GRAIN INSPECTOR II

DEFINITION

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

An employee in this class obtains samples of grain and/or processed commodities, checkweighs and checkloads processed grain commodities, prepares samples for grading, and performs less complex grading functions. An employee in this class receives training and acquires licensure to perform grading procedures of a more advanced and diversified nature. Sampling work is performed under general supervision from a higher-level Grain Inspector or other designated superior. Grading work is performed under close supervision in the early stages of training; as the employee becomes more experienced, demonstrates proficiency and acquires licensure, the level of supervision becomes more general.

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 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 Services (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.

Receives training in grain-grading techniques and procedures from a higher-level Grain Inspector.

Under close supervision, examines grain samples for discoloration, infestation, and sour or musty odor; separates and weighs damaged grain, debris and foreign material; computes dockage and enters on work record.

Under close supervision, assigns grain grades based upon established federal grain inspection standards.

Performs other related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Considerable knowledge of state and federal laws, policies, rules and regulations relating to grain sampling.

Working knowledge of state and federal laws, policies, rules and regulations relating to grain grading.

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 learn and apply grain-grading techniques and procedures.

Ability to perform detailed and repetitive work in accordance with exacting standards.

Ability to perceive distinctions in grain color and grain odor.

Ability to maintain basic records and perform simple calculations.

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.)

One year of grain-sampling experience with an official grain inspection agency and possession of a high school diploma or a GED certificate. (One year of work experience may be substituted for the required high school education.)

OR

One year as a Grain Inspector I in the Missouri Department of Agriculture.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Possession of 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). Ability to obtain USDA/FGIS licenses to grade grain within established timeframes.

(Eff. 10/1/92)