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State Food Inspector Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$19.75 - $22.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$20.50 - $23.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Buckner, KY · On-site

$18.95 - $21.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Shelbyville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.95 - $21.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.95 - $21.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.90 - $21.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Food Service Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.95 - $21.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... as needed. • Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards. • ... Required Qualifications • Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township ...

Showing results 21-40

State Food Inspector information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do state food inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for state food inspector in Kentucky is $19.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $20.14 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 Kentucky?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various State Food Inspector job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,219 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Food Service Manager

Thorntons

Louisville, KY • On-site

$19.75 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description:
The primary role of a Food Service Manager is to provide quality food and beverage products for our guests as
well as maintain proper rotation, inventory, and cleanliness within the food and beverage areas. The Food Service
Manager will also be responsible to achieve sales, unit, and profit goals for the food and beverage categories.
Essential Job Functions (RESPONSIBLE TO)
• Prepare food and dispensed beverage products for daily service prior to rush periods as outlined on store
PAR.
• Follow approved product sampling procedures to sample products as directed.
• Ensure food safety and sanitation compliance at all times
• Expertly manages food operation including shrink, gross profit, quality and supplies by maintaining excellent
food standards
• Accurately counts, stocks, orders inventory, and provides data to support store profitability; proactively
identifying ways to grow the business; very organized and able to follow established processes and
standards.
• Operate various pieces of foodservice and beverage equipment.
• Maintain clean and appealing workspace and service areas, empty trash receptacles as needed.
• Inspect and maintain equipment to cleanliness and operations standards.
• Implement and train program rollouts, product changes and product quality specifications (food service
standards).
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
Requirements:
Required Qualifications
• Food Handler Certifications - as required per state, city or township
Preferred Qualifications
• Education
~ High school diploma or equivalent G.E.D.
• Experience
~ Prior work experience in food service environment with supervisory duties.
• Knowledge/Skills
~ Ability to read and understand reports, records, and other business documents.
~ Working knowledge of product costs and profits to ensure maximum profitability.
~ Able to use product waste logs or similar company designed programs to establish and manage proper
par levels.
~ Proven ability to manage product inventory (rotation, ordering, and on hand)
~ Ability to set priorities, organize work and exercise sound judgment.
~ Ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment with frequent interruptions.
~ Food Handler Certification
~ Excellent guest service skills.
• Equipment/Special Expertise
~ Basic food and beverage heating/cooling/preparation kitchen equipment & tools
• Other Considerations
~ Must be available for early morning and late afternoon shifts.
* Thorntons LLC is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified candidates and employees pursuant to applicable law. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. If you require reasonable accommodation as part of the application process please contact applicationaccommodations@mythorntons.com 9 am - 5 pm EST M-F.
Some of our benefits include weekly pay, free dispensed beverage during your shift, a free meal per shift, medical, dental, vison, 401k (matching company contribution), vacation, sick leave, life insurance. For a full list of benefits and eligibility please visit https://www.exploreyourbenefits.com/retail.html.
Additional Info:
* Thorntons LLC is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer, and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified candidates and employees pursuant to applicable law. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. If you require reasonable accommodation as part of the application process please contact applicationaccommodations@mythorntons.com 9 am - 5 pm EST M-F.