How to Become An Agriculture Inspector
Agricultural inspectors are tasked with checking and analyzing the entire food and manufacturing supply chain process to ensure that the foods and agricultural goods that are being sold to the public meet the required standards.
Should I Become an Agricultural Inspector in the US?
If you are health conscious and want to ensure that people get the right foods and agricultural products for consumption, then this is a good career choice. Read the following articles for more information.
Education
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High school education or GED
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Major Requirement
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Food Science, Agriculture Science, etc.
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License/Certification
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N/A
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Experience/Training
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Depends on the job requirements.
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Key Skills
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Meticulous, Strong analytical ability, Honest, etc.
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Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National
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$47,160 (Agricultural Inspectors)
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Career Outlook (2019 – 2029)
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6% (Agricultural and Food Scientists)
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Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Outlook
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected that Agricultural and Food Scientists will enjoy a decent 6% growth in job opportunities between 2019 and 2029.
Steps to Become an Agricultural Inspector in the US
You will have to complete the following steps in order to become an agricultural inspector in the US.
Get a High School Diploma or a GED
A high school diploma or a GED is the minimum education you would need to start a career as an agricultural inspector in the US.
Go for an Advanced Degree
Some employers prefer candidates with college degrees. You can go for an Associate's Degree or even a Bachelor's Degree before looking for job as an agricultural inspector. It is advisable to get a degree in a related discipline like Food Science, Agriculture Science, or Biology, etc.
Obtain a State Certificate (If Applicable)
Some states might need you to get a state-issued license/certificate to start working as an agricultural inspector. Check your state’s requirements and complete the procedure to become an agricultural inspector.
Get an Entry-Level Job
Normally job postings for agricultural inspectors are posted on government websites so, keep checking for new job openings. Getting an entry-level job will help you get some experience that might be helpful in the future.
Duration to Become an Agricultural Inspector in the US
The duration to become an agricultural inspector in the US will vary as per different factors like education, state licensure, and on-the-job training you might need.
Requirements to Become an Agricultural Inspector in the US
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Complete high school education.
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Consider advanced education.
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Get on-the-job training (if applicable).
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Get state licensure (if applicable).
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Apply for jobs.
How Much Can I Make as an Agricultural Inspector in the US?
Agricultural Inspectors in the US earned a mean annual salary of $47,160 in the year 2019, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.