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Usda Food Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Usda Food information

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How much do usda food jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for usda food in the United States is $16.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a USDA Food job?

USDA Food jobs refer to positions within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that focus on food safety, nutrition, food inspection, research, and related services. These roles include food inspectors, nutritionists, scientists, policy analysts, and program managers, among others. USDA Food employees work to ensure that the nation's food supply is safe, wholesome, and properly labeled, and often oversee nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC. These jobs play a crucial role in supporting public health and agricultural industries across the country.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a USDA Food Inspector?

To thrive as a USDA Food Inspector, you need knowledge of food safety regulations, public health standards, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience in food science or agriculture. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory testing equipment, and data entry systems is typically required. Attention to detail, integrity, and strong communication skills help inspectors identify violations and collaborate with facility staff. These skills ensure the safety and quality of the nation's food supply and protect public health.

What challenges do USDA Food Inspectors face in their daily work?

USDA Food Inspectors often face challenges such as working in fast-paced environments, handling physically demanding tasks, and maintaining attention to detail during repetitive inspections. They must also stay up-to-date with changing regulations and adapt to various shifts, including early mornings or weekends. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with food safety protocols, developing strong observation skills, and being open to ongoing training and feedback from experienced colleagues.

What is the difference between Usda Food vs Food Inspector?

AspectUsda FoodFood Inspector
CertificationsUSDA certifications, food safety trainingFood safety certifications, USDA training often required
Work EnvironmentFood processing plants, farms, regulatory agenciesInspection sites, government agencies, food facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUSDA oversees food safety, quality, and labelingEnforces food safety standards, inspects facilities

USDA Food roles typically involve managing food safety standards and quality assurance within USDA programs, while Food Inspectors focus on inspecting food facilities to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but their primary responsibilities differ: USDA Food professionals develop policies and oversee food safety, whereas Food Inspectors enforce these standards through inspections.

Do you need a degree to work for USDA?

A degree is not always required to work for the USDA, as many positions accept relevant work experience or specialized training. However, certain roles, especially those in scientific, research, or technical fields, may require a bachelor's degree or higher. Job requirements vary by position and level of responsibility.

Is it hard to become a USDA food inspector?

Becoming a USDA food inspector requires meeting specific qualifications, including relevant education or experience, passing written exams, and completing training programs. The process can be competitive and involves understanding food safety regulations and inspection procedures. Candidates often need attention to detail and knowledge of food processing environments.
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Cities with the most Usda Food job openings:

What states have the most Usda Food jobs?

States with the most job openings for Usda Food jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Usda Food jobs look for?

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Infographic showing various Usda Food job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,769 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description

The Production Chef is responsible for the day-to-day culinary production operations at the commissary, ensuring all meals meet USDA meal pattern requirements, nutrition standards, and food safety regulations. This role translates standardized, USDA-compliant recipes into high-quality, appealing meals produced at scale, while maintaining compliance with HACCP protocols. The Production Chef works under the direction of the Commissary Manager to execute the master production schedule across all served sites.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES


Culinary Production and Menu Execution

Execute a variety of different cycles including USDA-approved cycle menus and standardized recipes with consistency in yield, portion size, and quality. Adapt recipes for scratch-cooking, speed-scratch, or batch cooking as directed, while preserving nutrient content and meal pattern compliance (calories, sodium, whole grains, milk, fruit and vegetable components). Conduct recipe testing, tasting panels, and menu development support in collaboration with the Commissary Manager and Registered Dietitian. Monitor food quality, presentation, temperature, and taste standards at point of production.


Food Safety and Compliance

Enforce HACCP-based Standard Operating Procedures at all critical control points. Maintain accurate production records, temperature logs, and time and temperature control documentation required for USDA administrative review. Ensure compliance with local health department codes and USDA food safety guidelines. Support allergen management protocols and special dietary accommodation procedures.


Inventory and Production Planning

Forecast production quantities based on daily meal counts and site orders. Communicate ingredients and supply needs to the Commissary Manager for procurement. Minimize food waste through proper production forecasting, batch cooking, and utilization of leftovers within USDA guidelines. Conduct or assist with inventory counts and rotation using first-in, first-out procedures.


Equipment and Facility

Ensure proper use, cleaning, and maintenance of kitchen equipment. Report on equipment malfunctions or facility issues to the Commissary Manager. Maintain sanitation standards throughout production areas.

Delivery Support 

Operate commissary delivery vehicles to transport prepared meals, food products, and supplies to satellite school sites as needed, following all applicable traffic laws and district vehicle safety policies. Ensure food is transported at safe holding temperatures during transit in accordance with USDA and health department guidelines. Assist with loading and unloading delivery vehicles and verify accuracy of site orders upon delivery. Maintain delivery logs and report any vehicle issues to the Commissary Manager.  


Reporting and Communication

Provide daily and weekly production reports to the Commissary Manager. Communicate with satellite site managers regarding delivery schedules, special menu items, or substitutions. Participate in USDA administrative reviews and audits as needed.


Requirements

Required

  • Valid NYS Drivers license required
  • 3 or more years of high-volume food production experience in an institutional, school nutrition, healthcare, or commercial kitchen setting. 
  • ServSafe Manager Certification or equivalent, obtained within 30 to 90 days of hire.
  • Working knowledge of USDA meal pattern requirements and Child Nutrition Program regulations, or willingness to be trained. Supervisory experience preferred. Culinary degree, formal apprenticeship, or equivalent professional experience.


Preferred

  • Experience with school nutrition software such as production and inventory systems (Nutrikids, Mosaic and LINQ). 
  • Familiarity with HACCP documentation and audit processes. 
  • Experience scaling recipes for large-batch or institutional production.
  •  Must have basic computer skills including Microsoft office.


Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds. 
  • Ability to work in hot and cold kitchen environments. 
  • Early morning start times required due to commissary production schedules.


REPORTING RELATIONSHIP

Commissary Manager