Seed Analyst - Lead (Germination)

State of North Carolina

8d • Onsite

About The Position

This position act as a technical advisor and provides training for lower-level seed lab technicians conducting seed analysis tests. They help direct daily activities in coordination with the purity lead and seed lab supervisor. They develop and execute quality control measures within germination evaluation and planting for evaluations. They serve as the technical advisor over germination tests to determine the percent of seeds capable of growing and determine the presence of seedborne diseases; and the performance tetrazolium chloride staining to estimate seed viability and other viability or vigor tests. This position performs other highly skilled tasks for seed analysis within the laboratory. It is encouraged for this position to become a Registered Seed Technician (RST) offered by the Association of Official Seed Analyst (AOSA). They will also provide test results information and assistance to clients in response to phone calls and email information requests. This position must be able to perform tasks which involve dexterity of the hands and the ability to visually analyze small seeds or seedlings and at limited times use of a microscope. When there are large volumes of seed samples to analyze, this position is required to assist with all aspects of laboratory work or seed analysis. This type of work can require long periods of sitting.

Requirements

• Knowledge of the techniques, terminology, and standards used in determining the germination characteristics of a variety of seeds used in the state
• Knowledge of the state and federal seed laws, rules, and regulations.
• Skills in calibrating and operating seed testing equipment such as dividers, blowers, analytical balances, calculators, germinators, mechanized purity boards and other laboratory equipment
• Ability to keep records of analysis performed and the results obtained in a computer database and general use of Microsoft products such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook.
• Ability to help direct the daily activities and train seed analysts and develop and execute quality control measures
• Associate degree in horticulture, horticulture technology, or a closely related degree and three years of experience in the analysis of seeds; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to perform tasks which involve dexterity of the hands and the ability to visually analyze small seeds or seedlings and at limited times use of a microscope.

Nice To Haves

• It is encouraged for this position to become a Registered Seed Technician (RST) offered by the Association of Official Seed Analyst (AOSA).

Responsibilities

• Act as a technical advisor and provide training for lower-level seed lab technicians conducting seed analysis tests.
• Help direct daily activities in coordination with the purity lead and seed lab supervisor.
• Develop and execute quality control measures within germination evaluation and planting for evaluations.
• Serve as the technical advisor over germination tests to determine the percent of seeds capable of growing and determine the presence of seedborne diseases; and the performance tetrazolium chloride staining to estimate seed viability and other viability or vigor tests.
• Perform other highly skilled tasks for seed analysis within the laboratory.
• Provide test results information and assistance to clients in response to phone calls and email information requests.
• Assist with all aspects of laboratory work or seed analysis when there are large volumes of seed samples to analyze.

Benefits

• Eligible state employees are entitled to comprehensive benefits, including a variety of leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree