Agricultural Technician

Position Title

Montana Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for Agriculture Inspector positions in Toston & Townsend. Recruitment is open until filled, with first review on January 6, 2026.

This position performs agricultural inspections of potato tubers according to established schedules. This involves application of agricultural sampling techniques to ensure the validity of samples and results. The season typically runs from February to June.

• Inspectors collect agricultural samples of potato tubers, ensuring representative sampling and inspections of potato tubers to determine overall quality and grade for certification purposes.
• Inspect representative samples and compare characteristics (e.g., size, shape, decay, soft rot) with grading standards and tolerance levels to determine overall grade.
• Compile and calculate numerical grading results to determine overall grade and issue official certificates declaring the grade of the potatoes.
• Maintain regular communications with growers to assess inspection needs, respond to questions, and provide advice and assistance related to shipping certification.
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Travel by personal vehicle to assigned inspection locations; mileage will be reimbursed at established government rates.
• Document and report all growers, locations, miles, and time daily to record inspection activities and provide information for wages and expenses incurred.
• Maintain records of inspections, certifications, and related program data to ensure accuracy and availability of current information.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Certification in required discipline or ability to become certified within the given timeframe.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to qualify for federal/state license for inspection of potatoes; training will be provided to successful applicants.
• Ability to apply state and federal regulations, policies and procedures governing inspection and sampling.
• Ability to communicate effectively and diplomatically both verbally and in writing.
• Initiative to work in a self‑directed and proactive manner.
• Solution‑driven with ability to problem‑solve.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the agricultural community, coworkers, and the general public.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow oral and written instructions.
• Successful applicant must pass all Department of Agriculture specific background checks relevant to each position.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. with or without a reasonable accommodation and work in extreme climate environments.

Retirement System – vesting criteria applies.

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Number of Openings:
5. Employee Status:
Seasonal (less than 6 months).

Schedule:

Variable.

Shift: Day Job. Travel:
Yes, 15% of the Time. Primary

Location:

Toston. Other Locations:
Townsend. Agency:
Department of Agriculture. Posting Date:
December 8, 2025. Closing Date:
Ongoing.

Contact Name:
Traci Merzlak. Contact Email:
Traci.merzlak. Contact Phone: 406‑444‑3145.

State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.