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Grain Inspector Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Production Technician

Baytown, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

... or grain trailer by using a skid steer. • Segregate material using a forklift or skid steer ... Daily, inspect and perform minor maintenance on the forklift or other equipment. • Operate all ...

Production Technician

Baytown, TX

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

... or grain trailer by using a skid steer. • Segregate material using a forklift or skid steer ... Daily, inspect and perform minor maintenance on the forklift or other equipment. • Operate all ...

Operating equipment associated with the loadout and unloading process for grain including trucks ... Monitor equipment, complete pre-use daily inspections, independently solve simple problems while ...

Operating equipment associated with the loadout and unloading process for grain including trucks ... Monitor equipment, complete pre-use daily inspections, independently solve simple problems while ...

Operating equipment associated with the loadout and unloading process for grain including trucks ... Monitor equipment, complete pre-use daily inspections, independently solve simple problems while ...

Journeyman 1 - Paint

Baytown, TX · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Apply paint to simulate wood grain, marble, brick, or stonework * Prepare, operate, inspect and maintain blast pots and spray pumps * Cut stencils, and brushes and sprays lettering and decorations on ...

Grain Inspector information

See Houston, TX salary details

$10.5K

$44.1K

$64K

How much do grain inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for grain inspector in Houston, TX is $44,063.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,400.00 and $55,900.00 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 to become a grain inspector?

To become a grain inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue post-secondary education in agriculture, food science, or a related field. Certification from industry organizations and experience with grain grading, sampling, and testing procedures are often required or preferred by employers.

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.

How hard is it to become a food inspector?

Becoming a food inspector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions favoring or requiring postsecondary education in food science, biology, or related fields. Candidates often need to pass written exams, background checks, and may need to obtain certifications or licenses depending on the jurisdiction, along with on-the-job training. The process involves gaining knowledge of food safety standards, inspection procedures, and sometimes working in regulated environments, but it is generally accessible with the right education and training.

What does a grain inspector do?

A grain inspector evaluates the quality and condition of grains such as wheat, corn, and soybeans by inspecting samples for moisture content, pests, and contamination. They use tools like moisture meters and work in storage facilities or at grain elevators to ensure grains meet industry standards and regulations.

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 command higher pay. Salary levels depend on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the inspection tasks performed.
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What job categories do people searching Grain Inspector jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Grain Inspector jobs in Houston, TX are:
Infographic showing various Grain Inspector job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,063 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Bindery Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient setup, operation, and basic maintenance of commercial die-cutting and paper cutting equipment used in a print and packaging environment. This role supports production by accurately cutting, trimming, and die-cutting printed materials according to customer specifications, job tickets, and production schedules.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Core duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Set up, operate, and monitor flatbed die-cutting equipment and guillotine paper cutters in accordance with job specifications.
  • Review job tickets, layouts, and cutting instructions to determine proper setup, tooling, and sequencing.
  • Mount dies, stripping units, cutting blades, and related components per job requirements.
  • Perform makeready processes including registration, pressure adjustments, test runs, and first-piece inspections.
  • Program cutter settings using digital control systems to achieve precise cuts and tolerances.
  • Inspect materials throughout production runs to ensure accuracy, alignment, and quality standards are met.
  • Cut and process a variety of materials including coated and uncoated paper, cover stock, label stock, paperboard, corrugate, and specialty substrates.
  • Troubleshoot issues related to cutting accuracy, die-cut quality, registration, and machine performance.
  • Perform jogging, stacking, waste removal, and material handling to support downstream finishing processes.
  • Collaborate with the Maintenance Department to support preventative maintenance and minor equipment repairs.
  • Follow all safety procedures related to machinery operation, blade handling, guards, and PPE requirements.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area at all times.
  • Work collaboratively with pressroom, bindery, grand-format, and finishing team members to meet production deadlines.
  • Accurately complete production reports, time logs, and quality control documentation.

REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; vocational or technical training preferred.
  • 2+ years of experience operating commercial finishing equipment, including:
  • Flatbed die-cutters (e.g., Bobst, Thomson, Cahue, Rollem, Kluge)
  • Guillotine paper cutters (e.g., Polar, Wohlenberg, Challenge)
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform equipment setup, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting.
  • Ability to read and interpret job tickets, layouts, drawings, and cut lists.
  • Working knowledge of die-cutting processes, paper characteristics (grain, weight), and cutting performance.
  • Strong math skills and proficiency using measurement tools (rulers, calipers, micrometers).
  • Excellent attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
  • Familiarity with digital cutter programming systems (e.g., Polar or similar).
  • Willingness to work overtime, weekends, or flexible shifts as production demands require.
  • Experience in commercial printing, finishing, packaging, folding cartons, or similar environments.