Job Description

This job is part of our sustainability series:  > See more sustainable job ideas > Find out more about sustainable careers

Food manufacturing inspectors make sure companies meet hygiene and safety standards, and that products are safe to eat.

Entry Requirements

You can get into this job through:

Apprenticeship

You can work towards this job by doing a food and drink process operator advanced apprenticeship.

You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship.

Click here to search for an apprenticeship. 

Direct application

To apply directly you'll usually need:

• a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English, science and maths
• experience in food production
• excellent knowledge of food laws

Some employers will also expect you to have qualifications in food technology, biology or chemistry. Others may ask for experience as a qualified environmental health officer.

You’ll also need food hygiene certificates.

Work

You could start out in a food manufacturing operator role and move into inspection after further training.

More information

You can find out more about careers in food safety from the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health.

You'll usually need a driving licence to travel between sites.

Career Path and Progression

With experience you could become a food safety manager, co-ordinating the work of a team of inspectors.

You could also move into environmental health or food science after training.

Related careers you may be interested in:

• Baker
• Brewery worker
• Meat process worker
• Production worker (manufacturing)

Required Skills

• Excellent problem solving skills
• Confidence in your own abilities
• Good organisation and planning skills
• Good IT skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Able to present your ideas to others effectively

Salary Range

£15,500 to £30,000