TDA - RG 3 - Inspector - Pesticides (57492)
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Houston, TX 77023
$4,150 a month
Description
Inspector – Pesticides
WHAT YOU’LL DO
The Inspector – Pesticides will perform moderately complex regulatory inspection work for the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) to contribute to the enforcement agricultural laws and regulations for consumer protection in the State of Texas. You will assist in completing case preparations and may testify on hearings on violations of Consumer Protection laws. You will work under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
This is an entry-level position with increasing responsibilities as training progresses. Newly hired inspectors are required to complete trainings on different types of inspections which will assist them in learning regulations, operating procedures, and other job responsibilities.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Perform entry level pesticide inspections and complete accurate and detailed reports to ensure compliance with laws and regulations
Respond to and investigate agricultural pesticide complaints involving allegations of noncompliance with the Agriculture Code and their respective rules and complete case investigation reports with data integrity and properly gather and document data and records of violations to include interviewing witnesses and collecting and submitting samples.
Audit sales records and issue Stop Sales.
Complete travel vouchers and mileage reports; complete various weekly and end-of-month reports.
Coordinate and ensure that the Regional Director and Assistant Regional Director are kept informed of all issues related to the inspections.
Represent the agency in a positive manner when dealing with constituents.
Train on and become proficient in the use of Performing Inspections, Enforcement and Recruitment (PIER), Bringing Resource Integration and Data Together for Greater Efficiency (BRIDGE) and business intelligence reports.
QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION
Bachelor’s degree
Must reside in Wharton, Colorado, Jackson, Goliad, Gonzales, or Victoria County.
Valid Texas driver’s license and an acceptable driving record.
Educational Substitution: A high school diploma and two years full-time work experience related to the essential duties may substitute for a degree.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Knowledge of laws, codes, standards, and regulations related to the area of responsibility; of the principles and methods of field inspection; and of business practices in regulated occupations and industries.
Skill in conducting inspections; in providing customer service excellence to both internal and external customers; in determining proper courses of action; in using instruments or tools necessary to perform inspections; in using a computer and applicable programs and databases, and in maintaining records and written reports.
Ability to prepare reports; to interpret laws and regulations; to gather and analyze data; to communicate effectively, orally and in writing; interact effectively with co-workers, supervisors and the public; to exercise sound judgment and discretion; and to maintain the highest level of confidentiality.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
This position requires extensive work outdoors and exposure to extremes temperatures and humidity; extensive moving and remaining stationary; walking and standing for extended periods; slippery and uneven walking surfaces; pulling and pushing; kneeling, stooping and bending; reaching overhead/above the shoulder; safely lifting and/or operating equipment weighing up to 50 pounds; safely handling hazardous and/or flammable materials; exposure to live insects and animals; and exposure to dust. Requires safely operating an assigned TDA or USDA vehicle and driving for long distances; working extended hours and some evenings and weekends, as needed; and daily and overnight travel (up to 50%**). Requires wearing protective clothing and safety equipment, including a half-face respirator when necessary.
TELEWORK & WORK HOURS
The agency does not offer telework. TDA employees are required to be physically present for work.
The agency’s core business hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. TDA also provides limited customer service between 6:00-8:00 a.m. and 5:00-6:00 p.m.
H-1B Visa Sponsorship
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa.
BENEFITS
The State of Texas offers a variety of benefits for you and your family that are comprehensive and, on average, make up about one-third of total compensation. Benefits include:
- A valid government-issued driver’s license, which is recognized by the Texas Department of Public Safety and in good standing, and an acceptable driving record are required. TDA will verify this information with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Applicants with a driver’s license not issued by the State of Texas should obtain and be prepared to provide a copy of their current driving record on or before their first day
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO): TDA is an equal employment opportunity (EEO) employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, military status, or protected activity. TDA provides accommodations for persons with disabilities in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act. If you need help with the employment process or require other accommodations, please contact the Human Resources office for assistance at (512) 463-7423.
TDA participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security, with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
Military and Former Foster Child Employment Preference: TDA complies with the provisions of the veterans and former foster child employment preference acts. Please contact our Human Resources-Veterans Liaison at (512) 463-7454 for assistance.