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State Food Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Health Inspector

Pharr, TX · On-site

$40K/yr

... food safety. Collaboration with regional agencies and the Texas Department of State Health Services will be crucial for joint investigations. Additionally, you will maintain organized inspection ...

Health Inspector

Pharr, TX · On-site

$40K/yr

... food safety. Collaboration with regional agencies and the Texas Department of State Health Services will be crucial for joint investigations. Additionally, you will maintain organized inspection ...

To guarantee safe and sanitary food handling practices, inspect and clean food preparation ... Able to obtain a WA State Food Handlers Card * Previous experience in a restaurant environment of 1 ...

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State Food Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do state food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for state food inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, 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 cities are hiring for State Food Inspector jobs? Cities with the most State Food Inspector job openings:
What states have the most State Food Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for State Food Inspector jobs include:
Infographic showing various State Food Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% As Needed, and 40% Full Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Quality Inspector

Quality Inspector

Heinen's Grocery Store

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Heinen's rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 114 rated grocery stores


Job description

Company Overview

Established in 1929, Heinen’s is a leading, family-owned grocery retailer known for its premium-quality products and outstanding customer service. Now in its fourth generation of family leadership, Heinen’s operates 24 locations – 19 in the Cleveland, Ohio area and 5 in the Chicago, Illinois market – supported by two distribution warehouses, a food production facility, and a corporate office located in Warrensville Heights, Ohio.

Our culture is rooted in an associate-first philosophy, placing a strong emphasis on the well-being, development, and quality of life of every team member. We offer competitive compensation, professional development and leadership training programs, paid time off, and flexible scheduling designed to promote a healthy work-life balance.

Job Summary

Heinen’s Food Manufacturing Facility is seeking a detail-oriented and quality-driven Quality Inspector to support the organization’s commitment to product excellence and food safety standards. This role is responsible for performing inspections of incoming materials, in-process components, and finished products to ensure compliance with established quality specifications. The Quality Inspector will document inspection findings, identify non-conformities, and collaborate with department leadership to support corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct thorough inspections of incoming materials, in-process components, and finished products to verify compliance with quality standards and specifications.
  • Perform 100% inspections of designated items and execute random audit inspections according to production and finished product schedules.
  • Accurately document inspection results and maintain detailed records of quality metrics and findings.
  • Identify, report, and communicate defects, deviations, or non-conformities to department managers and leadership teams.
  • Support quality assurance initiatives by ensuring adherence to company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with production and leadership teams to address quality concerns and drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Previous experience in quality inspection or a related role, preferably within a manufacturing or food production environment.
  • Working knowledge of quality control methodologies, inspection techniques, and documentation practices.
  • Ability to accurately assess, describe, and document inspection findings.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to maintain accurate and detailed records.

Key Skills

  • Strong attention to detail
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Deductive reasoning and critical thinking abilities
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment


Heinen’s, Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.


9am-5pm Monday-Friday
Full-time, 40 hours per week.

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