To be considered for Department of Livestock positions, applicants must complete and submit their application online, as well as upload any required application materials.
This position is listed as 'Open Until Filled' with a first review of applications on August 27, 2026.
Materials Required of Applicants:
Cover Letter: Attach a separate cover letter that explains your interest in working for the MT Department of Livestock and explains your experience handling livestock, Please be specific. At the bottom of the cover letter please rate yourself as a beginner, intermediate or advanced in:
A) cattle handling B.) roping and clipping C). use of personal computers.
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Resume
References: References will be required by finalist applicants prior to formal job offer, however are not required as part of the application process at this time.
Reasons to work fo the 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! Other fantastic benefits include:
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Health Coverage
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Retirement plans
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Paid vacation, sick leave and Holidays
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Opportunities and room for professional growth
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Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive loan forgiveness- click HERE to learn more!
About this Opportunity!
Job Summary: This position is responsible for providing supervision and coordinating inspections of livestock, and electronically ensuring Brand inspection, proof of ownership, lien and mortgage identification, and animal health requirements are met prior to change of ownership, slaughter, and transportation transactions. The position is also responsible for responding to incidents of stray cattle and accidents involving livestock on an on-call basis, and resolving ownership discrepancies. The position works out of the Headwaters Livestock Auction in Three Forks, MT and reports to the Area supervisor.
Competencies:
Expected to become competent in two knowledge and duty areas (brands and animal health). The position requires knowledge of State and Federal livestock laws and regulations, the District and feedlot locations, and commission company, feedlot, and slaughterhouse operations; anatomy and physiology of stock (cattle, sheep, horses - including reproductive stages and breeds), brands, lending institution and departmental requirements regarding liens and mortgages, and livestock industry standards, ownership legal requirements, stock handling methods and techniques, basic grammar and composition, and general office procedures and practices. Demonstrated effective leadership skills are highly important to be successful in this position. A willingness and ability to adapt to changing priorities to best serve the agency and the livestock industry. The ability to work well under pressure or stress; keeps a positive perspective, maintains self-control and objectivity in the face of conflict, opposition, hostility or stress, is patient and even-tempered with others, maintains business-like and positive approach. Must be able to utilize modern technology such as computers and new Brand Inspection tools. knowlege and ability to use the statewide brand recording system, established reporting formats, and arithmetic as well as proficiency in word processing software such as outlook and Microsoft Word.
WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Essential functions of the position involve physical demands related to standing, walking and running for long periods of time (may work as much as 10 hours or more during shipping season); the ability to handle livestock, and move quickly, climb fences, etc. in order to avoid serious injury, the ability to rope and clip animals, ride horses, and operate a motor vehicle. Working conditions involve continued exposure to extreme weather conditions, dust, and unpleasant conditions encountered in slaughterhouses and in stockyards. There is also a serious risk of injury present in the performance of the position. The position will work with unpredictable range stock, and must have extensive experience working in this environment in order to take the necessary precautions, and be aware of and immediately recognize dangerous situations. Duties related to inspections at remote locations and rounding up stray stock involve uncontrolled circumstances and a significant risk assumed by the incumbent.
Education and Experience:
The necessary knowledge, skills and abilities are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to:
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Graduation from high school or equivalent and
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At least four (4) years occupationally related experience.
Preferred:
Previous supervisory experience within the Department or from prior employment or volunteer involvement desirable.
Prior experience as a Livestock Inspector.
Contact Name: Human Resources |
Contact Email: [email protected] |
Contact Phone: 406-444-5684
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.
