety enforcement
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a State Food Inspector and a Food Safety Officer lies in their scope and jurisdiction. While both roles require similar qualifications and work in government food safety enforcement, State Food Inspectors primarily focus on conducting inspections and ensuring compliance at the state level. Food Safety Officers often have broader responsibilities, including policy implementation and public awareness. Both roles are essential for maintaining food safety standards within the industry.

How do I become a state food inspector?

To become a state food inspector, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field, along with relevant work experience. They must pass a state-specific exam and often obtain certification from a recognized food safety authority; strong attention to detail and knowledge of food safety regulations are essential. The job involves inspecting food processing facilities, ensuring compliance with health standards, and documenting violations.

How hard is it to be a State Food Inspector?

Becoming a State Food Inspector requires passing relevant exams, meeting educational requirements such as a degree in food technology or related fields, and often obtaining certification. The job involves inspecting food establishments, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and can require attention to detail and knowledge of food safety regulations, making it a challenging but structured career path.
More about State Food Inspector jobs

What cities are hiring for State Food Inspector jobs?

Cities with the most State Food Inspector job openings:

What states have the most State Food Inspector jobs?

States with the most job openings for State Food Inspector jobs include:

What job categories do people searching State Food Inspector jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for State Food Inspector jobs are:

State Food Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various State Food Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Food Inspector

Son

North East, PA • On-site

$22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

The work we do matters!

Hiring Agency:

Agriculture - Agency 18


Location:

Statewide, NE


Hiring Rate:

$22.503


Job Posting:

JR2026-00028637 Food Inspector (Open)


Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed):

08-24-2026


Job Description:

Do you have a passion for promoting public health and helping businesses succeed? Are you interested in a flexible schedule and healthy work/life balance? If so, we have a great opportunity for you! The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is searching for a teammate that will conduct food inspections within Southeast Nebraska! As a Food Inspector, you will be responsible for inspections of food establishments and food processors in compliance with the Nebraska Pure Food Act.
This position provides an opportunity to serve throughout Sarpy County. You can expect to have initial job training in Lincoln for 3-4 days, followed by field training to ensure you have what you need to succeed. A State vehicle is provided; you can look forward to eliminating that commute to work. Ongoing training and educational opportunities, as well as the State's tuition reimbursement program, will provide you the right environment for professional growth and development.
Food Inspectors are required to pass a certified professional food safety credential examination approved by the department within 36 months; time in role, training, and experience will prepare you to successfully become credentialed. You can start in this position as a Level 1 and we will provide you the necessary tools and certification opportunities propelling you to a Level 2 within as little as two years. If you begin as a Level 1, you can expect to receive $20.936/hour plus our excellent fringe benefits! If you begin as a Level 2, with the necessary food safety credential, you can expect to receive $22.503/hour.
Look at what we have to offer!
13 paid holidays
Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
Military leave
156% (that's not a typo!) state-matched retirement
Tuition reimbursement
Employee assistance program
79% employer paid health insurance plans
Dental and vision insurance plans
Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
Training and Development based on your career aspirations
Fun, inviting teammates
A safe and secure environment


Job Duties

  • Conduct inspections of food establishments for compliance with the Nebraska Pure Food Act.

  • License establishments according to the Nebraska Pure Food Act.

  • Take appropriate action (re-inspection, hearings, notices, and closure) if an eminent health threat to the public is identified.

  • Investigate consumer complaints, conduct plan reviews of food establishments, and complete inspection reports.

  • Participate in educational opportunities including training and conferences.

  • Other duties as assigned within the scope of the classification.

Requirements / Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Agriculture Food Sanitarian I: Any experience or education related to food industry or food safety and the ability to pass a certified professional food safety credential examination approved by the department within 36 months. Time in role, training, and experience will prepare individuals to successfully become credentialed.

Agriculture Food Sanitarian II: Some experience or education related to food industry or food related safety AND possess (and continue to maintain) a professional safety credential approved by the department.

Preferred Qualifications: The top candidate should live within the service area. 5 plus years of food industry experience and a science/biology background.

Other: This position requires travel. As such, the incumbent must be able to present a valid driver's license or another form of reliable transportation. Regular and reliable attendance is required.


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of: food industry; the principles and techniques of inspections; Nebraska Pure Food Act and Nebraska Food Code

Skill in: effective communication, time management, planning and organization, problem-solving, critical thinking.

Ability to: establish rapport with stakeholders; communicate with the public and businesses; interpret and apply policies, procedures, and standards; make decisions and seek solutions; work independently with little supervision; prioritize work in an efficient manner; compile and interpret inspection data; work in inclement temperatures and environments exposed to infectious diseases and toxic/hazardous substances.


If you're currently employed by the State of Nebraska, please don't apply through this external career site. Instead, log in to Workday and open the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page. You can access Workday anytime through the Link web page: https://link.nebraska.gov/


Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.
Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits

Equal Opportunity Statement

The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.

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