Government meat inspectors keep our meat safe to eat.
U.S. Department of Agriculture meat inspectors work to keep the food supply safe. They usually begin in the meat and poultry slaughtering or processing industries. They start work at the GS-5 or GS-7 level, for an annual salary between $31,315 and $50,431 at publication time. The requirements for a meat inspector position include a background check and physical exam, relevant experience or education and completion of the application and paperwork.
Basic Qualifications
You must have U.S. citizenship to apply as an inspector. You need to pass a background check and undergo fingerprinting to qualify for a federal suitability or security clearance. You have to be available to work varied shifts and overtime.
Physical Requirements
You need to pass a physical exam and demonstrate physical and mental fitness sufficient for the job. For example, you have to be able to walk on slippery areas and climb stairs. You have to be able to lift 44 pounds and exhibit full range of motion and strength in your hands and arms. You should have good eyesight, color vision and hearing. You need to be able to withstand the rigors of repetitive tasks and dangerous work.
Education or Experience for GS-5 Level
You can qualify at the lower GS-5 level based on your education only or your experience only. To qualify by experience, you must document a minimum of one year full-time relevant work experience after age 16. Examples of qualifying work include food processing in a slaughterhouse or meat processing plant, butchering, testing food in a laboratory or working in a commercial kitchen. If you wish to qualify by education, you need an accredited bachelor's degree that includes 12 semester hours or 18 quarter units of related classes in biological science or other sciences. The government requires transcripts documenting your education.
GS-7 Level
You can qualify for the GS-7 level only through experience. Education does not qualify you to apply at this higher level. You need a minimum of one year or the equivalent of full-time work inspecting food for a state, the military or the federal government. The qualifying work must have a regulatory function.
Other Qualifications
In addition to the basic requirements, the government will rank applicants based on other qualities such as good work habits, strong communication skills and ability to make decisions.
Application Requirements
You can apply online at USA Jobs. First submit your resume, which you can create with the USA Jobs resume tool. Then fill out the occupational questionnaire, preferably online. Send in supporting information, including, for example, your college transcripts. Veterans can receive job preference by turning in forms DD-214 and SF-15 and documentation of their disability rating. The USDA prefers online applications but will send a packet if you fax your name and address to 612-370-2060 with an application request.
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