Pathology Technologist

Sakata Seed America•Burlington, WA

21h

About The Position

Conduct routine and specialized seed health assays to detect and identify seedborne pathogens using microbiological, pathological, serological, and molecular methods. Perform, troubleshoot, and interpret diagnostic tests; maintain accurate laboratory records and databases; and ensure compliance with quality and biosafety standards. Isolate, identify, and preserve pathogen cultures, support assay development and validation, and maintain laboratory equipment. Collaborate with pathology, seed health, and breeder support teams to deliver reliable seed health and diagnostic results and support seed health research objectives. Perform laboratory maintenance and other assigned pathology and microbiology activities. The position involves routine and advanced seed health assays, growth chamber and greenhouse bioassays, sample and data management, pathogen culture maintenance, and support for research and development. The role has no supervisory responsibilities, though it requires the ability to train and lead personnel in specified technical applications.

Requirements

Basic knowledge of microbiology, plant pathogens, chemistry, math, and biology.
Good oral and written communication skills and organizational skills.
Ability to develop excellent laboratory skills in microbiology and chemistry.
Ability to adapt quickly and be receptive to changing work demands, techniques, and approaches.
Ability to perform accurate, detailed work under time constraints and deadlines, and adjust to seasonal workload surges.
Ability to perform routine and repetitive work for several hours in a laboratory or greenhouse.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Accuracy, efficiency, good dexterity, and visual acuity.
Competency in data management and computer applications.
Ability to handle stress, including during projects, deadlines, and periods of high workload.
Ability to work under strict time constraints and requirements.
Willingness to take on a wide variety of tasks and duties.
Ability to train and lead personnel in specified technical applications.
Bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology, or a related field, or an associate degree in microbiology with 3 to 5 years of experience in related areas such as plant pathology or seed health.
Willingness to work overtime, including some weekends and holidays, as requested.
Ability to work with laboratory chemicals, pesticides, and other potentially irritating substances.
Ability to wear personal protective equipment, such as gloves, a respirator, and a lab coat, when necessary or required.
Ability to stand, sit, and/or bend for several hours at a time.
Ability to handle lightweight items weighing less than 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

Conduct seed health assays, including sample preparation, test implementation, evaluation, data recording, and laboratory cleanup. Assays may include seed extraction, liquid plating, blotter assays, and grow-out tests.
Assist the Plant Pathologist in evaluating, troubleshooting, and interpreting microbiological, pathological, serological, and molecular diagnostic assays.
Support method development, validation, quality assurance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Conduct growth chamber and greenhouse bioassays to assess the virulence of bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens, including host propagation, inoculation, disease evaluation, data collection, and result interpretation.
Receive and log seed samples, schedule routine tests, and maintain laboratory records through sample entry, data entry, retrieval, and reporting systems.
Isolate, identify, preserve, and maintain plant pathogen cultures and reference collections.
Prepare and maintain culture media, buffers, reagents, and other laboratory supplies.
Support research and development activities related to seed health, seed production, disease diagnostics, and breeding programs.
Assist with special projects and pathology-related assignments as directed.
Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with biosafety and quality standards.
Perform routine laboratory organization, sanitation, and housekeeping.
Perform other duties as assigned.