Job Description

The approximately 345 employees of the (IDALS) (IDALS) are responsible for a wide range of programs that affect the quality of life of every Iowan. Both Iowans living on the farm and those in our towns and cities are impacted almost daily by the work of the Department.
The is recruiting for a part-time Meat Inspector for the Buena Vista County region in northwest Iowa. The successful candidate will inspect locker plants, small packing plants, and any other establishment in which animals are slaughtered and/or processed for resale to the public to ensure compliance with the Iowa Meat and Poultry Inspection Act. This is a part-time position with a flexible schedule. Hours for this position range from 0-40 per week, with an average of 19 hours per week, and a maximum of 988 total hours per state fiscal year.
Essential duties:
Conducts antemortem and postmortem inspections of livestock and poultry, using senses and required hand tools to examine animals for disease.
Travels to and conducts walk-through inspections of regulated facilities, ensuring compliance with sanitation standards.
Conducts examinations of finished and in-process products to ensure wholesomeness and compliance with product labeling standards.
Reviews records generated by inspected facilities to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and facility programs.
Enters inspection results daily into designated computer system and prepares non-compliance reports and memoranda as needed to communicate findings.
Communicates with regulated facilities regarding inspection results, regulatory requirements and changes to policies; conducts outreach to new facilities to aid compliance with regulatory requirements.
Additional requirements: Meat Inspectors must maintain a valid driver's license for statewide travel to conduct inspections and must successfully complete the USDA-FSIS Food Inspector Livestock and Inspection Methods courses within six months of hire. Meat inspection work frequently exposes inspectors to hot, cold, wet, or slippery conditions. Inspectors must be able to handle knives and other tools effectively, and must have full use of their senses, including sight, hearing, touch, and smell. Inspectors are also subject to a background check required for access to federal computer systems.
The preferred candidate will possess a background in the meat industry, food industry, regulatory work or agriculture, with relevant experience and/or education in food safety, animal health, agriculture, or related areas. The candidate will demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills, and will be able to both work independently and establish strong professional relationships with industry representatives and colleagues alike.
Applicants may attach a cover letter and resume to their application. Application materials can be uploaded in the Attachments Section during the application process.
As a part-time employee of IDALS you are a State of Iowa employee and eligible for a benefits package that includes:

• IPERS (Iowa Public Employee Retirement System) which is a fixed income or defined benefit pension plan.
• Paid leave includes annual leave, sick leave and holiday pay prorated based on the number of hours worked.
• Reimbursement for driving miles.

To learn more about benefits available as a State of Iowa Employee click here to visit the web page.
E-Verify and Right to Work: The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit .
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:
1) Graduation from high school, GED, or equivalency, and experience equal to two years of fulltime work in livestock or poultry slaughter, processing, or marketing; meat and poultry inspection; or other food-related industry or regulatory work.
2) Thirty semester hours of education from an accredited college or university with a minimum of six semester hours in any of the following major areas: veterinary medicine, animal husbandry, animal science, agricultural business, livestock management, zoology, biology, or a closely related major.
For additional information, please click on this .
Additional Qualification Requirements
USDA courses in slaughtering and processing must be completed before inspection duties begin. The USDA poultry course must also be completed during the first year of employment.
Why Choose the State of Iowa?
At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.
Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:
Competitive Compensation:
Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.
Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly . Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.
Health and Wellness:
Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
Retirement Planning:
We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. .
Paid Time Off:
Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.
Professional Development:
Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.
Join Us - Elevate Your Career:
Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

Skills Required