FDA inspectors help safeguard the food and drug supply of Americans.
The safety of America's food and drug supply is vital to the health and well being of the nation. In 2005, there were 1,389 U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspectors, officially known as consumer safety officers, who inspected the food and drugs consumed by over 290 million Americans. FDA inspectors not only inspect suppliers located within the U.S., but foreign food and drug suppliers that export into the country as well. Each inspector performs a large volume of work and has a significant degree of responsibility. Candidates must meet stringent qualifications for consideration.
Hiring Initiative
Major food outbreaks in the late 2000s demonstrate the need for more inspectors and FDA staff. As of the date of publication, the FDA implemented a hiring initiative to hire 1,300 staff members in numerous specialties, including consumer safety officers. These officers work in the Washington, D.C. headquarters, as well as out of field offices around the country. However, the expansion in hiring does not lower the standards held for consumer safety officers.
Experience
Early FDA requirements demanded inspectors have experience working in food processing or food service, along with prior coursework in relevant areas. That is no longer the case. While experience in the food and drug industry is extremely desirable, it is no longer a mandatory requirement. Candidates who meet all other requirements and who have solid industry experience may be eligible for higher-level positions.
Education
The primary requirement for a consumer safety officer is the proper education. A bachelor's or graduate degree that includes coursework in the sciences, such as food technology, biology, chemistry, medical, science, epidemiology, nutrition, veterinary sciences and pharmacy is preferred. The FDA will accept candidates with at least 30 semester hours of coursework in these subjects in addition to suitable industry experience or educational experience.
Personal Traits and Abilities
Certain personality traits and abilities mark a solid consumer safety officer candidate. Consumer safety officers must constantly travel and work long hours, which makes flexibility in scheduling and the ability to travel crucial. Most inspections take place on-site, which may be out of the country. Candidates must work well with others and be open to other cultures. The ability to speak a foreign language is often desirable. Officers must be willing and able to fulfill the physical requirements of an inspection and know the laws regarding food safety thoroughly. Consumer safety officers must have detailed investigative skills and follow-through. A professional demeanor is also necessary, as you are acting as a representative of the federal government and must occasionally testify in court.
Tags: safety officers, consumer safety, food drug, Candidates must, Consumer safety, consumer safety officer
