Agricultural inspector

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• applying directly

University

You could start by taking a degree in a relevant subject like:

• science
• maths
• environmental health
• agriculture

Some universities offer a foundation degree in agriculture as preparation for working in the agricultural sector.

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

College

The following courses may help you to work towards this role:

• Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Agriculture
• Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Agriculture

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

Entry requirements:

DirectApplication

To apply directly to become an agricultural inspector, you'll usually need A levels or equivalent and at least 2 years' relevant work experience, for example as an agricultural machine operator.

A professional qualification in health and safety would also be useful, for example a course offered through NEBOSH or IOSH .

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to analyse quality or performance
• customer service skills
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to read English
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• maths knowledge
• active listening skills
• legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
• business management skills
• administration skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

Agricultural inspectors make sure animal welfare and environmental standards are followed in farms and dairies.

Your day to day duties will depend on where you work.

For the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), you could:

• check machinery, buildings and the working environment
• investigate accidents and complaints
• write reports and make recommendations

For the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), you could:

• collect and analyse data
• check record keeping on farms
• investigate animal welfare concerns
• plan the control and prevention of animal disease

For food assurance standards, you could:

• inspect the health and welfare of livestock
• check food crop production methods
• ensure records and documents are kept up to date

Location : You could work in an office or on a farm.
Environment : Your working environment may be noisy and dirty.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £23,000
Experienced : £40,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

38 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings away from home

Career Path:

With experience, you could become a manager or work as a consultant in occupational health.

You could also specialise in areas like public health or conservation. Salaries for specialist work can sometimes be higher.