Seasonal Organic Inspector

The Montana Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for our Seasonal Organic Inspector in Chinook, Malta, and Hinsdale areas. Open until filled.

The Montana Department of Agriculture is serving Montana Agriculture and growing prosperity under the Big Sky.

Job Overview:

Provides expertise in organic crop production, handling, processing, and the organic certification process. This position is responsible for conducting organic inspections; writing inspection reports; providing education and technical assistance to organic producers and handlers; provide information for organic cost-share program requests.

Typical Duties:

Plan, prepare, and implement inspections for agricultural programs.

Maintain standard operating procedures, manuals, reports, data, and other relevant documentation for agricultural programs and operations.

Provide information or recommendations to best use land, promote plant growth, and avoid or correct agricultural problems.

Respond to inquiries for agricultural programs and requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of the concepts, theories, principles, and practices of agricultural science, including crop and livestock production; soil and plant management; crop nutrition; and organic production, handling, and processing.

Knowledge of inspection and investigation methods and procedures, and organic certification laws and standards.

Knowledge of trends and issues affecting Montana’s agriculture and livestock industry.

Knowledge of inspection procedures, standard operating procedures.

Knowledge of the Montana Organic Certification Act, Montana Code Annotated (MCA) 80-11-601 and 602 and the associated Administrative Rules of Montana; and National Code of Organics 7CFR 205 and associated guidance documentation issued by the USDA NOP.

Skills in interpreting and applying rules and regulations as they apply to the program.Ability to maintain and handle confidential information and data.

Ability to communicate effectively and diplomatically both verbally and in writing.

Initiative to work in a self-directed and proactive manner.

Solution driven and ability to problem solve.

Ability to maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

Exposure to conditions and/or chemicals common to agriculture and animals.

May work with hazardous chemicals.

Frequently works outside in varying terrain and may be exposed to inclement weather conditions.

May work long, irregular hours.

May operate a variety of vehicles, equipment, and trailers.

Ability to manage, mediate, and handle confrontational situations that often result from the regulatory nature of the positions.

Some work conditions require protective clothing and/or a respirator.

Ability to lift 50lbs.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in animal science, plant science, agricultural science, environmental science, or closely related field.

Valid driver’s license.

Other combinations of education or experience may be substituted on a case-by-case basis.

Benefits:

Optional membership in a Retirement System - vesting criteria applies.

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes, 75 % of the Time