Agricultural Inspector Career Description
Agriculture is of the utmost importance for the South African economy. Agricultural products are exported to other countries and the South African population is dependent on agricultural products for food. It is important that all agricultural products are of a high quality. The agricultural inspector is a technician who inspects the various agricultural products.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
There are three main fields in which the agricultural inspector can specialise:
Plant and quality control technician
These agricultural inspectors work for the Directorate: Plant and Quality Control of the Department of Agriculture. They are involved in quality control, plant health services, plant and seed control and analyses services. Quality control involves, among other things, control of the quality and marking requirements of certain agricultural products, such as fresh produce and plant material specifically for propagation purposes. Plant health services involves the control of plant diseases and harmful insects, as well as export and import control.
Meat inspector
Meat inspectors must ensure that animals, which are slaughtered at abattoirs, are healthy and that the meat is fit for human consumption. They must also ensure that the animals are killed and butchered in a decent and hygienic manner. They inspect the abattoir for general neatness and hygiene.
Animal health technician
Animal health technicians work under the supervision of government veterinary surgeons. They are responsible for the prevention and control of animal diseases. They collect samples, make surveys, conduct investigations and perform laboratory procedures regarding stock diseases. They are also responsible for making inspections to ensure that agricultural laws regarding animal health and relevant fields are complied with. Animal health technicians give information
and guidance regarding the control of animal diseases to farmers.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Agricultural inspectors must be able to adapt to different working conditions. They must have good communication skills to communicate information to farmers.
Where can I work?
Agricultural inspectors are employed by the Department of Agriculture.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Agricultural inspectors cannot work for themselves.
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