Seed Analyst III

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

About The Position

The Seed Science Center at Iowa State University is seeking an experienced Seed Analyst III to join its seed testing laboratory team. The position combines advanced technical seed testing with coordination of laboratory activities, technical guidance for other analysts, and resolution of complex testing challenges. The analyst applies specialized knowledge and independent judgment across a wide range of crop species and contributes to method development, quality assurance, and continuous improvement. The Seed Science Center and Seed Lab are internationally recognized for excellence in seed testing, research, training, accuracy, timely results, and customer service. The Center brings together faculty, staff, and students across disciplines including agronomy, plant pathology, horticulture, and engineering. The Seed Lab has served seed companies, farmers, and researchers in the United States and internationally for more than 100 years. This is a regular, full-time position with a 12-month work period. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on an ongoing basis without sponsorship; immigration sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

Registered Seed Technologist (RST) and/or AOSA Certified (Purity and Germination) Analyst with a minimum of four years of experience testing a wide range of species; or a degree in Biological Sciences, Botany, Plant Sciences, or a related field providing extensive knowledge in all areas of seed analysis; or equivalent post-secondary education.
Legally authorized to work in the United States on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Registered Seed Technologist (RST) or AOSA Certified Seed Analyst in Purity or Germination.
Significant experience performing specialized seed testing and interpreting applicable testing rules and procedures.
Experience independently performing complex seed testing, interpreting technical standards, and resolving non-routine testing issues.
Experience coordinating laboratory activities, training other analysts, or providing technical guidance and oversight.

Responsibilities

Perform specialized seed quality testing and analysis on agricultural, vegetable, flower, tree, native, and specialty seed species in accordance with industry rules, regulatory requirements, and laboratory procedures.
Identify, evaluate, and classify seeds, seedlings, and other botanical materials within assigned areas of expertise, using technical references, laboratory collections, and professional judgment to resolve complex or unusual findings.
Interpret seed testing rules and regulatory requirements to determine appropriate testing methods, classifications, and reporting procedures, exercising independent judgment when established procedures do not address testing needs.
Evaluate testing results, investigate discrepancies, and determine when additional examination or retesting is needed to ensure technical accuracy and reliability.
Coordinate daily laboratory workflow by prioritizing samples, assigning and monitoring work, and maintaining testing schedules and turnaround times.
Provide technical guidance, training, and direction to laboratory staff and student employees; verify technical competency and support consistent application of testing procedures and quality standards.
Lead or contribute to development, evaluation, and implementation of new or revised testing methods, procedures, and laboratory workflows.
Support laboratory quality assurance and accreditation activities, including audits, proficiency testing, corrective actions, equipment calibration, and maintenance of procedures and quality records.
Maintain laboratory resources and participate in professional development, technical organizations, and Seed Science Center educational and outreach activities.