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Usda Food Inspector Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Food Safety Quality Manager

Holton, KS ยท On-site

$97K - $127K/yr

... Inspection Service (FSIS), of the US Department of Agriculture and other regulatory agencies. Our ... Knowledge and understanding of food safety, HACCP systems, USDA/FDA, Animal Handling and Welfare ...

... the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), of the US Department of Agriculture and other ... Ensure regulatory compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, including USDA- FSIS, Federal ...

Food Safety Quality Manager

Holton, KS ยท On-site

$97K - $127K/yr

... the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), of the US Department of Agriculture and other ... Ensure regulatory compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, including USDA- FSIS, Federal ...

Overnight Sanitation Team Member

De Soto, KS ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Adhere to FDA, USDA, OSHA, and company food safety and workplace safety regulations. * Wear proper ... Support audits and inspections by providing accurate cleaning records and demonstrating compliance.

Adhere to FDA, USDA, OSHA, and company food safety and workplace safety regulations. * Wear proper ... Support audits and inspections by providing accurate cleaning records and demonstrating compliance.

Overnight Sanitation Team Member

De Soto, KS ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Adhere to FDA, USDA, OSHA, and company food safety and workplace safety regulations. * Wear proper ... Support audits and inspections by providing accurate cleaning records and demonstrating compliance.

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Usda Food Inspector information

See Kansas salary details

$9.8K

$36.4K

$56.2K

How much do usda food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for usda food inspector in Kansas is $36,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,400.00 and $38,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Usda Food Inspector vs Food Safety Auditor?

AspectUsda Food InspectorFood Safety Auditor
CertificationsFood Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) certifications, possibly HACCPISO 22000, HACCP, or other food safety standards
Work EnvironmentInspecting meat, poultry, and processed foods at processing plantsAuditing food facilities for compliance, often off-site or at multiple locations
Employer & IndustryUSDA, government agencies, food processing industryPrivate consulting firms, food companies, regulatory agencies

While both roles focus on food safety, USDA Food Inspectors primarily conduct on-site inspections of food processing facilities to ensure compliance with federal standards. Food Safety Auditors evaluate and verify food safety management systems through audits, often working across multiple sites. Both roles require knowledge of food safety regulations but differ in their scope and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a USDA Food Inspector?

To thrive as a USDA Food Inspector, you need a solid understanding of food safety regulations, inspection procedures, and public health principles, typically supported by relevant experience or education in food science or a related field. Familiarity with inspection tools, data entry systems, and regulatory documentation is commonly required, and some roles may require specific USDA training or certifications. Strong attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this position. These skills ensure that food products meet safety standards, protecting public health and maintaining regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges USDA Food Inspectors face in their daily work?

USDA Food Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in fast-paced environments, ensuring strict adherence to food safety regulations, and effectively communicating with plant management and workers. They must be vigilant in identifying potential hazards and making quick decisions to prevent unsafe food from reaching consumers. The role may also involve working in varying temperatures and standing for long periods, which requires adaptability and attention to detail. Strong teamwork and clear documentation are essential for maintaining high standards and addressing compliance issues.

How long does it take to become a USDA Food Inspector?

Becoming a USDA Food Inspector typically requires completing a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as food science, agriculture, or biology, which takes about four years. Afterward, candidates must complete specialized training at a USDA training center, which can take several weeks to months, and pass a written exam and background check before starting the position.

What is a USDA Food Inspector?

USDA Food Inspectors are trained professionals employed by the United States Department of Agriculture to ensure that meat, poultry, and egg products are safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. They inspect food processing plants, slaughterhouses, and other facilities to enforce federal regulations and safety standards. Their work helps protect public health by preventing contaminated or unsafe food from reaching consumers.

How hard is it to be a USDA Food Inspector?

Becoming a USDA Food Inspector requires passing a competitive exam, meeting education and experience requirements, and often completing training programs. The job involves detailed inspections, adherence to safety standards, and can require working in various environments, which may pose physical and attention-to-detail challenges.

How to become a USDA Food Inspector?

To become a USDA Food Inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring a bachelor's degree in food science, biology, or a related field. Applicants must pass a background check, meet physical requirements, and may need to complete training provided by the USDA, including understanding food safety standards and inspection procedures.

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Usda Food Inspector jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Usda Food Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Usda Food Inspector job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,374 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Food Safety and Quality Manager

Industrial Resource Group

Topeka, KS โ€ข On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Description We are seeking an experienced Food Safety & Quality Manager to lead all food safety, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and animal welfare programs at a fresh meat processing and harvest facility. This is an outstanding opportunity for a hands-on leader who is passionate about building a world-class food safety culture while driving continuous improvement across plant operations. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for food safety and quality systems, develop high-performing teams, ensure regulatory compliance, and partner with operations to deliver exceptional product quality. Key Responsibilities Foster a culture focused on safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. Lead the facility's food safety and quality management systems, including written programs, policies, and procedures. Drive continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing quality metrics, identifying trends, and implementing corrective actions. Manage and oversee the facility's Animal Welfare programs and systems. Ensure compliance with USDA-FSIS, federal, state, and customer requirements. Lead internal, customer, regulatory, and third-party food safety audits, including SQF. Provide technical leadership on food safety, quality systems, HACCP, and regulatory compliance. Develop and deliver food safety and quality training programs. Participate in company-wide food safety, quality, process improvement, and animal welfare initiatives. Coach, mentor, and develop Food Safety & Quality team members. Manage third-party service providers, including sanitation and pest control. Lead capital planning and budgeting efforts supporting food safety and quality improvements. Job Requirements Education Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Microbiology, or a related field preferred. Experience Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in Food Safety and Quality. Food manufacturing experience required. Preferred Knowledge & Skills Strong leadership with demonstrated success developing teams. Extensive knowledge of HACCP, USDA-FSIS regulations, FDA regulations, food safety systems, and animal welfare programs. Experience working directly with USDA inspection personnel. Knowledge of Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) standards; SQF experience preferred. Experience with fresh product microbiology and shelf-life programs. Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies. Experience with SAP, Redzone, or similar digital quality management systems preferred. Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office. Additional Information Email: cpaisley irgsolution.com Subject: Food Safety and Quality Manager- Topeka, KS Meet Your Recruiter Craig Paisley