In a typical work setting, agricultural inspectors:

Interpersonal Relationships

• Have a high level of social contact with customers.
• Speak on the phone or in person on a daily basis.
• Are sometimes in situations where there are disagreements with farmers or processors. Sometimes they have to convince others to make changes or improvements.
• Are somewhat responsible for the health and safety of people. They monitor food safety.

Physical Work Conditions

• Work mainly outdoors while inspecting crops and livestock, but sometimes work indoors when inspecting food processing plants.
• Often are exposed to pollution, dust, food, and animal odors.
• Wear protective gear on a weekly basis.
• Are exposed to hot or cold temperatures, depending on the weather.
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• Sometimes are exposed to machinery sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable.
• Are occasionally exposed to hazardous equipment.
• Travel around and to work sites in a truck or farm vehicle.
• Sometimes work near others.

Work Performance

• Must be fully complete and accurate in their work. Errors could result in public health risks.
• Repeat the same physical and mental activities.
• Often make decisions that affect workers and the organization they work for. They usually do not consult others before deciding a course of action.
• Usually set their own tasks and goals for the day without talking to a supervisor first.
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• Often must meet daily and weekly deadlines.
• Sometimes must match the pace of their work to the speed of equipment.

Hours/Travel

• Often travel to farms and processing sites.
• May work long hours to complete inspections and reports.