Agricultural Inspector I

Position Information

Start your career with the Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures as an Agricultural Inspector I.

Starting salary up to $42.05/hour ($87,763/year) and a competitive total compensation package!*

The Agriculture/Weights and Measures Department is currently recruiting to fill multiple Agricultural Inspector positions at either the I, II, or III levels. If you are interested in being considered at the different levels of this opportunity, you must apply to the separate concurrent recruitments being conducted for each level.

The Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures is a small but dedicated team committed to protecting Sonoma County's agriculture, environment, economy, and community. Through education, outreach, inspections, and enforcement, the department administers state and local laws that safeguard agricultural resources, promote public and environmental health, and ensure fairness in the marketplace.

Agriculture is one of Sonoma County's largest industries and a vital contributor to the local economy. The department works collaboratively with growers, businesses, government agencies, and the public to encourage compliance with agricultural laws while supporting a safe and thriving agricultural community.

Agricultural Inspector Is, help protect Sonoma County's agricultural resources through inspections, investigations, education, and regulatory enforcement activities. Working under the guidance of experienced staff, they learn how to inspect agricultural commodities, production sites, businesses, and other regulated operations to ensure compliance with state and federal laws and regulations. They also interact with growers, businesses, government agencies, and members of the public while helping ensure compliance with agricultural laws and regulations.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Conducting field inspections of agricultural commodities, nurseries, production sites, pesticide use, farmers' markets, organic operations, and other regulated agricultural activities
• Investigating complaints, documenting findings, and assisting with enforcement activities, including issuing notices of violation and preparing case documentation
• Collecting field samples for laboratory analysis and maintaining accurate inspection records and reports
• Responding to inquiries from growers, businesses, partner agencies, and members of the public regarding agricultural laws, regulations, and compliance requirements
• Collaborating with County staff, state agencies, and industry representatives to support inspection and compliance programs
• Utilizing Microsoft Office, GIS applications, and other technology to document inspections and maintain program records

The ideal candidates are passionate about protecting Sonoma County's agricultural resources and providing excellent public service. They will communicate effectively with diverse audiences, exercise sound judgment, and enjoy working in both field and office environments. They are adaptable, collaborative, and committed to learning and applying agricultural laws and regulations with professionalism, integrity, and fairness.

The ideal candidates will possess many of the following:

• Knowledge of agriculture, biology, plant science, entomology, or environmental science
• The ability to learn and apply laws, regulations, policies, and technical information
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications and Geographic Information System mapping technology
• The ability to build collaborative relationships with growers, businesses, government agencies, and members of the public
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively while adapting to changing priorities and field conditions
• Professionalism and integrity while performing regulatory responsibilities
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills are desirable, but not required

Please Note: The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) oversees the licensing requirements for this classification. Candidates appointed to this position are required to obtain two CDFA licenses within 24 months of appointment.

Working at the County of Sonoma offers expansive opportunities for growth and development, the ability to be a part of a challenging and rewarding work environment, and the satisfaction of knowing you're working to better our communities. You can also look forward to flexible work arrangements and excellent benefits
* including:

• Salary Advancement - A salary increase after 1,040 hours (6 months when working full-time) for good work performance; eligibility for a salary increase for good performance every year thereafter, until reaching the top of the salary range
• Career Advancement - With time and good performance, the opportunity for advancement to Agriculture Inspector II ($39.14…