Food Safety Specialist                                                         #00309 – Hampton/Newport News

(Environmental Specialist I, Pay Band 4)

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is seeking a self-motivated person to become part of our Food Safety team. This position is responsible for the evaluation of food processes and the enforcement of the Virginia Food and Drink Laws and related federal and state regulations. Duties include evaluating the condition of food processing facilities relative to food safety; assisting new and existing food processing technologies and food labeling at manufacturing operations and retail food establishments; investigating complaints; conducting food borne illness investigations; collecting official samples of food and food related products; reviewing new food business proposals and assisting in the development of safe food processes; and evaluating and interpreting nutritional related claims for foods and dietary supplements. This position is being re-announced; previous applicants do not need to re-apply.

The selected individual will establish and work from a home office under the guidance and direction of a regional field office and will be required to live in or convenient to the assigned territory in the cities of Hampton and Newport News. The home office must have reliable access to a network for mobile communications. The use of a state vehicle will be provided for business use only.

QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of food safety practices and principles; food processing theory and practices; and of dietary supplement safety, structure function claims and labeling. Fundamental knowledge of computer applications. Demonstrated ability to work both independently and in a team environment; to effectively communicate, both written and orally; to interpret and apply applicable laws and regulations; to make autonomous decisions and take appropriate actions in diverse circumstances and environments; to be self-motivated; to effectively plan and organize work activities; and to provide exceptional customer service to both internal and external clients. Additionally, the demonstrated ability to respond to emergency situations and other assigned duties during both traditional and non-traditional work periods is needed. Good visual acuity and the ability to walk, bend, stretch, crouch and lift light loads up to 40 lbs is needed. Must have (or be eligible for) and maintain a valid driver’s license and have a driving record that reflects a sense of responsibility for highway safety. The selected individual will be responsible for obtaining and maintaining a commissioner with Pocket Credentials as an official of the Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and within 18 months of hire will be responsible for becoming and maintaining Standardized for Retail inspections credentials. HS Diploma/GED required. Prefer: Degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Health or a related field. Related experience and knowledge of pertinent food laws and regulations also preferred. An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience. Hiring Salary Range: $42,000- $55,000 annually. Excellent State Benefits.

The final candidate must successfully complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

To be considered for this position, you must apply online at https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/ by 11:59 PM  EST/EDT on December 1, 2022. For more information or assistance, you may contact the Human Resources Office,  Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, VA 23219; Telephone: (804) 371-8066; TDD/TTY: VA Relay 711 or 800-828-1120; E-mail hr.vdacs@vdacs.virginia.gov. VDACS is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse workforce.