Agricultural Inspector

**Introduction**

The Agricultural Inspector works in a laboratory to determine seed compliance with federal and state laws and regulations relating to the Delaware Seed Law and labeling requirements. Seed testing results are used by growers to determine the quality of seed and grain for sale or use and for crop insurance agents to determine the justification of claims. The Plant Industries Agricultural Inspector assesses the quality of seed for sale in Delaware.

**Summary Statement**

This position will inspect, sample, test, and verify, seed for diseases, pests, weeds, and inert matter to determine compliance with federal and state laws and regulations relating to the Delaware Seed Law. Samples are submitted and taken from rail cars, bulk bags, truck trailers, and retail stores as well as submitted by growers and insurance adjusters. Samples are received and logged for tracking while in the Seed Lab for testing. Various techniques are used to prepare samples depending on the testing required including weighed, counted, ground, soaked with chemicals or water, or refrigerated. Results will be recorded, evaluated, prepared, and submitted as well as records maintained.

**Job Type: Part-time 29.75 Hours/Week**

**Salary: $19.11 /hour**

**Job Posting Closing Date: June 3, 2024**

**Essential Functions**
- Conducts inspection and testing of 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.
- Collects and prepares samples such as seeds or grain for laboratory testing and analysis. Determines the most appropriate sampling technique.
- Logs, tracks, and follows up on abnormal agricultural commodities findings.
- 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 seed inspection.
- Develops and maintains a good working relationship with plant personnel, farmers, and facility management.

**Job Requirements**
- Knowledge or experience in inspecting agricultural commodities.
- Knowledge or experience in record keeping.
- Knowledge or experience in math such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, or decimals.
- Knowledge of operating specialized equipment to collect samples from agricultural commodities.

The resume is 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 resume 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.

**Job Posting Closing Date: June 3, 2024**

Deliver electronic copies of Resume and a Cover Letter to:
**Garret Valencik**

**Environmental Program Manager**

**Delaware Department of Agriculture**

**Plant Industries**

or deliver a hard copy to

**Attn: Garret Valencik**

**Plant Industries**

**Delaware Department of Agriculture**

**2320 S. DuPont Hwy**

**Dover, DE 19901**

**Job Type**: Part-time

Pay: $19.11 per hour

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

- Dover, DE 19901 (required)

Work Location: In person