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Usda Food Inspector Jobs in Tyler, TX (NOW HIRING)

Our purpose and promise of Great Food, Made Simple ® drives us. Based in Tyler, Texas, the company ... Familiarity with regulatory compliance standards (e.g., USDA, FDA, third-party audits), strong ...

Welder 1st

Tyler, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Our purpose and promise of Great Food, Made Simple ® drives us. Based in Tyler, Texas, the company ... USDA , 3-A Sanitary Standards, or equivalent regulations • Preferred Qualifications • ...

Usda Food Inspector information

See Tyler, TX salary details

$10.4K

$38.4K

$59.4K

How much do usda food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for usda food inspector in Tyler, TX is $38,433.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,300.00 and $41,000.00 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 cities near Tyler, TX are hiring for Usda Food Inspector jobs?

Cities near Tyler, TX with the most Usda Food Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Usda Food Inspector job openings in Tyler, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,433 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


John Soules Foods rating

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

434th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Title: Quality Assurance Technician 1st Shift - Location: Tyler, Tx
Department: Quality Assurance Tech RTE - Reports To: Quality Assurance Supervisor RTE
Normal Work Schedule: The typical working hours are 6:00 am to 3:00pm, with a 45-minute lunch.
Overview of Company
John Soules Foods is a thriving family-owned food company that has made a positive difference for its customers and consumers for nearly 50 years. Our purpose and promise of Great Food, Made Simple® drives us. Based in Tyler, Texas, the company is a leading national producer of ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook chicken and beef products and is the number one producer of chicken and beef fajitas in the USA. We proudly serve a broad portfolio of great-tasting, high-quality products sold throughout the US via retail, food service distributors, and restaurants. Our wide array of national customers includes prominent organizations such as Walmart, Costco, Sam's Club, Sysco, and HEB. The company was established in 1975 by John Soules Sr., and the business is now in the second generation of family leadership. The organization has expanded dramatically over the past decade, and with its continued growth, it now has annual sales of approximately $1 billion. The company employs over 2,000 individuals and has three manufacturing facilities in Gainesville, Georgia; Valley, Alabama; and its headquarters in Tyler, Texas.
Job Summary
The Quality Assurance (QA) Technician supports the QA Supervisor in managing and enforcing the plant's food safety and quality systems, ensuring regulatory compliance and adherence to company standards. The technician is responsible for monitoring HACCP, GMPs, SSOPs, and other QA programs. This role involves product specifications' monitoring, detailed documentation, real-time corrective actions, and clear communication across all levels of the production process to maintain consistent product quality and safety.
Qualifications
  • Minimum Qualifications (Required)

Working knowledge of food safety and quality systems, including HACCP, GMPs, and SSOPs, Intermediate computer proficiency (e.g., data entry, basic spreadsheets, document management), ability to stand firm on quality issues while maintaining respect with staff, excellent attendance, and strong communication and interpersonal skills. Must have the willingness to work overtime, including weekends, as needed.
  • Preferred Qualifications

2 years of experience in a food processing or manufacturing environment, prior experience in a QA Technician or QA Lead Technician role, and knowledge of the company's products and equipment. Familiarity with regulatory compliance standards (e.g., USDA, FDA, third-party audits), strong focus, time management, organizational skills, and the ability to work in a team-oriented environment. Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.
Key Responsibilities
NOTE: This description is not intended to be all-inclusive. An employee may perform other related duties to meet the organization's ongoing needs; these duties are considered marginal.
Work Environment
The QA Technician will work primarily on the production floor, which includes cold temperature zones (40 F - 45 F), and may be exposed to food-related odors, dust, and seasoning particles. This role requires working near machinery and frequent interaction with production and sanitation teams, and is a fast-paced environment requiring attentiveness and quick problem-solving. Always wearing PPE is required to follow the company's Safety and Food Safety Polices.
Physical Demands
The position requires regular standing, walking, bending, climbing stairs, and lifting (up to 50 pounds). Use their hands for tasks, reach with their arms, communicate verbally, and be able to perform detailed paperwork and inspections requiring focus and precision. Close, distance, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
The applicant who fills this position will be eligible for the following:
  • Vacation
  • Sick days
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Benefits
  • 401k with company match
  • Telemedicine
  • Onsite Clinic - Tyler and Valley
  • Free annual health screening
  • STD and LTD
  • Life insurance

John Soules Foods is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. Applicants with disabilities needing accommodation during the application process can contact Human Resources at the relevant location. John Soules Foods will not discriminate against applicants who discuss their compensation. We also participate in the E-Verify program where required by law.

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