Animal Health and Dairy Inspector

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Southborough, MA

15d

About The Position

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is seeking an Animal Health Inspector. The inspector divides time between dairy farm inspections and animal health inspections at facilities that house livestock or other domestic animals, including dairy farms, pet shops, stables, barns, farms, animal shelters, and animal rescue organizations. The role includes inspecting premises, animals, and relevant equipment; collecting samples; preparing reports; and following up with owners and the Division to support compliance and enforcement when necessary. The inspector schedules routine visits within an assigned territory and remains available to respond to complaints and emergencies. The role also involves attending meetings and hearings, maintaining a state vehicle and its records, and traveling to varied settings in all weather conditions. Inspectors use professional judgment to determine when to involve municipal, state, or federal officials, veterinary or technical professionals, or humane agencies. Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume with their application. First consideration will be given to applicants who apply within the first 14 days.

Requirements

At least two years of full-time or equivalent part-time technical experience in pesticide regulation, pest control, providing technical guidance on proper pesticide use, environmental protection, or management, or an equivalent combination of experience and qualifying education.
An associate's degree in agriculture, forestry, environmental protection, chemistry, biology, environmental or sanitary engineering, or a related field may substitute for one year of required experience.
A bachelor's degree or higher in agriculture, forestry, environmental protection, chemistry, biology, environmental or sanitary engineering, or a related field may substitute for the required experience. Education toward a degree is prorated according to completed requirements.
Current and valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's License.
Depending on assignment, eligibility for appointment as a special police officer under Chapter 147 of the Massachusetts General Laws.
Knowledge of the care and handling of domestic livestock and other domestic animals, including dogs and cats.
Knowledge of appropriate management practices for livestock and other domestic animals.
Knowledge of appropriate feeds and their nutritional values for different species.
Knowledge of biosecurity principles and practices for domestic species.
Knowledge of appropriate facility cleaning and disinfection principles and practices.
Skill in communicating rules, regulations, statutes, and concerns about noncompliance.
Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
Ability to handle, position, and restrain live small and large animals.
Ability to gain understanding from the regulated community through verbal communication.
Ability to gather information by questioning and observing individuals and examining records and documents.
Ability to use investigative techniques to obtain, verify, or clarify information.
Ability to accurately record orally provided information, communicate clearly in writing, maintain accurate records, and prepare general reports.
Ability to deal tactfully with others and establish and maintain harmonious working relationships.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion when handling confidential information.
Ability to remain calm in stressful and emergency situations.
Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work situations.

Responsibilities

Inspect licensed dairy farms and identify and report unlicensed facilities.
Assess dairy farm cleanliness, sanitation, biosecurity, and animal management practices.
Inspect animals for illness, infectious or contagious disease, injury, or other infirmity.
Inspect milking equipment for sanitary conditions and adequate functionality.
Complete official inspection forms and file findings with the Division; reports may be reviewed by the FDA.
Collect samples for testing, transport them to a laboratory, and communicate with the Division about test results.
Follow up with farmers and other animal owners to address violations and regain compliance.
Recommend and assist with enforcement actions when compliance is not achieved.
Inspect stables, barns, farms, pet shops, animal shelters, animal rescue organizations, and other facilities that house domestic animals or livestock.
Restrain animals and collect samples from livestock and poultry for diagnostic testing.
Prepare comprehensive reports of inspection findings for the Division.
Schedule routine visits within an assigned territory and remain available for complaints and emergency responses.
Use professional judgment to determine when to seek assistance from public officials, veterinary or technical professionals, or humane agencies.
Attend meetings and hearings related to the regulated community.
Maintain the state vehicle, including required records and scheduled repairs.
Travel to inspect licensees and other settings, including retail stores, barns, and farm fields, in all weather conditions.