Occupations safety and health inspectors and mine inspectors also work for the Department of Labor, as well as for many State governments. Immigration inspectors are employed by the Department of Justice. Customs inspectors work for the Treasury Department. Like agricultural quarantine inspectors, immigration and customs inspectors work at U.S. airports, seaports, and border crossing points, and at foreign airports and seaports. Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement Because of the diversity of functions, qualifications for inspector and compliance officer jobs differ greatly.
Requirements are a combination of education, experience, and a written examination.
Employers generally prefer applicants with college training, including course-work related to the job. Food inspectors must have related experience and pass an examination based on specialized knowledge. Aviation safety inspectors must have considerable experience in aviation maintenance and knowledge of the industry and relevant Federal laws. In addition, FAA mechanic or pilot and medical certificates are required. Some also are required to have an FAA flight instructors rating.