|
Where do inspectors work?
(return to top)
By law, most commercial wildlife shipments come through
17"
designated ports
" -
Anchorage, Alaska; Atlanta, Georgia; Baltimore, Maryland;
Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; Dallas, Texas;
Honolulu, Hawaii; Houston, Texas; Los Angeles, California; Louisville, Kentucky;
Memphis, Tennessee; Miami, Florida;
New Orleans, Louisiana; New York, New York/Newark, New Jersey;
Portland, Oregon; San Francisco, California; and Seattle,
Washington. The Service operates wildlife inspection offices
in these cities. Inspectors also staff 11 locations along
the Mexican and Canadian borders and five additional ports
that handle specific types of wildlife traffic.
What do inspectors do?
(return to top)
The United States is one of the world's largest markets
for wildlife and wildlife products. High-volume "live" traffic
includes exotic reptiles, tropical fish, and primates. Manufactured
products (such as boots, shoes, purses, jewelry, caviar,
and meats) and less "processed" wildlife items
(such as hunting trophies, feathers, furs, skins, raw coral,
and shells) are also common.
Wildlife inspectors must understand and enforce a range
of U. S. and international
laws, regulations, and treaties that protect wildlife and
limit commercial traffic in endangered animals and plants.
They must be able to identify thousands of different species,
both live and as "parts" or products.
Inspectors clear legal imports and exports, and stop shipments
that violate the law. They make sure that wildlife imports
and exports are accompanied by the required permits and
licenses, and verify that the contents of shipments match
the items listed on declaration forms. They pay special
attention to live wildlife, checking to see that animals
in transit are treated humanely.
Although inspectors spend most of their time processing
commercial cargo shipments, they also keep tabs on international
passenger traffic. Unwary travelers all too often return
from abroad with illegal wildlife souvenirs. Many smuggling
rings use human couriers; inspectors find protected animals
hidden in clothing and stuffed in suitcases and handbags.
Wildlife inspectors work closely with Service special agents
and counterparts from
Customs and Border Protection and other Federal agencies
that police international trade. They staff special enforcement
task forces that conduct inspection blitzes at international
mail processing facilities, or target specific enforcement
problems, such as the import and sale of medicinal products
made from endangered species.
Outreach is also an important part of the job. Inspectors
meet with customs brokers, trade associations, international
travelers, and hunters going abroad to explain wildlife
import/export rules and regulations. They are popular guest
speakers at schools, nature centers, community conservation
programs, and environmental fairs.
How do I become a wildlife inspector?
(return to top)
New inspectors are recruited locally when vacancies occur.
Openings are announced by regional Service personnel offices.
Inspectors typically join the Service at the GS-5, 7, or
9 level, depending on their education and experience. Knowledge
of wildlife taxonomy and zoology is especially helpful.
A background in criminal justice, communication skills,
and computer literacy are also useful.
Are there any special requirements?
(return to top)
Wildlife inspectors work in airport cargo facilities, passenger
terminals, dock warehouses, and border check stations. They
must be comfortable handling live animals and fit enough
to lift heavy cartons and cases. Wildlife inspectors wear
uniforms while on duty. Some inspections require protective
clothing and special safety equipment. Because international
trade is an around-the-clock business, inspectors sometimes
work on weekends or at night. They must have a valid state
driver's license and be able to operate a government-owned
car, van, or pickup truck.
What opportunities exist for training and career advancement?
(return to top)
All new wildlife inspectors complete a four-week basic training
program at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in
Glynco, Georgia, and receive on-the-job instruction and
guidance. Annual "in-service" training programs
give seasoned inspectors a chance to enhance job skills
and review regulatory and procedural changes.
Career ladders for wildlife inspectors in the field reach
the GS-11 level; GS-12 supervisory positions are available
at some ports. Law enforcement headquarters staff include
senior wildlife inspectors who advise Service management
on wildlife inspection policies and issues. Inspectors have
opportunities to work on special enforcement task forces
and complete short-term assignments in the headquarters
office.
What benefits do inspectors earn?
(return to top)
Wildlife inspectors enjoy all the benefits of Federal employment,
including a generous retirement plan with substantial investment
opportunities. Inspectors earn 13 to 26 days of annual leave
each year depending on how long they have been employed.
Benefits also include 13 days of paid sick leave per year;
basic life insurance and low-cost options for additional
coverage; a free yearly physical examination; and opportunities
to participate in a variety of reasonably priced health
insurance plans.
|
