$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
VA · On-site
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
$55K/yr
... Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program ... management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine ...
New
Usda Meat Inspector information
See Virginia salary details
$19.54 - $20.02
8% of jobs
$20.02 - $20.50
14% of jobs
$20.61 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$20.50 - $20.97
12% of jobs
$20.97 - $21.45
8% of jobs
The median wage is $21.72 / hr.
$21.45 - $21.93
14% of jobs
$21.93 - $22.40
12% of jobs
$22.40 - $22.88
0% of jobs
$22.88 - $23.36
0% of jobs
$23.36 - $23.83
4% of jobs
$23.97 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$23.83 - $24.31
12% of jobs
$24.31 - $24.79
17% of jobs
$19
$22
$24
How much do usda meat inspector jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for usda meat inspector in Virginia is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a USDA Meat Inspector, and why are they important?
To thrive as a USDA Meat Inspector, you need a solid understanding of food safety regulations, animal anatomy, and the ability to identify health hazards, typically supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or USDA certification. Familiarity with inspection tools, data entry systems, and sanitation monitoring devices is important. Attention to detail, integrity, and strong communication skills help inspectors enforce standards and collaborate with plant staff. These abilities ensure the safety and quality of meat products, protecting public health and maintaining regulatory compliance.
What are some common challenges faced by USDA Meat Inspectors in their daily work?
USDA Meat Inspectors often face challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety and sanitation standards in fast-paced processing environments. They must stay vigilant to identify potential hazards or violations while balancing the need to keep production lines moving efficiently. Inspectors also navigate regular communication with plant management and workers, sometimes needing to enforce regulations that impact operations. Successfully managing these responsibilities requires strong attention to detail, resilience under pressure, and effective interpersonal skills.
What is the difference between Usda Meat Inspector vs Food Safety Inspector?
| Aspect | Usda Meat Inspector | Food Safety Inspector |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | USDA certification, HACCP knowledge | Varies by agency, often HACCP and food safety certifications |
| Work Environment | Meat processing plants, slaughterhouses | Food production facilities, regulatory agencies |
| Employer & Industry | USDA, meat and poultry industry | Federal, state, or local agencies across food sectors |
The USDA Meat Inspector primarily focuses on inspecting meat and poultry products in processing plants to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Food Safety Inspectors have a broader scope, overseeing various food industries to ensure public health standards are met. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, their specific responsibilities and industry focus differ.
Is it hard to become a USDA Meat Inspector?
Becoming a USDA Meat Inspector requires meeting specific qualifications, including relevant education, work experience, and passing written and practical exams. The process involves completing training programs and obtaining certifications, which can take several months to a year depending on individual circumstances.
What is a USDA Meat Inspector?
USDA Meat Inspectors are trained professionals employed by the United States Department of Agriculture to ensure that meat and poultry products are safe, wholesome, and properly labeled for human consumption. They inspect animals before and after slaughter to check for signs of disease or contamination and enforce federal regulations regarding food safety and sanitation in processing plants. Their work helps protect public health by preventing unsafe or contaminated products from reaching consumers.
What are popular job titles related to Usda Meat Inspector jobs in Virginia? For Usda Meat Inspector jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Usda Meat Inspector jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Usda Meat Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
$55K/yr
Full-time
Posted 2 days ago
New
Job description
If selected as an Animal Identification Coordinator, you will be assigned to Veterinary Services, Field Operations and will be responsible for identifying the herd of origin through the use of the animal identification program within an assigned geographic territory.
One vacancy is available in either Colorado or Wyoming. Additionally, there is one vacancy available in each of the other states listed in the announcement.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
FOR THE GS-08 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-07 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE AT THE GS-08 GRADE LEVEL: Applicants may have combinations of successfully completed education and specialized experience to meet total qualification requirements. The total percentages must equal at least 100 percent to qualify for that grade level.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:Please see above for education qualification requirement information.Employment Type: OTHER
One vacancy is available in either Colorado or Wyoming. Additionally, there is one vacancy available in each of the other states listed in the announcement.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
FOR THE GS-08 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-07 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
- Gathers information from individuals or organizations that owned or handled animals prior to the animals being identified as a reactor and traces the movement of the animals back to the herd of origin using the animal identification program.
- Reviews inventory of supplies and equipment used in animal identification programs to ensure sufficient inventory for effective program operations.
- Monitors all activities in support of the animal identification program (i.e., ear tags, vaccination tags, bangle tags, reactor tags, back tags, etc.).
- Works with officials and employees in the livestock industry, other Federal Agencies, State diagnostic laboratories and other interested persons to explain the requirements of the animal identification program.
- Reviews forms, health certificates, herd record and laboratory reports from Food Safety and Inspection Service or contractors for completeness and accuracy of program identification procedures.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for this grade level.
TRANSCRIPTS are required if:
- You are qualifying for the position based on education.
- You are qualifying for this position based on a combination of experience and education.
- This education must have been successfully completed and obtained from an accredited school, college, or university.
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE AT THE GS-08 GRADE LEVEL: Applicants may have combinations of successfully completed education and specialized experience to meet total qualification requirements. The total percentages must equal at least 100 percent to qualify for that grade level.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.