Livestock Grader #W0113

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Lynchburg, VA

3d•$18 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services seeks a highly motivated individual to provide livestock grading, evaluation, and market news reporting services to livestock producers in the Southeast/Central Region of Virginia. This position will primarily support markets in Lynchburg and Moneta, with assignments at additional regional markets as program needs dictate. The selected candidate will work as part of a team with existing staff to deliver consistent, official, and unbiased livestock grading, evaluation, and market reporting services in accordance with USDA livestock grading standards. These services support Virginia producers, livestock markets, and include on-farm evaluations for tele-auction and board sales. A state vehicle will be provided for official business use only and must remain within the assigned territory when not in use. This position requires daily travel and a flexible schedule, including irregular work hours such as early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Schedules are subject to change based on program needs or unforeseen circumstances. Occasional travel to other areas of the Commonwealth may be required to support program business needs.

Requirements

Working knowledge of the principles and practices of animal agriculture and livestock production.
Experience working with and being around all classes of livestock.
Knowledge of and ability to interpret USDA Grade Standards for livestock and make application decisions based on these standards.
Ability to work effectively with the general public, customers, agricultural community, and all levels of management and industry representatives.
Ability to handle high stress situations effectively.
Ability to work independently and make decisions with limited supervision.
Ability to work within a team environment.
Proficiency using email and standard business software such as MS Office Suite, including Excel and Word.
Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Ability to work in close proximity to all classes of livestock, especially cattle.
Ability to work in dusty, muddy, and noisy conditions.
Ability to stand for long periods of time.
Ability to drive.
Ability to perform some repetitive motions.
Ability to work outdoors in extreme cold or heat.
Ability to travel in all areas of the region.
Ability to work irregular hours, including early mornings, late evenings, holidays, Saturdays and occasionally overnight.
Ability to meet the qualifications for the USDA Live Grading Certification within six-months of hire.
Must have (or be eligible for) and maintain a valid driver’s license.
Must have a driving record that reflects a sense of responsibility for highway safety.
H.S. Diploma/GED required.
Fingerprint-based criminal background check required.
Must be able to provide acceptable documents in accordance with Form I-9.
Must be eligible to work in the U.S. (VDACS does not offer sponsorship).

Nice To Haves

Combination of related education, training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Responsibilities

Provide livestock grading, evaluation, and market news reporting services to livestock producers.
Support markets in Lynchburg and Moneta, with assignments at additional regional markets as program needs dictate.
Deliver consistent, official, and unbiased livestock grading, evaluation, and market reporting services in accordance with USDA livestock grading standards.
Support Virginia producers and livestock markets.
Conduct on-farm evaluations for tele-auction and board sales.
Utilize a provided state vehicle for official business use within the assigned territory.
Travel daily and maintain a flexible schedule with irregular work hours.
Travel occasionally to other areas of the Commonwealth to support program business needs.