Position Number: 22088637
County: Saline; Clark; Columbia; Garland; Hempstead; Hot Spring; Howard; Lafayette; Little River; Miller; Montgomery; Nevada; Ouachita; Pike; Polk; Sevier
Posting End Date: April 10, 2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: $55,930
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Hiring Authority: Billy Black
Billy.Black@arkansas.gov
(501) 454-0124
As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.
Frequent travel is required.
Job Series: Agriculture Law Enforcement – Career Path
Classification: Agriculture Enforcement Agent I
Class Code: SAL01P
Pay Grade: LES03
Salary Range: $55,930 - $82,776
The Agriculture Enforcement Agent I is responsible for conducting inspections, enforcing agricultural laws, and ensuring compliance with state statutes and rules related to timber, livestock, crops, food safety, and environmental protection. This enforcement role involves investigating crimes within the agricultural community such as timber theft, livestock theft, logging and farm equipment theft or vandalism, wildland arson, monitoring agricultural operations, investigating potential violations, and educating stakeholders on regulatory requirements.
Enforce Arkansas agricultural laws and regulations related to food safety, pesticide use, livestock health, and environmental protection.
Conduct routine patrols and inspections of farms, processing facilities, livestock auctions, and agricultural businesses.
Identify and report violations such as improper pesticide use, livestock mistreatment, or biosecurity breaches.
Issue warnings, citations, or notices of noncompliance when necessary.
Perform onsite evaluations to ensure compliance with agricultural health and safety standards.
Investigate complaints related to livestock theft, timber theft, logging and farm equipment theft or vandalism, wildland arson, food contamination, and agricultural fraud.
Collect evidence, take statements, and document findings for official reports and legal proceedings.
Assist in disease control efforts by monitoring biosecurity measures and quarantine protocols.
Respond to agriculture-related emergencies, including disease outbreaks, food safety incidents, and natural disasters impacting agricultural operations.
Support law enforcement agencies in recovering stolen livestock and investigating agricultural crimes.
Work collaboratively with state and local agencies to mitigate threats to public health and safety.
Provide guidance and educational resources to farmers, ranchers, and agricultural business owners regarding compliance requirements.
Represent the agency at agricultural fairs, industry conferences, and community events.
Maintain detailed records and reports related to inspections, enforcement actions, and investigations.
Collaborate with senior enforcement agents and agency officials on regulatory initiatives.
Assist forestry personnel in fire suppression efforts.
Wildland arson investigations.
Knowledge of Arkansas agricultural laws, policies, and enforcement procedures.
Ability to conduct investigations, document evidence, and enforce compliance.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy in reporting violations and legal documentation.
Strong verbal and written communication skills for preparing reports and engaging with the public.
Ability to de-escalate conflicts and handle enforcement interactions professionally.
Ability to analyze complex regulatory issues and develop solutions.
Sound judgment in assessing violations and taking appropriate enforcement action.
Capacity to work independently and make informed decisions in the field.
Ability to work autonomously in diverse environments while maintaining compliance with agency policies.
Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with local, state, and federal agencies.
Ability to pass physical fitness test.
At least three years of investigative experience in law enforcement.
Licensure/Certifications:
Certified Law Enforcement officer with the State of Arkansas.
OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.
Certified Law Enforcement officer with the State of Arkansas.
OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
When you work for the State of Arkansas, you have the unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others through the delivery of critical services. Whether improving the lives of others through workforce development, critical infrastructure repair, foster care placement, emergency response, blockchain technology, or forestry preservation, state employees add significant value to the lives of all Arkansans.
