Agricultural Inspector in Dover, DE

This position works in a laboratory to inspect, sample, test, and verify seed for diseases, pests, weeds, and inert matter to determine compliance with federal and state laws and regulations.

Also, will record, evaluate, and submit test results, and maintain test records. Submitted samples are from rail cars, bulk bags, trailers, and retail stores as well as growers and insurance adjusters.

The ability to develop positive working relationship with seed retailers and growers and crop insurance adjusters to interpret pertinent laws related to their businesses is necessary.

The candidate will issue bills and receive payments for services, and often work in collaboration with Grain Inspector and Seed Certification Specialist. The candidate is expected to pursue Certified Seed Analyst Training.

Applicants who do not possess the preferred qualification will still be eligible to compete for this position if job requirements are met.

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Conducts field inspections of livestock, poultry and pet animals for the presence of disease; provides advice on proper sanitation, animal husbandry, and other techniques of disease prevention OR conducts inspection and testing of multiple commodities such as fertilizers, soil conditioners, feeds, pet foods, liming materials, frozen desserts, seeds and grain for quality and safety; and verifies proper dating and labeling of commodity packages and containers.
• Enforces federal and state laws, rules and regulations by investigating and reporting cases of non-compliance.
• Makes recommendations for resolution of violations. Works with the proper authority to determine corrective action; provides training and guidance in area of inspection to make improvements and ensure future compliance.
• Attends auctions to assess health conditions of animals, issue health certificates, and ensure compliance with federal and state laws and regulations AND/OR conducts inspections of plant/facility equipment to ensure compliance and accuracy.
• May inspect and monitor the ownership of dangerous exotic pets and issues permits to owners that meet applicable requirements.
• Collects and prepares samples such as blood, feces, milk, swabs, fertilizers, feeds, frozen desserts, seeds, grain or air samples for laboratory testing and analysis. Determines the most appropriate sampling technique.
• Logs, tracks and follows up on quarantined animals or abnormal agricultural commodities findings.
• Conducts emergency testing and follow-up in the event of a disease out-break or other significant issue.
• Utilizes computers to prepare reports and maintain records.
• Develops and maintains documentation and records of inspections.
• Cooperates with federal agencies, official state organizations and agencies, and other State representatives on matters related to agricultural inspection.
• Develops and maintains a good working relationship with plant personnel, farmers, and facility management.

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Agricultural Inspector
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

Agricultural Inspector- Agricultural Commodities:

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State of Delaware Executive Branch participates in the Federal E-Verify system where the State will provide the federal government with each new hires Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For more information refer to our job seeker resources.

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position. It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties. For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content. Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email. Please keep your contact information current. You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.

The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.