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State Food Inspector Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Ensure ongoing compliance with all applicable federal, state, local, and customer food safety and regulatory requirements. * Lead regulatory inspections, customer audits, and third-party food safety ...

Ensure ongoing compliance with all applicable federal, state, local, and customer food safety and regulatory requirements. * Lead regulatory inspections, customer audits, and third-party food safety ...

New

Food Service Associate

West Plains, MO · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Understands and complies with County/State/Federal health codes to ensure the health and safety of ... Inspect food items and equipment daily. * Maintain menu system nutritional records and store on ...

Food Service Shift Lead

Clinton, MO · On-site

$12.50 - $17.25/hr

... and timely inspection of products for correct time and temperatures, cleanliness, rotation ... Teamwork - Work as a team to adhere to all local, state and federal regulations concerning all ...

Food Service Shift Lead

Moberly, MO · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

... and timely inspection of products for correct time and temperatures, cleanliness, rotation ... Teamwork - Work as a team to adhere to all local, state and federal regulations concerning all ...

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State Food Inspector information

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 Missouri?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various State Food Inspector job openings in Missouri as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Manager of Quality Assurance

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Operation Food Search
Non-Profits • 11 - 50 employees

$75K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Manager of Quality Assurance
Operation Food Search (OFS) is seeking an experienced and collaborative Manager of Quality Assurance to lead and strengthen our food safety, quality assurance, inventory integrity, and continuous improvement efforts. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape a growing function that directly supports our mission.
Our Mission is to heal hunger with innovative and collaborative solutions that provide food today and help create a hunger-free tomorrow.
Our Vision is a region where everyone has equitable access to the food they need to lead healthy
About the Role:
Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this leadership role at Operation Food Search (OFS) is responsible for food safety controls, policies, procedures, and continuous improvement initiatives that ensure the neighbors we serve receive the highest quality food OFS can provide. This is accomplished through rigorous food safety standards, inspections, inventory controls, process evaluation, and ongoing operational improvements that strengthen quality, consistency, efficiency, and compliance.
Salary: $75,000- $87,000
What You'll Do
  • Lead food safety and quality assurance programs.
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, food safety standards, and organizational policies.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives that improve processes, reduce risk, and enhance operational effectiveness.
  • Partner with operations leaders to identify root causes of quality issues and implement corrective actions.
  • Develop and monitor quality metrics, trends, and reporting.
  • Support inventory integrity and process controls.
  • Train, coach, and develop team members on quality and food safety expectations.
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.

Ideal Candidate: You are a collaborative, hands-on leader who thrives in a mission-driven environment. You bring strong knowledge of food safety and quality systems while also seeing opportunities to improve processes, solve problems, and build sustainable solutions. You have the ability to:
  • Influence and collaborate across departments.
  • Analyze issues and identify practical solutions.
  • Lead change and continuous improvement efforts.
  • Balance strategic thinking with operational execution.
  • Build trust and accountability within teams.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Safety and Compliance
  • Inventory Control Team Supervision
  • Food Inspection and Sorting
  • Warehouse Management System WMS (Primarius P2)
  • Training
  • Auditing
  • Traceability and Recalls
  • Continuous Improvement and Process Excellence

Why Join OFS? For 45 years, Operation Food Search has worked to build a hunger-free tomorrow. As Manager of Quality Assurance, you'll help ensure the quality and safety of food that reaches thousands of individuals and families throughout the region. You'll join a dedicated team that values collaboration, innovation, respect, accountability, and mission impact.
Ready to make a difference? Join us in building a hunger-free tomorrow. Learn more about Operation Food Search at www.operationfoodsearch.org
This is an on-site position located in St. Louis County.
Requirements
Experience:
  • Leadership: 5+ years supervising high functioning teams with integrity and compassion.
  • Experience: 3 to 5 years of experience in food safety, quality control, or warehouse food operations.
  • Required Certifications: Current HACCP certification and ServSafe Manager certification (or state equivalent).

Qualifications
  • Demonstrated ability to Communicate effectively across all levels of the organization, develop strong working relationships, and support a culture of continuous improvement in support of Operation Food Search's mission.
  • Experience leading quality assurance, food safety, compliance, or operational improvement programs.
  • Knowledge of food safety regulations, quality systems, and warehouse/distribution operations.
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
  • Experience leading teams and driving organizational improvements.
  • Bachelor's degree is preferred in Food Science, Public Health, Nutrition or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Strong knowledge of foodborne illnesses, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to lead training for diverse groups of volunteers and staff.

We offer competitive benefits and opportunities for professional development as we work together to serve our neighbors with integrity and excellence.
Benefits - FT Positions
  • Medical, dental and vision coverage
  • HRA and FSA
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Vacation and sick time, paid holidays
  • Short and long-term disability insurance
  • Company paid term life and AD&D insurance
  • Voluntary employee paid term life and AD&D insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Wellness support
  • Potential for student loan forgiveness, if qualified

Salary Description
$75,000- $87,000