Seasonal H-2A Housing Inspector

The positions will be located out of the DEED offices in Marshall or Moorhead and require daily travel to rural and remote worksites across Minnesota.

About the role

This position is a seasonal appointment from approximately May 1 through February 28 each year, though exact season dates may shift depending on business needs. The Seasonal H-2A Housing Inspector ensures employer-provided housing for H-2A agricultural workers meets all applicable federal and state health, safety, and occupancy standards. This position supports DEED’s Foreign Labor Certification (FLC) program by conducting pre-occupancy and follow-up inspections, documenting compliance with federal regulations, Minnesota housing and health codes, and United States Department of Labor (USDOL) inspection protocols. The inspector evaluates housing conditions, identifies deficiencies, prepares detailed inspection reports, and communicates required corrective actions to agricultural employers in a professional, regulatory, and culturally sensitive manner. This role works independently in the field, coordinates with state and federal partners, maintains accurate inspection records, and supports audits and monitoring activities.

Responsibilities

• Ensure employer-provided housing for H-2A agricultural workers meets all applicable federal and state health, safety, and occupancy standards.
• Support DEED’s Foreign Labor Certification (FLC) program by conducting pre-occupancy and follow-up inspections.
• Document compliance with federal regulations, Minnesota housing and health codes, and USDOL inspection protocols.
• Evaluate housing conditions, identify deficiencies, prepare detailed inspection reports, and communicate required corrective actions to agricultural employers.
• Work independently in the field, manage schedules, and complete assignments with minimal supervision.
• Communicate regulatory or technical information clearly to the public, employers, or partner agencies.
• Coordinate with state and federal partners and maintain accurate inspection records.
• Support audits and monitoring activities.

Requirements

• One (1) year* experience conducting inspections or compliance reviews in housing, safety, environmental health, agriculture, construction, building codes, public health, or other closely related field as determined by the agency.
• An associate’s degree in construction management, building inspection, building technology, environmental health, public health ce or other closely related field as determined by the agency may substitute six (6) months of experience; a bachelor’s degree substitutes for one (1) year of experience.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Maintain valid driver's license and insurance OR have other reliable transportation.

Skills

• Proficiency in using computers and software applications relevant to the job.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Knowledge of federal and state housing and health codes.
• Ability to work in a multicultural environment.

Benefits

• One of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• 12 paid holidays each year.
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans.
• Fertility care, including IVF.
• Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children.
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children.
• Pension 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 death.
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury.
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care.
• Support to help you reach your career goals: Training, classes, and professional development.
• 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 performance.
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues.
• Daily 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.