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Grain Inspector Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Andersons, Inc.

Worker II, Food Operations

Mansfield, IL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

The position involves operating scales, assisting with truck dumping, testing and grading grain, monitoring bins and grain flow, and performing routine inspections to ensure quality, food safety, and ...

The Andersons, Inc.

Worker II, Food Operations

Mansfield, IL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

The position involves operating scales, assisting with truck dumping, testing and grading grain, monitoring bins and grain flow, and performing routine inspections to ensure quality, food safety, and ...

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All JobsGrain Inspector JobsGrain Inspector Jobs in Decatur, IL

Grain Inspector information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$10.7K

$44.8K

$65K

How much do grain inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for grain inspector in Decatur, IL is $44,755.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,900.00 and $56,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are grain inspectors and what do they do?

Grain inspectors are professionals who examine and grade grains such as wheat, corn, soybeans, and rice to ensure they meet quality and safety standards set by government agencies or industry guidelines. They sample grain shipments, check for moisture content, foreign materials, and signs of pests or disease, and issue official inspection certificates. Their work helps maintain the integrity of the grain supply chain and ensures fair trading practices between buyers and sellers.

How much does a grain inspector make?

The average salary for a grain inspector is around $40,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Grain inspectors typically work in agricultural settings, inspecting grain quality and using tools like sampling equipment, often requiring certification or training.

What Are the Duties of a Grain Inspector?

The duties of a grain inspector include inspecting containers, trucks, and railcars to ensure they meet requirements for carrying grain, ensuring they do not have leaks, infestations, or other issues. You are in charge of quality control and take samples of each grain load and test it using federal grain inspection procedures outlined by the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) and Agricultural Marketing Act (AMA). Other responsibilities include preparing for grading by running a number of tests and awarding each load with a corresponding grade based on moisture content, weight, and foreign material presence. Other tests may be required such as for measuring mycotoxins, proteins and oil, and more. You document all tests that you run and keep a record of all results and grades.

What are some common challenges faced by Grain Inspectors during the harvest season, and how can they be effectively managed?

During the harvest season, Grain Inspectors often face increased workloads and tighter deadlines due to the high volume of grain that needs to be evaluated quickly and accurately. Adapting to varying environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures or dust, is another challenge. Effective time management, teamwork, and clear communication with farmers and facility staff are essential for maintaining accuracy and efficiency. Employers typically provide additional training and support during peak periods to help inspectors manage these demands.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Grain Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grain Inspector, you need a solid understanding of agricultural practices, grain quality standards, and sampling procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Experience with grading equipment, moisture meters, and government or industry-specific inspection software is typically required. Attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring accurate assessments and interacting with farmers and buyers. These skills and qualifications are vital to maintaining product quality, regulatory compliance, and fair trade within the grain industry.

What is the difference between Grain Inspector vs Grain Sampler?

AspectGrain InspectorGrain Sampler
CertificationsOften requires USDA or state certificationsMay require similar certifications, but less comprehensive
Work EnvironmentInspecting grain at storage facilities, mills, or portsCollecting samples at storage sites, during transport, or at processing plants
Industry UsageUsed in grain grading, quality control, and regulatory compliancePrimarily involved in sampling for testing and analysis

While both roles involve working with grain, a Grain Inspector focuses on evaluating grain quality and grading, often requiring certifications and regulatory knowledge. A Grain Sampler primarily collects samples for testing, which may be part of the inspection process but involves less certification. Both roles are essential in the grain industry and often work together to ensure quality and compliance.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Among inspection roles, specialized inspectors such as quality control managers or senior agricultural inspectors tend to earn higher salaries. Grain inspectors with advanced certifications or experience in large-scale operations may also earn more, especially if they take on supervisory or managerial responsibilities.
More about Grain Inspector jobs
What job categories do people searching Grain Inspector jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Grain Inspector jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Grain Inspector jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Grain Inspector job openings:
Grain Inspector jobs near you

Grain Elevator Worker - Total Grain Marketing, LLC - Cadwell, IL

Legacy Farmers Cooperative

Cadwell, IL • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

The FS brand represents a standard of excellence for agricultural and energy-related products. It's the people who represent the FS brand that set it apart. As local cooperatives, FS Companies believe it is their responsibility to ensure that our earth, our communities, and businesses perform together, sustainably. FS Companies are committed to ensuring the continued profitability for the company, their owners, and their customers, while enacting to help the environment and greater good.

SALARY RANGE: $16 - $20 / Hr

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Responsible for a variety of general labor tasks which are required to assist in meeting internal and external customer needs. 

 ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Operate grain handling equipment, such as conveyors, augers, and elevators, to move grains throughout the facility.
  • Load, unload, and transport various types of grain (e.g., corn, wheat, soybeans) from trucks, trailers and trains.
  • Ensure proper storage of grains in elevators, silos, or bins to maintain quality and prevent spoilage or contamination.
  • Inspect grain for quality, removing any foreign objects or damaged grains and ensuring proper sorting.
  • Ensures products are evenly balanced and distributed on trucks/trailers and proper axle weights are met.
  • Communicate effectively with customers.
  • Provide exceptional customer service.
  • Assist with monitoring the quality of stored grains and report any issues related to pests, moisture, or other factors affecting grain quality.
  • Must have the ability to work from heights.
  • Ability to work in various weather conditions.
  • Assist with loading grains for shipment to customers or processing plants, ensuring timely and accurate delivery.
  • Follow safety protocols to ensure safe handling of grains and operation of equipment, including wearing appropriate safety gear.
  • Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of grain-handling equipment and work areas to ensure operational efficiency and prevent contamination.
  • Ability to work extended hours as business conditions warrant.                                                  
  • Attends all required meetings and training programs.
  • Maintains an appropriate inventory of parts necessary for repairs and maintenance.
  • Successfully adhere to safety rules and company policies and procedures.  EHS, OSHA and DOT policies and procedures must be adhered to at all times.
  • All other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS

Requires a high school diploma, GED or related experience equivalent.  Valid Driver's License is preferred.  Ability to work extended hours.

 

We are dedicated to supporting the long-term financial well-being of our employees through a fully funded pension, a cornerstone benefit that ensures security for the future. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a variety of supplemental plans like accident, critical illness, disability, hospital indemnity, and identity theft protection. To promote a healthy work-life balance, employees enjoy generous paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays, giving you time to recharge and focus on what matters most. Additionally, our 401(k) plan with company matching helps you plan for retirement, while our free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) supports your overall well-being. Whether you're starting your career, balancing family life, or planning for retirement, our company is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that meets your needs at every stage. Benefits eligibility may vary depending on the position.

Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law.  In addition to base pay, certain roles may be eligible for bonuses, incentives, and commissions.


We are an equal opportunity employer, including protected veterans and qualified individuals with disabilities. Employment may be contingent upon receipt of an acceptable and job-related background check, drug test, motor vehicle report, and/or reference check, as applicable and permissible by law.

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