Commodities Inspector

Commodities Inspector

The Commodities Inspector is responsible for performing inspection, sampling, testing, and preparation of bulk commodities—including petroleum products, minerals, grains, grain by-products, food oils, and chemicals—during transfer, loading, unloading, and processing operations. This role ensures adherence to client specifications, industry standards, and company procedures, while maintaining safety, accuracy, and integrity throughout the process.

Key Responsibilities

Inspection & Sampling

• Conduct physical inspection, sampling, gauging, and temperature measurements of vessel tanks, shore tanks, rail cars, barges, containers, and trucks using methods compliant with API and internal procedures.
• Collect samples of petroleum, grains, food oils, chemicals, and raw minerals at various stages of processing and transportation.
• Ensure all samples are accurately labeled with identifying data including location, date, time, and product details.
• Supervise and verify the loading and tallying of agricultural & mineral commodities during transfer operations.

Documentation & Reporting

• Complete all required inspection reports and documentation using proprietary systems such as the Ship Inspection Report (SIR) and Site Acceptance Test (SAT).
• Take detailed notes and photographs during inspections and prepare reports in compliance with internal and regulatory standards.
• Communicate regularly with office staff regarding job status, delays, safety concerns, or operational issues.

Equipment & Safety Compliance

• Maintain, clean, and organize all inspection, sampling, and preparation equipment before and after use.
• Conduct routine and preventive maintenance on sample preparation equipment.
• Consistently wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all local, federal, and company safety protocols.
• Operate to the highest standards of ethics in accordance with the SGS Code of Integrity and professional conduct.

Collaboration & Additional Duties

• Work cooperatively with clients, vessel personnel, US Customs, government agents, and other stakeholders during inspection and sampling operations.
• Provide support with general labor, back-office tasks, or housekeeping as assigned based on business needs.
• Stay updated on and comply with the latest industry regulations, client requirements, and internal procedures.
• Ad hoc projects and extended hours may be assigned and required

Required Qualifications & Skills

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required)
  • (Associate degree in a technical field is a plus)
• Ability to pass applicable certification exams and training programs
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standardized procedures
• Willingness to work in varied environments (e.g., ports, terminals, labs, field sites)
• Ability to lift, carry, and operate sampling/testing equipment
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills

SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.