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State Food Inspector Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Food City

Food Service Shift Leader

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $19/hr

Inspect and rotate product on a regular basis while maintaining close dated items on Electronic ... Follow and implement all policies and procedures including all local, state, and federal ...

Food City

Food Service Shift Leader

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$13 - $17.75/hr

Inspect and rotate product on a regular basis while maintaining close dated items on Electronic ... Follow and implement all policies and procedures including all local, state, and federal ...

Food City

Assistant Food Service Manager

Winchester, TN · On-site

$13 - $18/hr

Inspect and rotate product on a regular basis while maintaining close dated items on Electronic ... Follow and implement all policies and procedures including all local, state, and federal ...

Food City

Assistant Food Service Manager

Morristown, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $18.75/hr

Inspect and rotate product on a regular basis while maintaining close dated items on Electronic ... Follow and implement all policies and procedures including all local, state, and federal ...

Food City

Assistant Food Service Manager

Maryville, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $19/hr

Inspect and rotate product on a regular basis while maintaining close dated items on Electronic ... Follow and implement all policies and procedures including all local, state, and federal ...

Curated Events

Food Service Processor

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.50/hr

Inspect returned dish room equipment for damages, perform minor repairs, or tag damaged items for ... state, or local laws. Curated Events Nashville is a full-service event rental company based in ...

Curated Events

Food Service Processor

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.50/hr

Inspect returned dish room equipment for damages, perform minor repairs, or tag damaged items for ... state, or local laws. Curated Events Nashville is a full-service event rental company based in ...

Thorntons

Food Service Manager

Hermitage, TN · On-site

$19.50 - $22.50/hr

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

Thorntons

Food Service Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$19.50 - $22.50/hr

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

Thorntons

Food Service Manager

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

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

Thorntons

Food Service Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$19.50 - $22.50/hr

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

Thorntons

Food Service Manager

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$19.50 - $22.50/hr

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

Thorntons

Food Service Manager

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$19.50 - $22.50/hr

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

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All JobsState Food Inspector JobsState Food Inspector Jobs in Tennessee

State Food Inspector information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$21

$30

How much do state food inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for state food inspector in Tennessee is $21.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are state food inspectors?

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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a State Food Inspector, and why are they important?

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 are popular job titles related to State Food Inspector jobs in Tennessee? For State Food Inspector jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching State Food Inspector jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for State Food Inspector jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for State Food Inspector jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most State Food Inspector job openings:
State Food Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various State Food Inspector job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,907 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Food Service Shift Leader

Food Service Shift Leader

Food City

Morristown, TN • On-site

$13.75 - $19/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Food City rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 657 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 121 rated grocery stores

Job description

Job Summary: As a key member of the Food Service management team, the responsibilities of the Food Service Shift Leader include providing exceptional customer service, leading by example, driving sales by effectively merchandizing fresh product in the department while assisting the Food Service Manager by building a productive staff through team work and effective training.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!"
  • Lead by example and set the standard for customer service, associate relations, cleanliness, sanitation, professional appearance, and overall profitability
  • Maintain a positive attitude; create an atmosphere of friendliness and fun through flexibility and teamwork.
  • Generate a positive, friendly, and fun working environment with a customer first initiative by encouraging associates to greet and speak to customers, provide prompt, courteous, and efficient customer service.
  • Interact professionally with management team, associates, supervision, and customers
  • Assist the Food Service Manager in running all areas of the Food Service operations
  • Provide Food Service Department associates with training and development in required skills and areas of job responsibilities
  • Implement and enforce all marketing programs and merchandising plans including plan-o-grams
  • Assist in ordering all merchandise to achieve a minimum inventory consistent with good operations, while avoiding out-of-product conditions
  • Complete all department paperwork adhering to Model Store standards including department inventory
  • Inspect and rotate product on a regular basis while maintaining close dated items on Electronic Short Date List
  • Maintain a clean and safe department according to company standards utilizing Sanitation schedules and daily to-do lists
  • Follow and implement all policies and procedures including all local, state, and federal regulations as it pertains to the Food Service department
  • Communicate on a regular basis with the Store Manager, Food Service Manager, Department Managers, and all Food Service associates providing them with information or instruction
  • Assist the Food Service Manager in enforcing and maintaining the company Food Safety program
  • Constantly inspect and maintain the highest standards in product quality
  • Ensure production sheets are completed by all positions prior to shift end
  • Assist in covering scheduled breaks for other Food Service Associates
  • Ensure PA announcements are being conducted routinely per guidelines to promote sales
  • Ensure product freezer pulls are completed per pull sheet guidelines
  • Responsible for attending on-site work during scheduled shifts to adhere to company time and attendance policies

Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • 1-2 years' experience in Food Service Department operations
  • Must be able to resolve differences and diffuse difficult situations (customers and associates) through diplomatic means
  • Must be knowledgeable in various training methods
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and/or written instructions, perform routine and repetitive tasks, and have constant contact/interaction with various levels of individuals on a daily basis
  • Flexibility in work hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Must have excellent problem-solving skills
  • Must be able to lead by example to give Food City Customers their best shopping experience
  • Knowledge of Food City policies and procedures
  • Expertise of all job duties associates must perform in each area of responsibility
  • Ability to attend on-site work during scheduled shifts to adhere to company time and attendance policies

Benefits of working for Food City:
401(k) with company match, Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Weekly Pay Checks with Direct Deposit, Company paid Life and Disability Insurance, Medical Plan with wellness benefits, Dental Plan, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacations, Associate Offers, and so much more!
About Food City:
Food City is a privately held, family-owned company with a driving mission to 'run the best store in town.' Dedicated to giving back to the communities we serve, we encourage our associates to get involved with their local civic organizations. We consider our associates to be our greatest asset. Over 13% of the company is currently owned by our associates through our employee stock ownership plan, promoting tremendous pride in the services and products we provide. Whether your passion is baking, accounting, or trucking, Food City has a promising career opportunity for you. We offer flexible schedules to ensure our associates have ample time to spend with family and friends. If you're looking for a great career or the opportunity to try something different, consider becoming part of the Food City family.

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