Feed Regulatory Inspector - Agricultural Specialist or Agricultural Advisor

Working Title: Feed Regulatory Inspector Job Class: Agricultural Specialist or Agricultural Advisor Agency: Minnesota Department of Agriculture Job ID: 97199Location: VariousTelework Eligible: NoFull/Part Time: Full-TimeRegular/Temporary: UnlimitedWho May Apply: Open to bidders and to all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bids accepted through 10/05/2026.Date Posted: 09/28/2026Closing Date: 10/14/2026Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Minnesota Department of Agriculture / Agriculture-MAPEDivision/Unit: Food and Feed Safety Division / Commercial Feed ProgramWork Shift/Work Hours: Day ShiftDays of Work: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.Travel Required: YesAgricultural Specialist Salary Range: $26.12 - $37.91 / hourly; $54,538 - $79,156 / annuallyAgricultural Advisor Salary Range: $28.75 - $42.16 / hourly; $60,030 - $88,030 / annuallyJob Class Option: FeedClassified Status: ClassifiedBargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPEFLSA Status: NonexemptDesignated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities. Agricultural Specialist - This entry level position within the Food and Feed Safety Division exists to achieve Program goals, objectives, and outcomes by establishing and carrying out a detailed work plan that effectively (1) performs inspections, licensing, regulatory reviews, compliance, and enforcement activities in commercial feed facilities, for assurance and general enforcement of applicable State and federal laws and regulations; (2) provides information and technical assistance for clientele with respect to feed manufacturing, handling, labeling, storage, distribution, usage and other feed related issues to include compliance with applicable State and federal laws and regulations; and (3) under general supervisory direction and oversight, performs investigations and response activities. Agricultural Advisor - This advanced level position within the Food and Feed Safety Division exists to achieve Program goals, objectives, and outcomes by establishing and carrying out a detailed work plan that effectively (1) conducts inspections, licensing investigation, response, compliance, and enforcement activities in commercial feed facilities, for assurance and general enforcement of applicable State and federal laws and regulations including licensed medicated feed mills and full-scope preventive controls; (2) provides information and technical assistance for clientele with respect to commercial feed manufacturing, and other feed related issues to include compliance with applicable State and federal laws and regulations; (3) performs investigation and response activities; and (4) provides training and assessment on inspection, sampling, compliance, licensing, investigation, and response activities for State and regulatory staff. This position is a remote worker position which is defined as an employee who, as a condition of their appointment, has their home or alternative location as the assigned work location, works permanently from that location, and does not have an agency permanent/principal work location. Currently the MDA does not allow remote work locations outside of the State of Minnesota. For more information refer to HR/LR Policy #1447 Remote Worker Policy: https://mn.gov/mmb-stat/policies/1447-remoteworker.pdf This position performs work in an area including portions of the following counties: Big Stone, Chippewa, Douglas, Grant, Kandiyohi, Lac Qui Parle, Meeker, Pope, Stevens, Swift, Todd, Traverse, Wilkin, and Yellow Medicine. However, work assignments may be made throughout the state as needed to achieve program goals. NOTE: Candidate must live in or relocate to within 35 miles of the inspection territory within 6 months of date of hire. Minimum Qualifications To facilitate proper years of service crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held. Agricultural Specialist - To qualify for the Agricultural Specialist level, applicants must meet the following qualifications: One (1) year of experience performing animal feed regulatory work (inspection, investigation, sampling, labeling review and use, compliance); or equivalent experience performing animal feed work, such as feed manufacturing, formulation, distribution, storage, labeling and use, ingredients, or technology in production, processing, or consultative settings. OR An associate’s degree in general science, natural science, animal or agricultural science, veterinary science, feed science, or closely related field PLUS six (6) months of experience as described above. OR A bachelor’s degree in general science, natural science, animal or agricultural science, veterinary science, feed science, or closely related field. AND Strong verbal and written communication skills.Must currently possess and maintain an active/valid driver's license with an acceptable motor vehicle record subject to review.The ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment. Agricultural Advisor - To qualify for the Agricultural Advisor level, applicants must meet the following qualifications: Two (2) years of experience performing animal feed regulatory work (inspection, investigation, labeling review and use, compliance); or equivalent experience performing animal feed work, such as manufacturing, formulation, distribution, storage, labeling and use, ingredients, or technology in production, processing, or consultative settings. OR An associate’s degree in general science, natural science, animal or agricultural science, veterinary science, feed science, or closely related field PLUS 18 months of experience as described above. OR A bachelor’s degree in one of the fields listed above PLUS one (1) year of experience as described above. AND Excellent verbal and written communication skills.Detailed knowledge and understanding of commercial feed laws and regulations.Must currently possess and maintain an active/valid driver's license with an acceptable motor vehicle record subject to review. The ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment. Preferred Qualifications Agricultural Specialist A bachelor’s degree or higher in a field listed from an accredited institution.More than one (1) year of experience performing animal feed regulatory work (i.e., inspections, investigation, labeling review and use, response, compliance, sampling).Demonstrated knowledge and application of commercial feed laws and regulations.Experience in animal production agriculture, such as feed formulation, livestock nutrition, or basic animal health practices.Knowledge and understanding of AAFCO Official Feed Terms, Common or Unusual Ingredient Names and Ingredient Definitions.Experience collaborating effectively with internal and external stakeholders.Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Agricultural Advisor A bachelor’s degree or higher in a field listed from an accredited institution. More than two (2) years of experience performing feed regulatory work (i.e., inspection, investigation, labeling review and use, response, compliance, sampling).Experience training and/or assessing regulatory oversight by regulatory staff. Experience in animal production agriculture, such as feed formulation, livestock nutrition, or basic animal health practices.Detailed knowledge and understanding of AAFCO Official Feed Terms, Common or Unusual Ingredient Names and Ingredient Definitions.Experience collaborating effectively with internal and external stakeholders.Experience, skill, and comfort with public speaking. Physical Requirements Agricultural Specialists and Agricultural Advisors conduct inspections and investigations in the field as needed to ensure compliance with applicable State and federal laws and regulations. The work requires the ability to: Occasionally maintain a stationary position for extended periods of time such as prolonged standing or sitting.Ascend, descend ladders and steps.Must be able to lift at least up to 60 lbs.Position self to collect/move/transport feed products during investigation, sampling, and inspection work.Traverse uneven and/or slippery walking surfaces.Work in wet, hot, and cold environmental conditions.Communicate effectively with supervisors and workers in both office and field workplace locations that may be noisy environments.Adhere to agency safety policies, including but not limited to safe operation of motor vehicles and prohibited confined space entry. Additional Requirements The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will not sponsor applicants for work visas, including STEM OPT extensions. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US. A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. It is the policy of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, as part of its hiring procedures, to conduct background checks on the finalist(s) for positions within the agency. The background check may consist of the following components: SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and former state employees only)Employment Reference CheckDriver’s License CheckConflict of Interest ReviewCriminal Background Check How To Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers. Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Barbara Schroeder at barb.a.schroeder@state.mn.us or 651-201-6229. To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Jennifer Romero at jennifer.romero@state.mn.us About Minnesota Department Of Agriculture The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day. Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy. Our three general areas of responsibility include: Protecting our food supply;Protecting our natural resources; and,Cultivating our agricultural economy. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? A sense of purpose in their workConnection with their coworkers and communitiesOpportunities for personal and professional growth Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well. Your benefits may include: Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plansFertility care, including IVFDiabetes careDental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted childrenPension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of deathShort-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injuryTax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support to help you reach your career goals: Training, classes, and professional developmentFederal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performanceCommon sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issuesDaily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants With Disabilities Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.