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Usda Inspector Jobs in Turlock, CA (NOW HIRING)

DeRuosi Nut

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Quality Control Inspector

Escalon, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

Inspect product during processing for compliance with USDA/DFA and customer specifications. * Document all inspection results in QC logs and digital tracking systems. * Identify and report non ...

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA · On-site

Perform maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments, including inspection, calibration ... Familiarity with FDA BAM, USDA MLG, CMMEF, APHA, and AOAC methodology. * Basic computer skills ...

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA

Perform maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments, including inspection, calibration ... Familiarity with FDA BAM, USDA MLG, CMMEF, APHA, and AOAC methodology. * Basic computer skills ...

Certified Group

Research Associate

Turlock, CA

Perform maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments, including inspection, calibration ... Familiarity with FDA BAM, USDA MLG, CMMEF, APHA, and AOAC methodology. * Basic computer skills ...

SUPHERB FARMS

Foreperson

Turlock, CA · On-site

... inspections of production lines and equipment. · Address production issues and implement ... Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, FDA, USDA, and OSHA regulations. * Strong leadership, communication, and ...

All JobsUsda Inspector JobsUsda Inspector Jobs in Turlock, CA

Usda Inspector information

See Turlock, CA salary details

$25.8K

$57.8K

$104.1K

How much do usda inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for usda inspector in Turlock, CA is $57,762.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $66,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectUsda InspectorFood Safety Inspector
CertificationsUSDA certifications, food safety trainingFood safety certifications, possibly USDA training
Work EnvironmentInspecting farms, processing plants, slaughterhousesInspecting food facilities, restaurants, processing plants
Employer & IndustryUSDA, federal government, agriculture & food industryLocal/state agencies, federal agencies, food industry

Both roles focus on food safety and require similar certifications. USDA Inspectors primarily work within the agricultural and processing sectors, ensuring compliance with federal standards. Food Safety Inspectors may work in various food-related environments, including restaurants and local facilities, often with overlapping certifications. The main difference lies in their specific work settings and regulatory focus.

How many years does it take to be a food inspector?

Becoming a USDA food inspector typically requires a bachelor's degree in a related field such as food science, biology, or agriculture, which takes about four years to complete. Additionally, applicants often need to complete on-the-job training and pass certification exams, which can add several months to a year depending on the program and position.

What are USDA Inspectors?

USDA Inspectors are professionals employed by the United States Department of Agriculture responsible for ensuring that food products, especially meat, poultry, and eggs, meet federal safety and quality standards. They conduct inspections at processing plants, slaughterhouses, and other facilities to verify compliance with regulations. Their duties include checking for contamination, proper labeling, and adherence to sanitation protocols. By enforcing these standards, USDA Inspectors help protect public health and maintain consumer confidence in the nation's food supply.

How much do food safety inspectors make in the US?

Food safety inspectors, including USDA inspectors, typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000 in the US. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and level of certification, with some inspectors earning over $70,000 annually. The role often requires knowledge of food safety standards and inspection procedures.

What are the requirements to be an USDA inspector?

To become an USDA inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant work experience in food safety or inspection, and must pass written and practical exams. Additional certifications or training in food science, agriculture, or related fields are often required, along with the ability to work in various environments and adhere to strict safety standards.

What are some common challenges USDA Inspectors face in their daily work, and how are they typically addressed?

USDA Inspectors often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of inspections, adapting to changing regulations, and maintaining objectivity under pressure from producers or facility staff. To address these, inspectors rely on thorough training, ongoing professional development, and clear communication with both team members and facility personnel. Support from supervisors and standardized protocols also help ensure that inspectors can uphold food safety and quality standards consistently, even when facing difficult situations.

Can you be a food inspector without a degree?

Becoming a USDA food inspector typically requires at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but many positions prefer or require some college coursework or a degree in food science, agriculture, or a related field. Certification and experience in food safety or inspection procedures are also important for employment in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a USDA Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a USDA Inspector, you need a solid understanding of food safety regulations, inspection procedures, and often a degree in agriculture, food science, or a related field. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory testing methods, and USDA compliance systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and integrity help inspectors identify safety issues and work effectively with facility staff. These skills ensure public health and regulatory compliance by maintaining high standards of food quality and safety.
What cities near Turlock, CA are hiring for Usda Inspector jobs? Cities near Turlock, CA with the most Usda Inspector job openings:
Usda Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Usda Inspector job openings in Turlock, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,762 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Quality Control Inspector

Quality Control Inspector

DeRuosi Nut

Escalon, CA • On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

Temporary

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

We are seeking seasonal Quality Control Inspectors to join our QA/QC team during harvest season. QC Inspectors monitor product quality throughout receiving, processing, and packing, ensuring compliance with USDA/DFA grading standards, customer specifications, and food safety programs. This role is essential in protecting our reputation for premium-quality walnuts.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Perform incoming inspections on walnut lots, including sampling, sizing, moisture testing, and grading for defects and color.
  • Inspect product during processing for compliance with USDA/DFA and customer specifications.
  • Document all inspection results in QC logs and digital tracking systems.
  • Identify and report non-conformances to supervisors for corrective action.
  • Verify correct lot labeling and maintain traceability throughout the production process.
  • Conduct in-line inspections on packing lines to ensure weight accuracy, product integrity, and packaging compliance.
  • Work closely with production leads and forklift drivers to pull representative samples.
  • Assist in maintaining a clean and organized QC workspace.
  • Follow GMPs, HACCP guidelines, and SQF program requirements at all times.

Qualifications:

  • Prior QC or QA experience in food processing preferred (nuts, produce, or similar agricultural products).
  • Knowledge of USDA/DFA walnut grading standards a plus (training provided).
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in recordkeeping.
  • Ability to follow established inspection protocols and communicate findings clearly.
  • Basic computer skills for entering inspection data.
  • English proficiency required; bilingual English/Spanish a plus.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs. regularly, 50 lbs. occasionally.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive hourly rate (DOE) with overtime opportunities during peak harvest.
  • On-site training on USDA/DFA grading standards, food safety, and QC procedures.
  • Work in a modern facility with advanced inspection and sorting technology.
  • Opportunity to return for future harvest seasons or transition into year-round QC roles.

Skills

Quality Control (QC)

Product Inspection

HACCP Procedures

SQF Certified

USDA/DFA Grading Standards

Company Description

DeRuosi Nut is a walnut processing facility located in the fertile San Joaquin County. Our facility processes a wide variety of both inshell and shelled walnuts including; Chandler, Howard, Hartley, Tulare and Livermore.
In 1947, Michael DeRuosi Sr. was drawn to California by the promise of fertile agricultural ground, reminding him of the lands his family had farmed for generations. After serving in WWII, he purchased an existing fruit dehydrator in Escalon, California, to begin his journey in the food processing industry. The plant processed a range of commodities over several decades, including raisins, apricots, prunes, and eventually walnuts. As a family-run business, Michael DeRuosi III began assisting his grandfather at the age of 12, gaining valuable knowledge and experience in the food processing industry.
After graduating with a business degree, Michael DeRuosi III embarked on a successful career in various industries, including real estate and banking. In 1994, he returned to partner with his grandfather, and together they founded DeRuosi Nut, specializing in processing California walnuts. Since then, the company has grown conservatively and steadily into one of California's premier walnut processors, now processing nearly 50 million pounds of California walnuts annually.
DeRuosi Nut's commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a well-deserved reputation in the food processing industry. They are dedicated to producing the highest quality product, and their success is a testament to their hard work and dedication. As they continue to expand and innovate, DeRuosi Nut remains a trusted name in the industry, delivering top-notch products to customers worldwide.