Grain Sampler/Weigher

About the role

The Washington State Department of Agriculture is seeking two (2) part-time non-permanent Grain Sampler/Weigher positions within the Commodity Inspection Division. This position is located in Tacoma, Washington and is union-represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).

Responsibilities

• Sample and weigh grain and other commodities using official scales provided by the applicants.
• Weigh, sample, and examine grain and agricultural commodities at mills, shipping points, grain elevators and other locations.
• Operate testing equipment in a laboratory.
• Work with hopper, platform, dial, and electronic scales to determine weights and make necessary adjustments as needed; record gross and tare weights, compute net weights and issues Domestic Official Weight Certificates.
• Maintain records and documentation of scale conditions and all weighing activities.
• Obtain samples from railcars, trucks containers and other conveyances, moving streams of grain, and vessel holds using standardized sample collection equipment provided by employer.
• Work in railroad yards and other hazardous areas, opening and closing container doors, recording on sample ticket container condition, identification, seal numbers applied, and other required information.
• Sample, check weighs, and check loads shipping containers for compliance with government contracts.
• Sample commodities and grains for inspection and phytosanitary certification, sample grass seed for phytosanitary certification, sample products and/or weighs commodities under directions issued by USDA agencies, such as the Agricultural Marketing Service or Farm Service Agency.
• Drive agency vehicle to perform exams/inspections.
• Conduct protein and mycotoxin testing on grains and commodities.
• Operate specialized grain inspection equipment to determine protein, mycotoxins, falling numbers, dockage, moisture, testweight per bushel, or other mechanical determinations as required using specially approved testing equipment, computers, and procedures.
• Perform Stowage examinations.
• Check ship holds, containers and/or other conveyances to determine fitness for grain cargo and other commodities; issues ship sanitation certificates in compliance with state and federal regulations, performs observations of fumigation.
• Drive agency vehicle to perform exams/inspections.

Qualifications

• Must be able to acquire and maintain a valid driver's license to travel on agency business.
• Must be able to acquire a valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
• Must be able to pass background check for Customs and Border Protection to allow boarding of vessels prior to Customs and Border Protection personnel.

Benefits

Employee Benefits: A healthy work/life balance, which may include flexible work schedules, and teleworking. WSDA provides an excellent benefits package beyond traditional benefits. State employment offers Dependent Care Assistance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Deferred Compensation, Employee Recognition Leave; click here for more information. 12 paid Holidays & Vacation and Leave Accruals. All Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required will be provided by the agency.

Contact Us

If you have any questions regarding this position or the online application, contact the Human Resource Office at Recruitment@agr.wa.gov.