Livestock Market Inspector- Part-Time- Sidney, MT

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 posted as "open until filled" with a first review of applications on October 6th, 2025. 

Materials Required of Applicants:  

• Cover Letter: Attach a separate cover letter that explains your interest in working for the MT Department of Livestock and describes any relevant experience you may have that qualifies you for the position. 
• Resume

• References:  References will be requested of  finalist applicants prior to making a job offer, however are not required for this part of the application process. 

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 the Department of Livestock 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: 

• 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.
• Longevity raises with continuous service, as well as any negotiated market increases and state statutory raises.
• Health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, EAP - click here to learn more.
• 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% %25 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.

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

About this Opportunity

*This position is a part-time position that will be expected to work a minimum of 20 hours per week.

The Department of Livestock is currently recruiting for a part-time Market Inspector to join our team.   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 Sidney Livestock Market in Sidney, 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:  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. 

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.

• Combinations of education and experiences will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

  • Previous Department of Livestock/Market experience is preferred.   

Conditions of employment: 

• Applicants must pass a background check, have an acceptable driving record, and possess a valid Montana driver's license.