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Position Title: Seed Analyst
Department: Seed Laboratory
Location: University of Nebraska East Campus, Lincoln, NE
Salary: Salary rate competitive (based on experience and qualifications)
Benefits: Health and dental insurance, life insurance, and retirement program

Position Overview

The Nebraska Crop Improvement Association (NCIA) is seeking a highly organized and detail- oriented Seed Analyst for its Seed Laboratory. The analyst will be responsible for conducting seed testing, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and maintaining accurate records.

Previous experience working under a Registered Seed Technologist (RST) or Certified Seed Analyst (CSA) is required. The successful candidate must be familiar with industry regulations and testing procedures and be able to work within established guidelines to ensure accurate results. The analyst will also use the Nebraska Seed Tracking System (NSTS) for sample processing and reporting.

This role is essential to NCIA’s mission of ensuring high-quality seed certification and testing services.

NCIA Mission:

To support and promote the production and use of high-quality seed through certification and quality assurance services, education, and collaboration with the agricultural community.
 

Vision:

To be a trusted resource for improving and assuring seed quality.

Essential Job Functions

• Seed Sample Preparation & Testing: Conduct seed tests following industry standards, including AOSA Rules for Testing Seeds and alternative methods where necessary. Perform germination, tetrazolium (TZ), purity, vigor, and herbicide bioassay tests.
• Seed Sample Examination: Identify species and determine purity, including classification of inert matter and weed seed identification.
• Regulatory Standards Compliance: Ensure all tests meet AOSA, ISTA, and Canadian rules for seed testing.
• Quality Control & Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality of customer and company information while upholding high standards of quality control.
• Professional Development: Stay up to date with industry’s best practices through workshops and professional seed association meetings.
• Database Management & Reporting: Use NSTS to manage seed sample records, verify sample accuracy, and enter test results per AOSA and NCIA protocols.
• Business Development & Expansion: Assist in promoting NCIA’s services, including seed certification and quality assurance programs.
• Other Duties as Assigned: Perform additional responsibilities as directed by the Certification Manager including the inspection of seed fields during the growing season.

Minimum Qualifications and Skills

• Previous experience working under an RST or CSA is required.
• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, biological sciences, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of seed testing methods and industry regulations.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to maintain accurate records.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team setting.
• Ability to lift 15-25 pounds and occasionally up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods.
• Willingness to walk long distances during seed field inspections.
• Comfortable working with chemicals, herbicides, and seed treatments.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• Registered Seed Technologist (RST) or Certified Seed Analyst (CSA) certification.
• Experience with genetic testing or Registered Genetic Technologist certification.
• Master’s degree (MS) in a related field.
• Experience evaluating a broad range of plant species, including seeds of native species and flowers.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

• A cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position.
• A current resume detailing your relevant experience and education.
• At least three professional references.

Please submit applications to: spageler2@unl.edu

Alternatively, applications can be mailed to: Steve Pageler
Nebraska Crop Improvement Association
P.O. Box 830911
Lincoln, NE 68583-0911