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State Food Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

J&J Snack Foods

Line Inspector

Vernon, CA · On-site

$17.51/hr

As a leader and innovator in the snack food industry for over 50 years, J&J Snack Foods provides ... State and local laws that prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of race, color, age ...

idexcel

Mechanical Inspector

San Jose, CA

$20/hr

... food & commodities trading and federal organizations. Our teams of experienced recruiters directly ... state, or applicable local law. Mechanical Inspector 11/21/2016 - 9/22/2017 San Jose, CA 95131 ...

County of Sonoma, CA

Agricultural Inspector I

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$72K - $87K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Through education, outreach, inspections, and enforcement, the department administers state and ... The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) oversees the licensing requirements for ...

Banks Power

Quality Inspector

Azusa, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Food Truck Fridays * Employee Referral Program * Education Assistance Program * Friends & Family ... In addition to federal law requirements, Banks Power complies with applicable state and local laws ...

Live Oaks Wellness

Executive Chef

Novato, CA · On-site

$83K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ensure compliance with all state food safety and sanitation laws * Maintain a clean, organized, and inspection-ready kitchen * Manage daily workflow and resolve kitchen-related issues efficiently

Relevante

Production Manager

Fullerton, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Oversee results of internal food safety audits and participate in external inspections. * Partners ... Ensure that all Federal and State food legislation is maintained and updated. * Oversee and ...

Accurate Personnel LLC

QA Supervisor

San Bernardino, CA

$33.80/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

... state Food Code Regulations and maintaining Public Health Inspection Reports. * Reports: Kitchen QA Technicians, Sanitation Lead * Regular interaction with: Kitchen & Cheese Production Supervisors ...

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All JobsState Food Inspector JobsState Food Inspector Jobs in California

State Food Inspector information

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How much do state food inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for state food inspector in California is $23.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $24.95 per hour, 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.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for State Food Inspector jobs?

Cities in California with the most State Food Inspector job openings:

State Food Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various State Food Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,730 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Food Preparation & Assembly - Sack Lunches

3 Stonedeggs Inc

West Sacramento, CA • On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Temporary

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

We are seeking organized, high-energy employees to join our kitchen team. In this role, you will play a key part in high-volume, continuous assembly of pre-packed sack lunches for large-scale production. The ideal candidate thrives in a structured, fast-paced environment, pays close attention to detail, and excels at maintaining strict hygiene, portion accuracy, and output goals.


Key Responsibilities

  • Assembly Line Setup & Operation: Set up workstations with pre-portioned ingredients, packaging supplies, and labels according to daily production targets and assembly guidelines.
  • Food Packaging & Assembly: Efficiently build, wrap, and package items for sack lunches (sandwiches/wraps, sides, condiments) following precise portion control and quality standards.
  • Ingredient Preparation: Assist with basic ingredient portioning, sorting, and staging prior to assembly shifts.
  • Quality Assurance & Safety: Inspect food components and final packaged meals for accuracy, fresh presentation, and secure packaging. Adhere strictly to state food safety guidelines, sanitation protocols, and temperature tracking.
  • Inventory & Staging: Pack finished lunches into bulk transport crates/coolers, track completed units against daily quotas, and prepare items for outbound delivery.
  • Cleanliness & Sanitation: Maintain a clean, sanitized, and organized workspace throughout the shift, completing end-of-day kitchen breakdown and cleaning tasks.

Qualifications & Physical Requirements

  • Experience: Prior experience in high-volume food prep, commercial kitchen assembly, catering logistics, or production line environments preferred (will train reliable candidates).
  • Speed & Precision: Ability to maintain a fast, efficient pace without sacrificing quality, accuracy, or cleanliness.
  • Physical Demands:
    • Ability to stand and work on your feet for the duration of the shift (up to 8 hours).
    • Ability to lift, push, and move boxes/crates weighing up to 30–40 lbs.
    • Precise hand dexterity for continuous repetitive tasks (wrapping, sealing, packing).
  • Certifications: Valid Food Handler Certificate (or willing to obtain upon hire) preferred.
  • Dependability: Strong work ethic, punctual, and comfortable working in a team environment to hit daily production deadlines.

Company Description

We have been in the business of feeding firefighters for over 25 years. Our job is to provide quality food to state and federal firefighters and give them the support they need to fight the many fires in our area.