1

Trainee Meat Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY · On-site

$53K - $85K/yr

The Food Inspector 1 or Trainee will prevent fraud, adulteration and misrepresentation in the ... Meat Inspector, Quality Control Technician for a food processing plant or food warehouse, or ...

New

NY · On-site

$53K - $85K/yr

The Food Inspector 1 or Trainee will prevent fraud, adulteration and misrepresentation in the ... Meat Inspector, Quality Control Technician for a food processing plant or food warehouse, or ...

New

NY · On-site

$53K - $85K/yr

The Food Inspector 1 or Trainee will prevent fraud, adulteration and misrepresentation in the ... Meat Inspector, Quality Control Technician for a food processing plant or food warehouse, or ...

New

Production Butcher / Meat Cutter

Burlington, WA · On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

Candidates with limited cutting experience may be considered for a trainee or production-support ... · Inspect product for quality and communicate issues or concerns to the appropriate lead or ...

PLUMBING INSPECTOR

Westchester, IL · Hybrid

$6.7K - $9.5K/mo

RC029 Paraprofessional Investigatory & Law Enforcement Employees, Meat and Poultry Inspectors, and Meat and Poultry Inspector Trainees, IFPE. The RC-033 bargaining unit merged into RC-029 bargaining ...

Can you cut it with the industry leaders in meat portioning and cooking? We're always looking for ... Knowledgeable of USDA role and contact of onsite FSIS Inspector * USDA (MT) Sampling * Pre ...

Can you cut it with the industry leaders in meat portioning and cooking? We're always looking for ... Knowledgeable of USDA role and contact of onsite FSIS Inspector * USDA (MT) Sampling * Pre ...

Can you cut it with the industry leaders in meat portioning and cooking? We're always looking for ... Knowledgeable of USDA role and contact of onsite FSIS Inspector * USDA (MT) Sampling * Pre ...

New

Can you cut it with the industry leaders in meat portioning and cooking? We're always looking for ... Knowledgeable of USDA role and contact of onsite FSIS Inspector * USDA (MT) Sampling * Pre ...

New

RC029 Paraprofessional Investigatory & Law Enforcement Employees, Meat and Poultry Inspectors, and Meat and Poultry Inspector Trainees, IFPE. The RC-033 bargaining unit merged into RC-029 bargaining ...

Complete story and/or documentation for client repairs * Assist in mentoring technician trainees ... Certificates, Licenses, Registrations Operator Driver's License & State Inspection License ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Trainee Meat Inspector information

See salary details

$19.5K

$37K

$63.5K

How much do trainee meat inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee meat inspector in the United States is $37,004.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27,500.00 and $42,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trainee meat inspector do?

A Trainee Meat Inspector is responsible for learning how to examine meat products in processing plants to ensure they are safe, wholesome, and properly labeled according to government regulations. Under supervision, they are trained to identify signs of disease, contamination, or poor handling practices. Their duties include inspecting carcasses and organs, monitoring sanitation procedures, and documenting compliance issues. Over time, they gain the knowledge and skills needed to become fully qualified meat inspectors.

How do you become a trainee meat inspector?

To become a trainee meat inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete relevant training or certification programs in meat inspection or food safety. Some positions require knowledge of sanitation standards, inspection procedures, and may involve passing a written exam or practical assessment before starting the role.

What are some typical challenges faced by a trainee meat inspector during the initial months on the job?

As a Trainee Meat Inspector, one common challenge is adapting to the fast-paced and often physically demanding environment of processing facilities. New inspectors must quickly learn to identify and assess a wide range of meat quality and safety issues while adhering to strict regulatory standards. Another challenge is developing effective communication skills to work collaboratively with plant staff and senior inspectors, especially when addressing compliance concerns. Over time, gaining confidence in decision-making and maintaining attention to detail becomes easier with experience and mentorship.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee meat inspector?

