STATE FOOD INSPECTOR TRAINEE JOBS OFFERED

STATE FOOD INSPECTOR TRAINEE JOBS OFFERED

Start at $34G; Written Exam In September; Need 18 Credits Or Background In Related Field

The state Department of Civil Service is accepting applications for an exam leading to Food Inspector Trainee I jobs.

Applications must be postmarked by Aug. 6. The written test is scheduled for Sept. 8. The starting salary is $34,260. Individuals assigned to work in the five boroughs or in Nassau, Suffolk, Rockland, or Westchester counties will receive a $1,302 location pay adjustment.

Application Criteria

To qualify, on or before the written test candidates must have a college degree with 18 credits in chemistry, microbiology, food quality control, or related courses.

Candidates can substitute work experience for college credits where the main job responsibility involved applying scientific techniques in areas of environmental health protection, sanitation of food establishments, or quality control of food products at a wholesale food manufacturing facility. A total of 1-1/2 years of experience can be substituted for nine college credits, with each six-month period equaling three credits.

Work as a restaurant or food store manager, chef, butcher, caterer, food warehouse manager or foreman does not qualify applicants for the position. Part-time work experience will be accepted on a pro-rated basis.

State residency is not required. Candidates must have a driver's license or be able to meet regular field work transportation requirements to be appointed.

Trainees learn how to conduct inspections at food manufacturers, processors, and distributors. They are also taught to report violations regarding food labeling, advertising, and freshness.

Upon completion of the first year of instruction, Trainees will be advanced without further testing to the Trainee 2 level, which pays $36,228. After the second year, Trainees will be promoted to the Food Inspector I title, which starts at $45,113.

Test Food Safety Skills

The written exam will test candidates' abilities to evaluate and draw conclusions from information and evidence. The test will also gauge applicants' skills in food safety and sanitation procedures, general science concepts, and preparing written material. The passing score is 70 percent.

Individuals who speak Spanish are particularly urged to apply. There is a $30 filing fee. The positions are available in the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, Division of Food Safety and Inspection Services, the Office of General Services, and the Department of Environmental Conservation, in multiple locations throughout the state.

Further information can be obtained online at www.cs.state.ny.us under the job-seekers section and the employment opportunities with New York State link. Individuals can also call 518-457-2487 for details about this job and other opportunities.