Full-Time Seed Lab Technician

Seed analysis, or seed testing, ensures positive outcomes for every level of plant-based systems in every corner of the world. The success of a single grower to the success of an entire culture often rests on seeds germinating and establishing plants intended for food, fiber, fuel, or the restoration of natural resources. Since 1922 Illinois Crop has been a recognized leader in seed identity, purity, and quality by striving to be an outstanding provider of seed testing services. The organization's seed laboratory currently tests over 800 kinds (species) of seed, including row crops, grains/cereals, grass/turf, forage, vegetables, native species, and more. We are looking for someone to join our team of professionals as a seed technician.

The seed laboratory's mission is to deliver its customers the most reliable and accurate testing results. The lab supports seed producers, sellers, buyers, and regulators through germination, seed purity, seed vigor, and other testing services. The laboratory is accredited under the ISO/IEC 17025 standard and recognized by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency as a foreign seed testing laboratory. Analysts in leadership positions are individually accredited as Registered or Certified members of the Society of Commercial Seed Technologists. Select analysts are accredited as Canadian seed graders.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Seed Technicians conduct tests such as germination, vigor, purity, and seed identification
• Seed Technicians are responsible for accurate performance, evaluation, and data collection
• Seed Technicians with enough experience may assist in method modification, new method development, and statistical validations
• Seed Technicians report directly to the Seed Lab Director and secondarily to the Seed Lab Assistant Director
• Seed Technicians are committed to superior seed testing through continuous improvement as stipulated in Illinois Crop Improvement's quality policy International Standards Organization (ISO) quality policy

General Requirements

• Agriculture related background or related field
• Knowledge of seed testing and seed quality is preferred, but not required
• Must be able to communicate with co-workers
• Must be able to work independently and as a member of a team
• Must be able to use computers, iPads, and collect data electronically
• Must be able to perform laboratory activities such as counting, dividing, planting, evaluation, separating, purity analysis, discarding seed samples, cleaning, and general maintenance
• Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods
• Must be able to work with supplies and chemicals relating to seed testing
• Must be able to lift and carry samples, supplies, and equipment as necessary
• Must be willing to accept a time commitment that will involve work weeks that exceed 40 hours and may include weekend work and some travel (Monday – Friday is typical 40-hour work weeks with up to 48-hour weeks when overtime is implemented)
• Must agree to the employee handbook and confidentiality agreement in writing

Additional Information

• The description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by the individual in this position. It is not an exclusive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be required

Pay and Benefits

• Starting pay is $15.00 per hour commensurate on experience
• Company supported Health insurance available the date of hire
• Vacation, sick, and paid holidays available for use after successfully completing a 30-day introductory period
• Company supported life and disability insurance options available the date of hire
• 401k program with up to 3% company match program and 3% safe harbor contributions

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Work Location: In person