Get your foot in the door for a permanent Federal job! The U.S. Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for permanent positions to be filled immediately. If you are selected, you will be trained to be a USDA Agricultural Commodity Grader to inspect fruits, vegetables, and specialty crops in Ellsworth ME, Kansas City, MO, Hart, MI, or Salem, OR.
DUTIES
As a USDA Agricultural Commodity Grader, you will be trained to perform the necessary duties listed below.
For fresh fruits and vegetables and related products:
Selects representative samples from the product lots in accordance with prescribed sampling and plans.
Inspects products to determine the quality, condition, and/or compliance with U.S. Grade Standards or stated contract specifications. Typically, this requires considering such factors as:
- product size, shape, color, and similar quality factors;
- product maturity, firmness, breakdown or decay, bruising, and similar condition factors; and
- quantity, packaging, or similar conditions which are common in contract specifications.
Prepares inspection reports based on examination of product. This is done through application of official grade standards or contract specifications to determine product’s grade, quality and/or condition.
When the assignment involves products with which the employee is thoroughly knowledgeable, the incumbent applies the official standards and regulations to determine the product’s grade and/or condition and directly issues the certificate using the FEIRS software on the ruggedized laptop issued to each grader, but only after first learning the certification process utilizing handwritten note sheets and certificates. Verbally explains inspection determinations to appropriate industry employees.
In difficult or unusual cases, prepares a draft certificate with a tentative determination and submits it for higher-level review (i.e., a supervisor, inspector-in-charge or senior grader) before issuance.
As assigned, performs inspections and grading of products with which the employee is unfamiliar under the guidance of a senior grader, inspector-in-charge or supervisor.
For processed fruits and vegetables, related products and/or nuts:
Draws and examines representative samples of products and determines grade, condition and wholesomeness in accordance with official grade standards, buyer-seller contracts or other written specifications.
Makes observations to determine if plant facilities, operating methods, processing equipment and personnel are in compliance with SCI sanitation requirements and FDA regulations. If the plant or operation is not in compliance, the grader reports this to plant management and higher SCI Division officials.
Observes the raw product material to establish the suitability for processing and advises plant management of the results. If/when corrective action by the plant is necessary, inspector monitors and assesses effectiveness.
Performs a limited number of analytical determinations by prescribed methods and techniques, often under the direction of an inspector of higher grade.
Instructs technicians and aids in proper grading and inspection techniques.
May serve as a lead grader at a processing plant, peanut buying point and/or shelling facility and may coordinate activities, schedules and work assignments for other inspection personnel assigned to the facility.
May monitor processing plant operations, product grade evaluation, and quality control
procedures; provides technical assistance as necessary.
QUALIFICATIONS
- U.S. citizen with a valid driver’s license who is at least 18 years old.
- Completed a 4-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor’s degree in any field OR have 3 years of general work experience in the public or private sector that demonstrates your ability to: (1) analyze problems and recognize solutions; (2) plan and organize work; and (3) communicate effectively orally and in writing.
- Pass a physical examination from your doctor after being selected to ensure you can safely perform the duties of this position, which includes the ability to lift and carry objects that weigh up to 50 pounds, climb stairs and ladders, and work safely in a plant environment.