Typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school.
Extensive experience handling, roping and clipping cattle, with the ability to demonstrate safe work habits.
Experience in quiet, safe and efficient cattle-handling on foot and in close proximity to cattle.
Ability to spend most of the day standing and walking outside in all weather conditions.
Ability to explain regulations to the public in a patient, clear and tactful manner.
Ability to operate a personal computer and other handheld electronic devices.
Ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
Ability to pass a background check and have an acceptable driving record.
Possession of a valid Montana driver's license.
Responsibilities
Inspect livestock at livestock markets to document brands and other identifying characteristics, using a handheld computer device when required.
Collect and review paperwork from livestock owners to ensure livestock ownership is clear and correct.
Issue inspections and permits for animals moving or changing ownership near the livestock market.
Provide clear instruction and clarification to producers regarding Montana livestock regulations.
Desired Qualifications
Previous Department of Livestock or market experience.
To be considered for Department of Livestock positions, applicants must apply and submit any required application materials through the State Of Montana Careers Website at Statecareers.mt.gov.
This position is posted as "open until filled" with a first review of applications on September 8, 2026.
Materials Required of Applicants\:
Cover Letter\: Attach a cover letter that explains your interest in working for the MT Department of Livestock and explains your experience handling livestock, roping and clipping as well as any computer experience you may have.
Resume
Reasons to work for the Montana Department of Livestock\:Our work matters! Our work supports and protects the livestock industry. We are proud of our work and the contribution we make to the Montana way of life. Please read on to find out about this opportunity to join our law enforcement team! To find out more about the Department of Livestock visit our website HERE.
Benefits of working for the Department of Livestock\: The ability to work and play in the beautiful state of Montana is one of the benefits you will love about this opportunity!
When you work for the State of Montana, the compensation for your hard work is more then just a paycheck. The State of Montana offers employees a robust total rewards package that invests in you! Here are some of the benefits\:
Health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, EAP - click here to learn more.
Work/life balance with hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within the state of Montana.
A combination of 38 paid days off a year; including vacation, sick leave and holidays.
Military leave\: You’ll get up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.
Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan - click here to learn more.
Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary. A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available. – Click here to learn more.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive loan forgiveness- click here to learn more!
Career progression, training opportunities and room for professional growth.
State employee discounts at various businesses across the state.
About this Opportunity\: The
Department of Livestock Employees are passionate about protecting and serving the livestock industry across Montana! This specific position is crucial for providing livestock inspection services at the Livestock Commission in Miles City, MT.
WHAT THIS POSITION DOES\: Inspects livestock at livestock markets to document brands and other identifying characteristics. This may be required to be done with a handheld computer device. Collects and reviews paperwork from the livestock owner to ensure that ownership of livestock is clear and correct. Issues inspections and permits for animals moving or changing ownership near the livestock market. Provides clear instruction and clarification to producers when they have questions about Montana livestock regulations. This position reports to the Market Supervisor and does not supervise others.
Special Information/Working Conditions\: This position may have physical demands related to standing and walking for long periods of time (may work as much as 10 hours or more in a day). Livestock Inspectors must have the ability to handle livestock, move quickly, climb fences, etc. in order to avoid serious injury. Ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. Working conditions sometimes involve continued exposure to extreme weather conditions, dust, and unpleasant conditions encountered in stockyards, along with the inherent risk of injury associated with handling livestock in close proximity.
Safety Culture\: The Department of Livestock promotes a culture of workplace responsibility, safety and well-being.
Applicants for the Market Inspector position must be\: Experienced in quiet, safe, and efficient cattle-handling on foot and in close proximity to cattle. Able to spend most of the day standing and walking, outside, whatever the weather. It's not uncommon for an inspector to have 20,0000 steps in before noon on a busy sale day. Committed to maintaining a high standard of performance. The work that inspectors do protects the livestock industry from theft and disease. Patient, clear and tactful when explaining regulations to the public. Livestock laws can be confusing and frustrating, and helping folks understand them is a big priority. To be a part of our team you must be willing, versatile, positive and kind. Able to operate a personal computer and other handheld electronic devices. Able to operate a motor vehicle.
Education and Experience (Required Qualifications)\:
The necessary knowledge, skills and abilities are\:
Typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and;
Extensive experience handling, roping and clipping cattle, and the ability to demonstrate safe work habits.
Previous Department of Livestock/Market experience is preferred.
Applicants must pass a background check, have an acceptable driving record, and possess a valid Montana driver's license.
Anyone who needs to request a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the HR staff identified on the job listing or by dialing the Montana Relay at 711. Montana Job Service Offices also offer services including assistance with submitting an online application.
State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.
State of Montana is the state government responsible for public administration and services across Montana. State agencies deliver healthcare, transportation, natural resources, public safety, regulation, education support, taxation, and other public programs. It serves residents, businesses, local governments, visitors, communities, and public institutions throughout Montana. Its operating model centers on departments and agencies operating under elected leadership, public law, budgets, civil-service systems, and statewide infrastructure. Teams work across public administration, healthcare, engineering, technology, finance, regulation, public safety, and community services. Teams support coordinated daily delivery.
Risk & Compliance (1)