Livestock Market Inspector- Billings

Munro Footwear Group; Billings (MT); On-site; USD 23,525 - 33,506; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision insurance

38 paid days off per year

Retirement plans with employer contribution

Job summary

The Montana Department of Livestock, in Billings, seeks multiple Market Inspectors to ensure livestock market regulations are upheld. This role involves inspecting animals, reviewing ownership paperwork, and issuing permits. Applicants should have significant experience in cattle handling and be able to communicate effectively. Notable benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and up to 38 paid days off annually. The position offers a salary of $20.70 per hour with potential for a pay increase in 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience in quiet, safe, and efficient cattle handling.
• Ability to stand and walk for most of the day outdoors.
• Must pass background check and possess a valid Montana driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Inspect livestock and document identifying characteristics.
• Collect and review paperwork from livestock owners.
• Provide clear instruction about Montana livestock regulations.

Skills

Cattle handling

Computer operation

Patience and tactfulness

Education

High school graduation or equivalent

Tools

Handheld computer device

Job description

Position Title

The Department of Livestock is recruiting for multiple Market Inspectors to work in the Billings Livestock Commission and the Public Auction Yards in Billings, MT.

Materials Required of Applicants

• Cover Letter: Attach a cover letter that explains your interest in working for the MT Department of Livestock, describes your experience handling livestock, roping and clipping, as well as any computer experience you may have.
• Resume
• References: Applicants will be required to provide acceptable references before a job offer is made, although they are not required as part of the initial submission process.

Reasons to work for the Montana Department of Livestock

Our work supports and protects the livestock industry. We are proud of our contribution to the Montana way of life. Join our law enforcement team!

Benefits of working for the Department of Livestock

You will enjoy working in the beautiful state of Montana.

• Health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, and Employee Assistance Program (click to learn more)
• Work/life balance with hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available
• 38 paid days off a year (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
• Military leave: up to 15 days with full pay
• Free telehealth and employee medical clinics (click to learn more)
• Retirement plans with employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of salary; optional 457(b) plan available (click to learn more)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness may qualify (click to learn more)
• Career progression, training opportunities, and professional growth
• State employee discounts at various businesses across the state

Salary increase: This position may be eligible for a statutory $1.00 an hour base pay increase effective July 1, 2026.

About this Opportunity

Market Inspectors inspect livestock at livestock markets to document brands and other identifying characteristics with a handheld computer device. They collect and review paperwork from livestock owners to ensure ownership is correct. Inspectors issue inspections and permits for animals moving or changing ownership near the livestock market, provide clear instruction and clarification to producers about Montana livestock regulations. The work protects the livestock industry from theft and disease. Inspectors report to the Market Supervisor and do not supervise others.

Applicant Skills and Requirements

Applicants must be experienced in quiet, safe, and efficient cattle-handling on foot and in close proximity to cattle. They must be able to spend most of the day standing and walking outdoors in any weather, maintain a high performance standard, and be patient, clear, and tactful when explaining regulations. Must be able to operate a personal computer and handheld devices, and operate a motor vehicle.

Special Information

This position may involve physical demands related to standing and walking for long periods, potentially up to 10 hours per day. Inspectors must handle livestock, move quickly, climb fences, and drive safely. Conditions may involve extreme weather, dust, and risk of injury near livestock.

Education and Experience (Required Qualifications)

• High school graduation or equivalent.
• Extensive experience handling, roping, and clipping cattle, and demonstration of safe work habits.
• Previous Department of Livestock/Market experience and/or ability to read brands is preferred.
• Must pass a background check, have an acceptable driving record, and possess a valid Montana driver's license.

Employment Eligibility

Effective March 30, 2026 the agency participates in E‑Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I‑9, information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E‑Verify, visit https://www.e-verify.gov/.

Applicant Pool Statement

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for selection.

Training Assignment

Employees may be paid below the base pay under a training assignment. Conditions will be stated in writing at hire time.

Salary

$20.70 per hour. Telework eligibility: Not telework eligible. Benefits package eligibility: Health insurance, paid leave & holidays, retirement plan.

Number of Openings

3.

Employee Status

Regular Full‑Time.

Job Type

Standard.

Shift

Day.

Travel

Yes, 5 % of the time.

Primary Location

Billings – Department of Livestock.

Posting Date

May 14, 2026. Closing date: ongoing.

Required Application Materials

Cover Letter, Resume.

Contact Information

Contact Name: Human Resources | Email: [e-mail] | Phone: 406‑444‑5684.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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.