GRAIN INSPECTOR I

DEFINITION

This is entry-level work in the grain inspection program of the Department of Agriculture.

An employee in this class obtains samples of grain and/or processed grain commodities, checkweighs and checkloads processed grain commodities, and prepares samples for grading. Work is performed under close supervision from a higher-level Grain Inspector or other designated superior.

Any one position may not involve all of the specified duties or knowledges, skills and abilities, nor are the listed examples exhaustive.

EXAMPLES OF WORK

Inspects railcars, barges, trucks and/or other carriers to ensure they are in proper condition for loading grain and free from leaks, odors, infestation, etc.

Obtains representative samples of grain and/or processed grain commodities utilizing federal grain inspection procedures as specified by the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) and the Agricultural Marketing Act (AMA).

Checkweighs and checkloads processed grain commodities in accordance with established procedures.

Prepares grain samples for grading by performing the tests necessary to determine moisture content, test weight, dockage and presence of foreign material.

Performs specialized tests, such as aflatoxin and protein analysis; calibrates equipment, grinds samples, reads results and enters readings on official certificates.

Observes and verifies the weighing of barges and railcars by grain company employees.

Completes sample pan tickets and work records.

Maintains file samples of grain and processed grain commodities and disposes of when authorized.

Maintains clean work area and equipment.

May study grain-grading techniques and perform simple grain-grading functions during slack periods.

Performs other related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Working knowledge of state and federal laws relating to grain sampling.

Working knowledge of the policies, rules and regulations established by the Department of Agriculture with respect to grain sampling.

Ability to operate a variety of sampling devices.

Ability to adapt to and work in an environment that may include factors such as noise, foul air, grain dust, inclement weather, extreme heights and moving machinery.

Ability to perceive distinctions in grain color and grain odor.

Ability to maintain basic records.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, grain businesses, other professionals in the grain trade and the general public.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

(The following entrance requirements are used to admit or reject applicants for merit system examinations, or may be used to evaluate applicants for employment in positions not requiring selection from merit system registers. When applicable, equivalent substitution will be allowed for deficiencies in experience or education.)

Completion of the eighth school grade and one year of work experience. (Additional work experience may be substituted for deficiencies in the required education.)

OR

Possession of a high school diploma or a GED certificate.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to obtain USDA/FGIS license to sample grain, USDA/AMA license to sample processed grain commodities, and USDA/FGIS license to perform technician functions (moisture, test weight, dockage, and foreign material) within established timeframes.

(Eff. 10/1/92)