You could start by taking a degree in a relevant subject like:

• science
• maths
• environmental health
• agriculture

Some universities offer a foundation degree in agriculture as preparation for working in the agricultural sector.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

The following courses may help you to work towards this role:

• Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Agriculture
• Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Agriculture

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

To apply directly to become an agricultural inspector, you'll usually need A levels or equivalent and at least 2 years' relevant work experience, for example as an agricultural machine operator.

A professional qualification in health and safety would also be useful, for example a course offered through NEBOSH or IOSH.

You'll need:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to analyse quality or performance
• customer service skills
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Your day to day duties will depend on where you work.

For the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), you could:

• check machinery, buildings and the working environment
• investigate accidents and complaints
• write reports and make recommendations

For the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), you could:

• collect and analyse data
• check record keeping on farms
• investigate animal welfare concerns
• plan the control and prevention of animal disease

For food assurance standards, you could:

• inspect the health and welfare of livestock
• check food crop production methods
• ensure records and documents are kept up to date

You could work in an office or on a farm.

Your working environment may be noisy and dirty.

You may need to wear protective clothing.