Agricultural Inspector
Agricultural inspectors examine agricultural commodities, processing equipment, and facilities to ensure compliance with government regulations regarding health, safety, quality, and labeling. They inspect livestock, crops, and processed food products and issue citations for violations. The BLS reports a median salary of $46,840 with 2% projected growth. Many positions are with the USDA or state departments of agriculture.
A Day in the Life
A typical day starts by driving to a poultry processing plant for a routine inspection. The inspector reviews sanitation records, checks equipment temperatures, and observes processing procedures for compliance. Mid-morning involves collecting random product samples to send to the lab for testing. After lunch, the inspector visits a grain elevator to check storage conditions and pest control measures. Late afternoon is spent writing inspection reports, documenting any violations, and scheduling follow-up visits.
Key Stats
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Salary Range
Entry: $34,000
Median: $46,840
Senior: $70,000
Job Growth