We at the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) take our responsibilities to you very seriously and are committed to protecting and promoting Georgia's agriculture through superior service and leadership.

·         The mission of the GDA is to protect consumers, promote agriculture locally and globally, and assist our customers using education, technology, and a professional workforce.

·         The vision of the GDA is to continue to be a globally recognized leader in agricultural excellence through a commitment to safety, quality, growth, and inn

Job Description:

The Companion Animal and Equine – Field Inspector 

·         The section enforces laws and regulations about companion animals and equines. 

·         This section licenses pet dealers, animal shelters, kennels, stables, and bird dealers. 

·         Inspectors in this section are responsible for enforcing the Animal Protection Act and Humane Care of Equines Act. 

·         Inspectors inspect equine sales, abuse complaints, stables, and events, as well as licensed and unlicensed facilities. 

This position is assigned to the following Counties:  

Applicants must reside in one of these counties or be willing to relocate.

1.       Dade

2.       Bartow

3.       Catoosa

4.       Gordon

5.       Murray

6.       Walker

7.       Whitfield

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Under general supervision, performs routine inspections and comprehensive investigations to determine compliance with applicable state law.

·         Writes technical reports and other correspondence. 

·         Guides the regulated community and public.

·         Inspects and investigates complaints and/or suspected violations.

·         Inspect various facilities and/or equipment for accuracy, sanitation, and compliance.

·         Collects and/or assists with the collection of various samples.

Other duties assigned.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION:

• • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
    • Ability to write reports according to guidelines.
    • Ability to use area-specific computer software.
    • Ability to write accurate compliance documentation.
  • Ability to develop a case or regulatory action
    • Ability to document and develop a case.
    • Ability to maintain the chain of custody for all evidence collected.
    • Ability to testify in legal proceedings.
  • Ability to establish relationships
    • Ability to establish relationships with state and federal agencies.
    • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, officials, and the general public.
    • Ability to deal with controversial matters tactfully.
    • Ability to provide excellent customer service to the public and others.
  • Other responsibilities
    • Must hold a valid driver’s license.
    • Must be able to legally operate a State-issued vehicle.
    • Must have a working knowledge of Windows computer operating systems and applications.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills:

·         Three years of experience in horse training, breeding, or equine facility management and/or at least one year of experience in a pet industry-related field (i.e., veterinary clinic/hospital, boarding/breeding kennel, animal shelter, or pet store).

·         Experience or familiarity with laws and regulations pertaining to companion animals, equine, and/or animal health. 

·         Bachelor’s degree in animal science or related field; and/or

·         Working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite.

Physical Demands:

·         Must be able to lift 50 lbs.

·         Multiple hours of driving per day.

·         Must be able to withstand extended exposure to outdoor elements.

NOTE: The Georgia Department of Agriculture conducts background checks on all final candidates. The hiring of applicants is contingent upon satisfactory employment verification results, background, criminal records investigations, and motor vehicle reports.

HOW TO APPLY:  Resumes may be submitted by adding to your profile in Team Georgia Careers.

·         Via Team Georgia Careers http://team.georgia.gov/careers/

The GDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants will be considered, but may not necessarily receive an interview. Due to this office's large volume of submissions, information concerning application and/or interview status cannot be provided.  Selected applicants will be contacted for the next steps in the interview process.  Applicants who are not selected will not receive a notification.

Please contact the Human Resources Office at (404) 656-3615 if you need accommodation.

** The position will be closed once a suitable candidate is identified. *