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Usda Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Rembrandt Foods

Breaking Plant

New Hampton, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

... USDA inspector Perform Machine Operator/Candler's duties and responsibilities when necessary Perform other tasks as assigned Interact with USDA inspector Perform other tasks as assigned Backup: A ...

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How much do usda jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for usda in Iowa is $15.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $16.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a USDA inspector?

To thrive as a USDA Inspector, you need a solid background in agricultural science, food safety protocols, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a relevant degree or specialized training. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory equipment, and food safety management systems like HACCP is typically required. Attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure the safety and quality of agricultural products, uphold public health standards, and maintain compliance with federal regulations.

What is the difference between Usda vs Food Inspector?

AspectUsdaFood Inspector
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in agriculture, food science, or related fields; USDA certificationsOften requires similar degrees and certifications, including food safety training
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, farms, food processing facilities, inspection sitesFood processing plants, farms, retail stores, government inspection sites
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Agriculture, agriculture, food productionFood safety agencies, government, private food companies

Both USDA employees and Food Inspectors work within the food safety and agriculture sectors, often sharing similar credentials and work environments. USDA roles may encompass broader responsibilities, while Food Inspectors focus specifically on inspecting food products for safety and compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by USDA inspectors in the field, and how are they supported in overcoming these challenges?

USDA inspectors often face challenges such as navigating complex regulations, working in varied environments (from processing plants to farms), and ensuring compliance under tight deadlines. They may also encounter resistance from stakeholders or need to adapt quickly to evolving food safety concerns. To support inspectors, the USDA provides ongoing training, access to specialized resources, and collaboration with experienced colleagues and supervisors, ensuring inspectors can effectively uphold standards and maintain public safety.

What is the USDA?

The USDA, or United States Department of Agriculture, is a federal agency responsible for developing and executing policies on farming, agriculture, forestry, and food. Its mission includes supporting farmers, ensuring food safety, promoting agricultural trade, and protecting natural resources. The USDA also provides food assistance programs and conducts research to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. The agency plays a key role in rural development and maintaining the nation’s food supply.
What are the most commonly searched types of Usda jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Usda jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Usda jobs in Iowa? For Usda jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Usda jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Usda jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Usda jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Usda job openings:
Usda jobs near you
Infographic showing various Usda job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 12% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,718 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Land & Water Conservationist

IOWA ASSN SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRIC

Spirit Lake, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Conservation Districts of Iowa
Land & Water Conservationists
Spirit Lake, Iowa
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Anticipated Start Date: Upon successful background check

The successful applicant would work in one of the following areas:
·       Housed in the Spirit Lake USDA-NRCS office  
 
These positions are funded through an agreement between the Conservation Districts of Iowa and the Iowa Natural Resource Conservation Service. Funding is secured through September of 2027 with the opportunity for extension.

Job Description:

Land & Water Conservationists will work to promote conservation practice adoption on private lands in Iowa by assisting with the delivery of USDA’s conservation programs including the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), and other federal, state, and local private lands conservation initiatives. Your efforts to promote and implement conservation practices will help to ensure that Iowa’s landowners and agricultural producers have the technical and financial assistance necessary to address natural resource concerns on their land. This will create positive environmental impacts to water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat.

As a Conservation Districts of Iowa (CDI) employee, you would work in partnership with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). You would serve as a member of the NRCS Resource Team, receiving training and daily direction from the NRCS Resource Team Lead and District Conservationists for the effective delivery of conservation programs. You would also work closely with the DNR Private Lands Biologist to receive training on wildlife habitat assessment, development, and management for the delivery of wildlife-oriented initiatives. 

We expect the successful candidate to develop into an integral part of the effective delivery of conservation programs. This will involve coordinating with landowners and the resource team to promote conservation practice adoption to landowners and to develop conservation program applications, and create long-term conservation plans. Additionally, the successful candidate will be responsible for providing technical assistance and consultation to landowners for the successful implementation of these practices. At the end of the first year, success would mean that you have developed the skills and relationships necessary to assist landowners and your team members to promote and implement conservation practices using various conservation programs across the landscape. 

 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agencies. 
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
  • Knowledge of water conservation and wildlife ecology, wetland and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools in the development of management plans. 
  • Knowledge of water conservation and wildlife programs provided by federal (i.e. Farm Bill, US Fish and Wildlife Service), state, & local entities. In addition, knowledge of how these programs are implemented in an agricultural landscape is desired.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with computer software programs such as Microsoft Office, ArcGIS or USDA Conservation Desktop.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Valid driver’s license required.
  • Some overnight and evening work required.
  • Able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications: 

Bachelor of Science Degree in Conservation Ecology or closely related natural resources field and 1-year related field experience in conservation related positions.

Benefits to the Applicant:

  • Professional Development: Gain valuable experience and skills in conservation program delivery while working alongside experienced professionals in the field.
  • Impactful Work: Contribute to meaningful conservation efforts that benefit local ecosystems and wildlife, and make a tangible difference in environmental protection.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build strong professional relationships with landowners and conservation organizations, expanding your network within the industry.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and expertise through hands-on experience and professional development opportunities. Previous staff members have successfully leveraged their experience to secure permanent positions within the conservation field, demonstrating the strong potential for career advancement as a result of this experience.
  • Compensation and Benefits:
  • Hourly Rate: $18.47/hour
  • Health Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance coverage
  • Retirement Package: Retirement savings plan
  • Paid Time Off: Paid holidays and paid leave
  • Opportunities for Raises: Potential for salary increases based on performance
Please note that CDI reserves the right to amend or terminate any benefit plans. Participation in these benefits does not constitute a contract or guarantee of future employment.
To Apply: Please include your cover letter indicating which position(s) you are applying for, your resume, and three professional references as one PDF file. Send to Dien Judge at dien@cdiowa.org. CDI is an equal opportunity employer.