Agricultural Inspector jobs in the United States

POSITION TITLE: Quality Control Inspectors

DEPARTMENT: Inspection and Compliance

LOCATION: Turlock, CA

REPORTS TO: District Supervisor

FLSA STATUS: Full-time, Temporary, Non-Exempt

COMPENSATION: $19.08/hour to $20.55/hour(Temporary Pay Rate)

The Cooperative Agricultural Support Services (CASS) is a Joint Powers Authority that was originally formed as a partnership between the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and the Counties of Yolo and Trinity. Since that time, CASS’ services have expanded throughout California to support the agricultural industry and the consumers of its products by providing human resources and administrative support services. CASS works with programs administered by CDFA, county agricultural commissioners, and other public agencies. Our current work includes:

• Agricultural Commodity Grading Program
• Grading using County, State, and Federal standards
• Emergency Pest Detection Trapping and Survey program
• Professional Develop and Educational Training

We are seeking enthusiastic Almond Quality Control inspectors to join our Inspection and Compliance Department!

Requirements

• Select and evaluate samples of various commodities.
• Grading, sorting, counting, and sampling work in connection with agricultural commodities.
• Prepare samples for titration (sugar/acid ratio) testing and pressure testing to determine degree of ripeness.
• Ripe or ripeness indicates readiness or fitness for use (Condition factor).
• Examine the quality, size and/or condition of selected samples using state, federal or industry standards and language. Language to understand include, but not limited to:
• Defects
• Damage – “Serious and Very Serious”
• Insect damage
• Scars
• Healed cuts
• Discoloration
• Accurately and carefully maintain daily reports of work including, but not limited to:
• Inspection Field Notes
• Inspection Certificates
• Inspector’s Daily Report
• Ensure provided equipment is available, in working order, and always secured.
• Participate in safety and commodity inspection training as required.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or GED Required
• Valid driver's license with safe driving record
• Demonstrate the basic knowledge of the following:
• Federal/State/Industry relations Licensee responsibilities/authority.
• Proper use of inspection equipment.
• Sampling procedures: Harvesting, packing, and/or processing methods.
• Product grading for size, quality, and condition defects.
• Application of tolerances in the applicable standard.
• Note sheet and certificate preparation.
• Must be available to travel throughout the state as required.
• Attendance, punctuality, and dependability are essential to the proper operation of CASS’s program.
• Must demonstrate the ability to interpret, understand, and conform to written and oral instructions; and contact appropriate supervision for assistance and/or guidance in performing the duties of their position.
• Excellent Oral and Written Communication skills
• Excellent Time Management and Organizational skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle conflict in a tactful and professional manner

COMPENSATION:

• Temporary, Non-Exempt, Hourly
• Benefits package including medical benefits, matching retirement contributions, and annual and holiday leave.
• Lodging, hotel, meals per diem, and travel time compensation available
• Travel and mileage reimbursement and advances provided.
• Qualified applicants with arrest and/or conviction records will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with federal and state laws.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The incumbent in this position will be required, with or without reasonable accommodation, to stand and walk constantly; Must be able to lift 30 pounds on a very frequent basis and up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis; Use repetitive arm and wrist motions; bend, stoop, twist, reach; and maintain visual acuity as well as possess normal color vision to differentiate color correctly. Drive, enter and exit the vehicle numerous times throughout the workday.
- Document inspection results and maintain detailed records of quality control activities
- Participate in internal audits and assist with external audits as needed
- Assist in the development and improvement of quality control processes

Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent; additional technical certifications are a plus
- Proven experience as a Quality Control Inspector or similar role
- Strong knowledge of quality inspection techniques and procedures
- Familiarity with FDA regulations and requirements for food or pharmaceutical products is highly desirable
- Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to identify defects or deviations from specifications
- Strong analytical skills to interpret data and make informed decisions
- Good communication skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

We offer competitive pay rates for this position.

If you are a meticulous individual with a passion for maintaining high-quality standards, we encourage you to apply for the position of Quality Control Inspector.

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary

Pay: $19.08 - $20.55 per hour

Expected hours: 40 – 60 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• 12 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Holidays
• Monday to Friday
• Night shift
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• Do you have any prior agricultural experience? If yes, please explain.
• Do you understand that the position you are applying for is a seasonal or temporary position?
• Do you have a valid driver license and acceptable driving record? Required for employees driving in the course and scope of CASS employment.

Ability to Relocate:

• Turlock, CA: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person