Livestock Inspector Billings 56300104

The Department of Livestock is a small state agency of about 135 employees spread across the state of Montana. The head of the agency is not a director but a seven-member board made up of active livestock producers appointed by the Governor. Our department has many long-term employees who are passionate about protecting and serving the livestock industry in Montana. We often promote employees from within our agency.

WHAT THIS POSITION DOES: • Inspects livestock at livestock markets to document brands and other identifying characteristics. This may be required to be done with a handheld computer device. • Collects and reviews paperwork from the livestock owner to ensure that ownership of livestock is clear and correct. • Issues inspections and permits for animals moving or changing ownership near the livestock market. • Provides clear instruction and clarification to producers when they have questions about Montana livestock regulations. • This position reports to the Market Supervisor and does not supervise others.

Special Information: This position may have physical demands related to standing and walking for long periods of time (may work as much as 10 hours or more); the ability to handle livestock, move quickly, climb fences, etc. in order to avoid serious injury. Ability to operate motor vehicle safely. Working conditions sometimes involve continued exposure to extreme weather conditions, dust, and unpleasant conditions encountered in stockyards, along with the inherent risk of injury associated with handling livestock in close proximity.

HOW TO APPLY: Submit a state application along with answers to the supplemental questions listed below. Supplemental questions should be attached to your application as a relevant document. Supplemental Question: 1. How do your qualifications and experience, including your cattle-handling experience, directly correlate to the duties of this position? 2. Why would you be the best candidate for the job?


Qualifications:

APPLICANTS FOR THE MARKET INSPECTOR POSITION MUST BE: • Experienced in quiet, safe, and efficient cattle-handling on foot and in close proximity to cattle. • Able to spend most of the day standing and walking, outside, whatever the weather. It’s not uncommon for an inspector to have 20,000 steps in before noon on a busy sale day. • Committed to maintaining a high standard of performance. The work that inspectors do protects the livestock industry from theft and disease. • Patient, clear and tactful when explaining regulations to the public. Livestock laws can be confusing and frustrating, and helping folks understand them is a big priority. • Willing, versatile, positive and kind. • Able to operate a personal computer and other handheld electronic devices. • Able to operate a motor vehicle. Applicants must pass a background check, have a clean driving record, and possess a valid MT driver’s license. The necessary knowledge, skills and abilities are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school, extensive experience handling cattle, and the ability to demonstrate safe work habits.

Eligible Training Assignment:

13.98