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Usda Food Inspector Jobs in Memphis, TN (NOW HIRING)

Performs monthly USDA calculations once the meal accounting records and food costs are received ... Performs impromptu meal inspections to ensure quality and USDA guidelines are being met daily

Performs monthly USDA calculations once the meal accounting records and food costs are received ... Performs impromptu meal inspections to ensure quality and USDA guidelines are being met daily

Performs monthly USDA calculations once the meal accounting records and food costs are received ... Performs impromptu meal inspections to ensure quality and USDA guidelines are being met daily

Performs monthly USDA calculations once the meal accounting records and food costs are received ... Performs impromptu meal inspections to ensure quality and USDA guidelines are being met daily

Usda Food Inspector information

See Memphis, TN salary details

$9.8K

$36.4K

$56.2K

How much do usda food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for usda food inspector in Memphis, TN is $36,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,500.00 and $38,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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 sometimes working in challenging environments, but it is generally accessible to those with relevant qualifications and attention to detail.

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 usually undergo specialized training provided by the USDA, which can last several weeks to months, depending on the program and the specific inspection area.

How to become a USDA Food Inspector?

To become a USDA Food Inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant work experience, and must pass a written exam and a background check. Additional qualifications may include knowledge of food safety standards, inspection procedures, and sometimes specialized training or certifications. The USDA also offers training programs for new inspectors to ensure compliance with federal regulations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Usda Food Inspector jobs in Memphis, TN?

The most popular types of Usda Food Inspector jobs in Memphis, TN are:

What cities near Memphis, TN are hiring for Usda Food Inspector jobs?

Cities near Memphis, TN with the most Usda Food Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Usda Food Inspector job openings in Memphis, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,403 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Youth Villages rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 242 rated social care providers


Job description

For over 35 years, Youth Villages has transformed the lives of children and families nationwide through innovative, research-based programs focused on preserving and restoring families.
As a national leader in children's mental and behavioral health, we serve more than 47,000 youth, young people, and their families annually across 29 states and Washington, D.C. Our proven treatment models drive long-term success in child welfare, juvenile justice, and mental health systems. At Youth Villages, we do what works - partnering with others to expand our impact and advocate for meaningful, lasting change.
We're seeking purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about making a difference. With a dedicated team of more than 5,000 staff, Youth Villages is committed to investing in and supporting our employees by offering opportunities to build a fulfilling career through professional growth, personal development, and a mission that matters- helping children and families live successfully.
For more information, please visit www.youthvillages.org
Program Overview:
Youth Villages' residential programs in Tennessee and Georgia provide safe, nurturing environments for youth ages 6 to 17 with complex behavioral and mental health challenges. These programs are offered across three types of facilities-secure facilities, open campuses, and group homes-each designed to meet the individual needs of youth exhibiting a range of referral behaviors, including aggression, self-harm, suicidal ideations, and problem sexual behavior.
Our residential campuses deliver an intensive treatment program that strikes a unique balance between structure and freedom, all while preparing youth for continued success outside of a residential setting. A key focus is to help each youth step down to the least restrictive treatment option possible by developing the skills they need to thrive in less structured environments through trauma-informed care, clinical interventions, life skills building, and recreation therapy (in selection locations). Most youth also attend fully accredited schools located on our campuses, ensuring their educational progress continues alongside therapeutic support.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The Dietitian:
  • Works closely with the Nutrition Services Manager to meet standards and expectations, complete yearly bidding process, and maintain master documentation for all Youth Villages sites for required period of time
  • Works closely with US. Department of Agriculture (USDA) consultant and attends required USDA trainings
  • Creates new menus quarterly, incorporates any new USDA changes, and ensures compliance with nutrition regulations and standards
  • Performs monthly USDA calculations once the meal accounting records and food costs are received
  • Enters reimbursement figures into designated state agency portal for monthly reimbursement from USDA
  • Develops and discusses special diet requirements with youth
  • Performs impromptu meal inspections to ensure quality and USDA guidelines are being met daily
  • Performs spot inspections for all Nutritional Services staff/equipment and reports any findings to Nutrition Services Manager (including but not limited to: proper serving protocols, food preparation, recipe adherence, cooler and freezer temperatures, food storage and date rotation, and overall cleanliness and sanitation)
  • Creates educational materials and programs related to nutrition
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Additional Information:
  • The supervision and treatment of youth requires prolonged periods of walking, standing, running, climbing stairs, and physical agility.
  • Applicants must be able to participate in physical interventions when necessary and frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, occasionally more than 100 pounds.
  • Applicants are required to complete Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) and CPR trainings and pass an agility and strength evaluation.
  • Applicants must possess a current, valid driver's license.

Salary:
60,000 Per Year
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Clinical Nutrition, Dietetics or related degree (required)
  • Registered Dietitian credential (required)
  • Active license in the applicable state (required)
  • Membership in professional organizations (strongly preferred)
  • Experience working with youth (plus)
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Excellent written, verbal, and oral skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
  • Basic computer knowledge
  • Ability to maintain a flexible schedule

Youth Villages Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug Coverage and Vision
  • 401(k)
  • Time off:
    • 2 week paid vacation (full-time) / 1 week paid vacation (part-time)
    • 12 paid sick days per year
    • 11 paid holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Mileage & Cell Phone Reimbursement (when applicable)
  • Tuition reimbursement and licensure supervision
  • Growth & development through continuous training
  • Clinical and administrative advancement opportunities

*Benefits are excluded for variable status employees.
Youth Villages is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Youth Villages is committed to not only advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace but also in our work with children and young adults. We know that children, families and young people of color can face inequity in child welfare and justice systems, and we train our employees to build the skills they need to work with the communities that we serve, as well as, other employees from different cultures and backgrounds. Youth Villages is opposed to racism in any of its forms and is committed to inclusion, equity, and diversity. We believe that respect for each other is crucial in the work that we do each day.

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