Food manufacturing inspector

As a food manufacturing inspector you'll:

• inspect conditions in slaughterhouses and processing plants
•  carry out quality control checks and write quality reports
•  test samples of raw ingredients and processed products
•  analyse and present test results
•  make sure production processes meet hygiene regulations
•  train production staff in the importance of safety standards
•  check labelling and packaging
•  advise companies about making improvements, and issue warning notices

• the ability to analyse quality or performance
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of public safety and security 
• the ability to work well with others
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

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

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

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.