Processed Foods Inspector                                                                                              #00113 – Richmond

(Agricultural Specialist IV, Pay Band 4)

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Division of Commodity Services has an exciting career opportunity for a Processed Foods Inspector. We are seeking a qualified, customer service-oriented team player who, under the direction of the Fruit and Vegetable Services Program Manager, is responsible for supporting domestic and exporting needs of Virginia agricultural products through official grading, inspection and certification of more than 150 types of processed fruits and vegetables. While the successful candidate will work in a Processed Foods Laboratory, which samples and grades product requiring official USDA certification to comply with Federal/State and private contract specifications, the individual will also be required to conduct field work around the Commonwealth. The successful candidate will perform lot sampling, condition of container inspections, checkloading, case stamping, in-plant sampling and will conduct plant sanitation inspections. This position requires routine interaction with Virginia’s processed product industries, as well as with federal/state officials to communicate program services and regulatory requirements. Throughout the year, the position will provide support to the officer-in-charge of the Laboratory with daily routine office activities. Restricted position with funding availability based on industry need.

Physical Demands/Conditions of Employment: Position requires significant travel, both day and overnight, with occasional short-term duty assignments away from the office. Position also requires a flexible work schedule with irregular work hours during the week as well as on weekends and holidays. Selected individual must be able to meet the physical demands which include working in and around a noisy environment that includes dust and machinery and in extreme heat and/or cold. Position requires prolonged periods of driving, standing, walking, lifting 75 pounds or more, reaching, and bending/stooping. Selected person must also be able to distinguish colors and smells and 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. A REAL ID is required to access federal facilities. Finally, the successful individual must be able to qualify for and maintain a USDA License of inspection and certification of processed products within one year of employment. Final candidate must successfully complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of agricultural commodities or food science and technology, ideally in the fruit and vegetable industry. Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, apply, and explain rules and regulations and to collect and analyze data; to prepare reports; to organize, plan and work independently with limited supervision; to work in a fast-paced environment; to resolve problems; to  provide exceptional customer service; and to work within a team environment. Effective oral and written communication skills are needed along with the ability to maintain professional working relationships with co-workers, management, and industry. Computer proficiency. H.S. Diploma/GED required. Prefer: Coursework or degree in agriculture, food science, chemistry, biology or related field preferred along with knowledge of USDA Commodity Standards. Experience related to the grading/certification of processed food products or quality assurance programs also preferred. An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education & experience. Hiring Salary Range: $38,894 – $42,000 annually. Excellent State Benefits.

To be considered for this position, you must apply online at https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/ by 11:59 PM  EST/EDT on October 3, 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.