The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) takes our responsibilities very seriously and is 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 innovation.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

An Agriculture Law Enforcement Investigator plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with laws and regulations related to agriculture, animal welfare, and food safety.

This position will work closely with other government agencies, law enforcement, and agriculture stakeholders to investigate and enforce relevant laws and regulations.

The investigator will be responsible for identifying and addressing potential violations, collecting evidence, conducting interviews, and participating in legal proceedings related to agriculture law enforcement.

Job Description / Essential Functions:

1.      Investigation and Evidence Collection:

·        Conduct thorough investigations into suspected violations of agriculture laws and regulations.

·        Collect and analyze evidence, which may include documents, physical samples, surveillance footage, and witness testimonies, to build strong cases for prosecution.

·        Employ various investigative techniques such as surveillance, undercover operations, and data analysis to uncover illegal activities and gather evidence.

2.      Compliance Monitoring and Inspections:

·        Perform routine inspections of agriculture operations, including farms, shelters, and other relevant establishments, to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

·        Verify adherence to standards for animal welfare, food safety, pesticide use, and environmental protection.

·        Document any violations observed during inspections and recommend appropriate enforcement actions.

3.      Stakeholder Engagement:

·        Collaborate with government agencies, law enforcement entities, and agriculture organizations to exchange information, coordinate enforcement efforts, and share best practices.

·        Establish and maintain strong relationships with farmers and other stakeholders to promote compliance and gather intelligence on potential violations.

4.      Legal Proceedings:

·        Prepare detailed investigative reports, including findings, evidence, and recommendations for legal actions.

·        Present evidence and testify in court proceedings, administrative hearings, or other legal forums to support prosecution efforts.

·        Assist legal professionals in the preparation of legal documents, including search warrants, subpoenas, and arrest warrants.

5.      Education Outreach:

·        Provide training and educational programs to agricultural stakeholders, law enforcement personnel, and community members regarding agricultural laws, regulations, and compliance requirements.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills:

·        Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, or another field applicable to program responsibility, from an accredited college or university.

·        Extensive professional-level public safety work experience, including law enforcement investigations.

·        Experience in a multi-agency environment.

·        GA POST-certified instructor.

·        Three years’ relevant law enforcement investigative experience.

·        Experience in law enforcement, including investigations or regulatory compliance.

·        GA POST certified Peace Officer in good standing.

·        Possess a valid Georgia Driver’s License.

·        Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to collect, interpret, and present complex information effectively.

·        Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for building relationships and conducting interviews with diverse stakeholders.

·        Ability to work independently, manage multiple cases simultaneously, and prioritize tasks effectively.

·        Familiarity with investigative techniques, evidence collection, and courtroom procedures.

·        Knowledge of relevant technology and tools for data analysis, surveillance, and evidence documentation.

·        Physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors, occasionally in challenging and remote environments.

·        Ability to travel overnight, statewide, and regionally as dictated by the business needs of the agency.

NOTE: The Georgia Department of Agriculture conducts background checks on all final candidates.  The hiring of applicants is contingent upon satisfactory results of employment verification, background and 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. *