To thrive as a Trainee Meat Inspector, you need a basic understanding of food safety, animal anatomy, and quality standards, typically supported by a relevant high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inspection tools, record-keeping systems, and food safety certifications such as HACCP is often required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and integrity are crucial soft skills for ensuring compliance and working with plant staff. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining food safety, adhering to regulations, and protecting public health in the meat processing industry.

What is the difference between Trainee Meat Inspector vs Meat Inspector?

AspectTrainee Meat InspectorMeat Inspector
QualificationsBasic certification, training in meat inspectionAdvanced certification, licensed to inspect independently
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, supervised inspectionsOfficial inspection facilities, regulatory settings
Job RoleAssists and learns inspection proceduresPerforms official meat quality and safety inspections

The main difference is that a Trainee Meat Inspector is in training and works under supervision, while a Meat Inspector is fully qualified and authorized to conduct independent inspections. Trainees gain experience before becoming certified professionals responsible for ensuring meat safety standards.

What cities are hiring for Trainee Meat Inspector jobs?

Cities with the most Trainee Meat Inspector job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Meat Inspector jobs?

The most popular types of Meat Inspector jobs are:

What states have the most Trainee Meat Inspector jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trainee Meat Inspector jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Trainee Meat Inspector jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Trainee Meat Inspector jobs are:

Infographic showing various Trainee Meat Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,004 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Food Inspector Trainee 1 (NY HELPS)

New York State

NY • On-site

$53K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description Harvest Your Potential with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Join a team committed to cultivating a thriving food and agriculture industry that benefits everyone - from producers to consumers. At the Department, you'll find a dynamic environment where innovation, sustainability, and community engagement are paramount.

Explore diverse opportunities, from environmental science to economic development, and discover your path to public service. Cultivate your professional and personal growth while making a tangible impact on a healthier, stronger New York. Plant the seeds for a rewarding career today.

Position Information: The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is seeking a permanent Food Inspector 1 or Trainee to conduct food safety inspections of food establishments to ensure sanitary, wholesome, and pure food in accordance with applicable laws and regulations in Columbia County, Ulster County, or Dutchess County, NY. The Food Inspector 1 or Trainee will prevent fraud, adulteration and misrepresentation in the processing, packaging, storage, distribution, and sale of food and food products by educating food establishment operators on applicable laws and regulations; sampling food products to verify food safety controls, product labeling, and contents; and issuing written notices, letters, and reports citing food establishment violations and enforcement actions. This position is perfect for a self-driven candidate who wants autonomy over their schedule, the ability to work from home, and enjoys working outside the office setting.

The Food Inspector 1 or Trainee is a full-time position working 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday. Travel Requirements: This position requires extensive travel. Appointees must either possess at the time of appointment and continuously thereafter a valid driver's license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State and have access to a motor vehicle when necessary or otherwise demonstrate their capacity to meet the regular transportation requirements in carrying out their field work responsibilities.

Additionally, this position may be required to travel out-of-state for overnight trips on occasion due to ongoing training commitments. Minimum Qualifications NY HELPS Minimum Qualifications: NY HELPS Qualifications: Applicants may be appointed to this position permanently if they meet these qualifications: Either 1. 120 semester credit hours which MUST include 24 credit hours in: chemistry, microbiology, food quality control, epidemiology, entomology, food technology, food science, food processing technology, food sanitation, dairy science, biology, environmental sanitation, environmental health, human physiology, genetics, animal science, nutrition/dietetics, or medical sciences; Or 2.

60 semester credit hours which MUST include 24 credit hours in: chemistry, microbiology, food quality control, epidemiology, entomology, food technology, food science, food processing technology, food sanitation, dairy science, biology, environmental sanitation, environmental health, human physiology, genetics, animal science, nutrition/dietetics, or medical sciences AND two years of experience where your primary responsibility is in the areas of environmental health protection and sanitation of food establishments, or quality control of food products at a wholesale food manufacturing facility. Advanced Placement: If you meet the minimum qualifications and have an additional one year of experience in which the primary responsibility involves the application of scientific techniques in the areas of environmental health protection and sanitation of food establishments or quality control of food products at a wholesale food manufacturing facility, you may be appointed to the Food Inspector Trainee 2. This will reduce the traineeship time by one year.

