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State Food Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

Fresno, CA

$73K - $79K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

State Benefits Overview Position Summary: Responsible for managing the culinary team, and the ... Perform line checks to ensure proper quality and quantity of food * Inspect orders as they arrive ...

Executive Chef

Marina Del Rey, CA · On-site

$73K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

State Benefits Overview Position Summary: Responsible for managing the culinary team, and the ... Perform line checks to ensure proper quality and quantity of food * Inspect orders as they arrive ...

Executive Chef

Fresno, CA · On-site

$73K - $79K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... State Benefits Overview Position Summary: Responsible for managing the culinary team, and the ... food Inspect orders as they arrive to ensure completeness and quality Inspect all aspects of the ...

Executive Chef

Fresno, CA · On-site

$73K - $79K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

State Benefits Overview Position Summary: Responsible for managing the culinary team, and the ... Perform line checks to ensure proper quality and quantity of food * Inspect orders as they arrive ...

Food Safety Specialist

Anaheim, CA

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conducting Audits and Inspections * Implementing and Monitoring food safety * Training and ... Licenses/certificates as required by federal, state, and/or local regulations (covered by us)

Food Safety Specialist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conducting Audits and Inspections * Implementing and Monitoring food safety * Training and ... Licenses/certificates as required by federal, state, and/or local regulations (covered by us)

Food Safety Specialist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conducting Audits and Inspections * Implementing and Monitoring food safety * Training and ... Licenses/certificates as required by federal, state, and/or local regulations (covered by us)

Food Safety Specialist

San Jose, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conducting Audits and Inspections * Implementing and Monitoring food safety * Training and ... Licenses/certificates as required by federal, state, and/or local regulations (covered by us)

Lead Food Services

Cypress, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

... State Health Services (TXDSHS) or by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Certified ... Conducts safety and sanitation inspections to meet all standards of the hospital and regulatory ...

Expediter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18.42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Inspect all plates for cleanliness and correct plating per the recipe standard prior to serving ... Current Local/State Food Handler's Training Certifications as required Computer Skills : Basic ...

Showing results 41-60

State Food Inspector information

See California salary details

$11

$23

$34

How much do state food inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 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:

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.

$73K - $79K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Ruth's Chris Steak House rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 88 rated restaurants


Job description

$73000 per year - $79000 per year

Are you ready for the best job ever?

Ruth’s Chris defined The American Steak House in 1965 and continues to set the standard for premier dining and empowering workplace culture. Take this opportunity to join the best of the best and advance your hospitality career by joining a company committed to helping you grow along with us, and great benefits like:  

  • Health, Dental and vision insurance
  • Management Incentive Performance Plan
  • 401 (k) retirement plan with company match
  • Generous paid time off
  • Training and leadership development program
  • Dining discounts
  • State Benefits Overview


Position Summary: 

Responsible for managing the culinary team, and the highest commitment to food quality and safety standards, the Executive Chef is responsible for overseeing the direction of the kitchen’s daily activities in accordance to ensure guest satisfaction, profitability, and a positive, productive, and compliant work environment. The Executive Chef is solely responsible for the effective management and operation of the culinary team including event planning support, scheduling, food preparation and production, food cost control, compliance with food safety and sanitation policies, cleaning, kitchen safety, employee training and supervision. The Executive Chef must provide a high level of oversight, culinary proficiency, and operational/personnel support to ensure the smooth running all food outlets and events. Success is earning the loyalty of Our People and is measured in real growth in sales, profit, and market share, and is the result of living The Sizzle for our Team Members and Guests.

Essential Functions

  • Proactively recruit, hire and provide initial training, as well as on-going training, for all BOH personnel
  • Perform line checks to ensure proper quality and quantity of food
  • Inspect orders as they arrive to ensure completeness and quality
  • Inspect all aspects of the kitchen operation and storage to ensure they meet Ruth’s Chris high standards of excellence, safety, and sanitation.
  • Manage the financial results of the kitchen in order to drive profitability of the restaurant
  • Purchase inventory according to sales volumes, forecasted sales, shelf life and PARs
  • Proficient in all cooking positions and cooking skills
  • Ensure proper scheduling and staffing of team to maintain the efficiency, productivity, and profitability of the operation
  • Actively source talent to build a winning team
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule. Including evenings, holidays, and weekends


Minimum Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Work Environment

  • Formal business education or a restaurant management degree a plus
  • Demonstrate exceptional guest service mentality
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to resolve conflict and provide mentorship to hourly team members
  • Illustrate effective organization and time management skills
  • Successful completion of corporate training program required

What Ruth's Chris Steak House employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Ruth's Chris Steak House logo

About Ruth's Chris Steak House

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our steaks are cooked using a patented broiling method developed by our founder. They’re seasoned to perfection, and then served sizzling on 500-degree plates. Our chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff are among the best in the world. They’re trained to deliver steaks exactly the way Ruth wanted. We’ve combined the finest spirits, service, and steaks with a relaxed, friendly environment to create the best bar experience.

Industry

Food services and drinking places and restaurants

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Winter Park, FL, US