Technical Project Specialist I

Iowa State University • Nevada, IA

1d

About The Position

The Iowa Crop Improvement Association (ICIA) at Iowa State University is seeking a Technical Project Specialist I to manage and support seed certification, field inspections, and crop performance research. This hands-on role combines technical work with program coordination, data management, and part-time team supervision, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to two historically significant programs that directly impact Iowa agriculture.
The Iowa Crop Improvement Association (ICIA) is a small, highly efficient team with a long-standing legacy and significant contributions to agriculture in Iowa and beyond. This role connects you to a historic organization that has led seed certification since 1942 and operates one of the world’s most respected yield trial programs, founded in 1919 by Henry Wallace. ICIA’s work comes full circle: helping farmers make informed decisions, supporting crop improvement, and providing scholarships funded by some of the university’s largest endowments. You will have the opportunity to work with two unique programs and be part of a team that values hands-on work, quality, and innovation, making this a deeply rewarding role.
ICIA is a nonprofit organization designated by Chapter 177 of the Iowa Legislature as Iowa’s official seed certifying agency. Through its seed certification and crop performance testing programs, ICIA advances agricultural science, directly supports farmers, and helps cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree
• Drivers License

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agronomy or field-oriented agriculture degree.
• Class A CDL License
• Part 107 Remote Pilot’s License
• Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License, parts A, B, & C

Responsibilities

• Conduct seed identity and purity analysis and prepare samples for growouts.
• Assist with the coordination of seed certification programs for corn, soybean, and small grains, including field inspections across Iowa.
• Validate certification applications and maintain accurate records for inspections and certified seed lots.
• Monitor inspection quality and ensure compliance with AOSCA and USDA-OECD accreditation standards.
• Assist with specialized programs such as statewide phytosanitary and moisture meter inspections.
• Help with the collection of field data and reporting for research projects and crop performance trials.
• Respond to customer inquiries regarding certification, inspections, and program requirements.
• Serve as liaison to industry and university partners and support organizational initiatives.
• Participate in professional development and stay current with seed certification and field research standards.

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level