If you meet the minimum qualifications and have an additional two years of experience in the areas listed above, you may be appointed to the full performance title, Food Inspector 1, Grade 18. You must inform the hiring agency of this additional experience at the time of interview. Examples of Acceptable Experience: For the purposes of this examination, qualifying experience can be gained in jobs such as Environmental Health Technician, Sanitarian for food business, Food Inspector/Investigator, Meat Inspector, Quality Control Technician for a food processing plant or food warehouse, or Laboratory Technician with experience conducting analysis of food or dairy products.

Examples of Unacceptable Experience: Food Service Worker, Restaurant or Food Store Manager, Chef, Butcher, Caterer, Food Warehouse Foreperson, Food Warehouse Management, Food Comptroller, Beverage Comptroller, Food Production line worker, Banquet Manager, Steward, Food Equipment Salesperson, Food and Sanitation Equipment Salesperson, Food Broker, or Pesticide Applicator. Alternate Minimum Qualifications: You may also be eligible for appointment to this position if you meet any of the following minimum qualifications. 70.1 Transfer Qualifications to Food Inspector Trainee 1, NS: Applicants may be appointed to this position permanently if they have: one year of permanent, competitive service in a title designated as appropriate for transfer under Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law

Such titles include Farm Products Grading Inspector 1, G-14. 70.1 Transfer Qualifications to Food Inspector Trainee 2, NS: Applicants may be appointed to this position permanently if they have: one year of permanent, competitive service in a title designated as appropriate for transfer under Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law. Such titles include Farm Products Grading Inspector 2, G-18

70.1 Transfer Qualifications to Food Inspector 1, SG-18: Applicants may be appointed to this position permanently if they have: one year of permanent, competitive service in a title designated as appropriate for transfer under Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law. Such titles include but are not limited to: Dairy Products Specialist 1, G-18. 70.4 Transfer Qualifications to Food Inspector Trainee 1, NS: Applicants may be appointed to this position permanently if they have: one year of permanent, competitive service in a Grade 11 title or higher AND Either 1

120 semester credit hours which MUST include 24 credit hours in: chemistry, microbiology, food quality control, epidemiology, entomology, food technology, food science, food processing technology, food sanitation, dairy science, biology, environmental sanitation, environmental health, human physiology, genetics, animal science, nutrition/dietetics, or medical sciences; Or 2. 60 semester credit hours which MUST include 24 credit hours in: chemistry, microbiology, food quality control, epidemiology, entomology, food technology, food science, food processing technology, food sanitation, dairy science, biology, environmental sanitation, environmental health, human physiology, genetics, animal science, nutrition/dietetics, or medical sciences; AND two years of experience where your primary responsibility is in the areas of environmental health protection and sanitation of food establishments, or quality control of food products at a wholesale food manufacturing facility; AND received a passing score on the most recent Food Inspector 1 examination. Reinstatement Under Rule 5.4: Applicants may be appointed to this position permanently if they were previous permanent New York State employees who resigned their positions may be reinstated to their former positions, or to positions to which they were eligible for transfer or reassignment without further examination

Employees separated from their positions may be reinstated within one year of the date of their separation. Employees separated from their positions who have also been separated from state service for more than one year may be reinstated upon approval by the state Civil Service Commission. 55-b/c Qualifications: Applicants may be appointed to this position permanently if they meet these qualifications: Either 1.

120 semester credit hours which MUST include 24 credit hours in: chemistry, microbiology, food quality control, epidemiology, entomology, food technology, food science, food processing technology, food sanitation, dairy science, biology, environmental sanitation, environmental health, human physiology, genetics, animal science, nutrition/dietetics, or medical sciences; Or 2. 60 semester credit hours which MUST include 24 credit hours in: chemistry, microbiology, food quality control, epidemiology, entomology, food technology, food science, food processing technology, food sanitation, dairy science, biology, environmental sanitation, environmental health, human physiology, genetics, animal science, nutrition/dietetics, or medical sciences AND two years of experience where your primary responsibility is in the areas of environmental health protection and sanitation of food establishments, or quality control of food products at a wholesale food manufacturing facility. Advanced Placement: If you meet the minimum qualifications and have an additional one year of experience in which the primary responsibility involves the application of scientific techniques in the areas of environmental health protection and sanitation of food establishments or quality control of food products at a wholesale food manufacturing facility, you may be appointed to the Food Inspector Trainee 2.

This will reduce the traineeship time by one year. If you meet the minimum qualifications and have an additional two years of experience in the areas listed above, you may be appointed to the full performance title, Food Inspector 1, Grade 18. You must inform the hiring agency of this additional experience at the time of interview.

Examples of Acceptable Experience: For the purposes of this examination, qualifying experience can be gained in jobs such as Environmental Health Technician, Sanitarian for food business, Food Inspector/Investigator, Meat Inspector, Quality Control Technician for a food processing plant or food warehouse, or Laboratory Technician with experience conducting analysis of food or dairy products. Examples of Unacceptable Experience: Food Service Worker, Restaurant or Food Store Manager, Chef, Butcher, Caterer, Food Warehouse Foreperson, Food Warehouse Management, Food Comptroller, Beverage Comptroller, Food Production line worker, Banquet Manager, Steward, Food Equipment Salesperson, Food and Sanitation Equipment Salesperson, Food Broker, or Pesticide Applicator. Information about the Workers with Disabilities 55-b and the Veterans with Disabilities employment program 55-c can be found at 55b/c Recruitment Resources Center (ny.gov)

Additional Comments NY HELPS Program: This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS). For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply. At a future date (within one year of permanent appointment), it is expected employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive employment status converted to competitive status, without having to compete in an examination.

Employees will then be afforded with all the same rights and privileges of competitive class employees of New York State. While serving permanently in a NY HELPS title, employees may take part in any promotion examination for which they are qualified. Salary: The starting salary for the Food Inspector Trainee 1 is $53,764/ year, and the hiring salary for the PEF salary grade (SG) 14.

This position requires the completion of a two-year traineeship. After successful completion of the first year of the traineeship, the appointee will advance without further examination to the Trainee 2 level SG-16 (starting salary of $59,994). Completion of the second year of the traineeship will result in permanent advancement to the Food Inspector 1, SG-18 (starting salary of $66,951) without further examination.

Candidates may be eligible for appointment directly to the Trainee 2 or full performance level. For more information, see Advanced Placement below. The full title Food Inspector 1 position is in the PEF Salary Grade (SG) 18.

The starting salary of the PEF SG-18 is $66,951/year. The candidate appointed at the Food Inspector 1, SG-18 level, will be eligible to participate in the New York State Performance Evaluation Program. Through this program, employees receive yearly performance evaluations.

Performance advances are payable to PEF employees whose base annual salary is below the job rate for their current position and who were rated "Satisfactory" or its equivalent on their yearly performance evaluation. Performance advance payments are added to an employee's annual salary. Over time, yearly performance advances may lead to the SG-18 job rate salary of $85,138/ year.

Benefits: This is a PEF-represented position offering a comprehensive and valuable benefits package. You'll benefit from cost-effective health insurance options, fully covered dental and vision care, participation in the secure New York State Pension Plan, and ample paid time off. Your first year includes 5 personal days, 13 vacation days, 13 sick days, and 13 paid holidays - providing excellent work-life balance.

Explore additional advantages with programs such as the Deferred Compensation Plan, Flex Spending Account, and NY's 529 College Savings Program. For comprehensive details on these programs, please visit the New York State Office of Employee Relations website. As a New York State employee, you could potentially qualify to participate in the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

The PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on your direct student loans after you have made 120 qualifying monthly payments under an accepted repayment plan and while working full-time for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets or another eligible employer. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


What New York State employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom