Seasonal H-Inspector - Agricultural Outreach Representative

Job Title

Seasonal H-2A Housing Inspector

The position supports the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) in ensuring employer‑provided housing for H‑2A agricultural workers meets all federal and state health, safety, and occupancy standards. Inspectors work out of DEED offices in Alexandria, Bemidji, Detroit Lakes, Hutchinson, Mankato, Marshall, Moorhead, or Willmar, and travel daily to rural and remote worksites across Minnesota. The appointment is seasonal, typically from May 1 to February 28 each year, and is telework eligible.

• Conduct pre‑occupancy and follow‑up inspections of farm worker housing.
• Evaluate housing conditions and identify deficiencies.
• Prepare detailed inspection reports, citing relevant standards and recommending corrective actions.
• Communicate required corrective actions to agricultural employers in a professional, regulatory, and culturally sensitive manner.
• Work independently in the field, coordinate with state and federal partners, maintain accurate inspection records, and support audits and monitoring activities.

• One (1) year of experience conducting inspections or compliance reviews in housing, safety, environmental health, agriculture, construction, building codes, public health, or an equivalent field.
• Associate’s degree in construction management, building inspection, building technology, environmental health, or public health may substitute six (6) months of experience; a bachelor’s degree substitutes for one (1) year of experience.
• Experience interpreting and applying regulations, codes, or standards, such as safety regulations, housing/health codes, or federal program requirements.
• Experience preparing detailed inspection reports, documentation, or compliance findings, including citing standards and recommending corrective actions.
• Experience communicating regulatory or technical information clearly to the public, employers, or partner agencies.
• Experience working independently in the field, managing schedules, and completing assignments with minimal supervision.
• Valid driver's license and insurance or reliable transportation.

• Experience with the H‑2A program, temporary labor camp standards, or federal housing regulations.
• Experience using electronic reporting systems or case management systems for documenting inspections or compliance reviews.
• Experience working with agricultural employers, farm worker communities, or culturally diverse populations.
• Experience in public safety, environmental health, building inspection, or fire/life‑safety evaluations.
• Demonstrated cultural responsiveness and ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

• Pass a background check, which may include a criminal background check, employment records check (current and former State employees only), employment reference check, conflict of interest review, and driver’s license and records check.
• Not eligible for work visa sponsorship; applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• 12 paid holidays per year.
• Low‑cost health, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans, including fertility care, diabetes care, and dental/orthodontic care for adults and children.
• Six weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children.
• Pension plan providing income after at least three years of service.
• Employer‑paid life insurance.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance.
• Tax‑free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care.
• Training, classes, and professional development opportunities.

Minnesota state agencies are equal‑opportunity, affirmative‑action, and veteran‑friendly employers. We are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and encourage individuals of color, Indigenous communities, LGBTQIAP+ community members, persons with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and related disabilities), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or activity in a Human Rights Commission.

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651‑259‑3637 or email careers.us. If you need assistance accessing online application tools, contact Karen Lilledahl ledahl.us to indicate the support required.