Seed Analyst III

Seed Analyst III - Picture shows Iowa State University logo in red.### Seed Analyst IIIApply:
Ames, IA:
Full time:
Posted Today:
R20168##

Position Title:

Seed Analyst III## Job Group:

Merit## Required

Minimum Qualifications:

• Registered Seed Technologists (RST) and/or AOSA Certified (Purity and Germination) Analyst with a minimum of four years of experience testing a wide range of species; or Degree in Biological Sciences, Botany, Plant Sciences, or a related field from which one has acquired an extensive knowledge in all areas of seed analysis or equivalent post-secondary education.##

Job Description:

The Seed Science Center at Iowa State University is seeking an experienced
** Seed Analyst III
** to join our seed testing laboratory team. This position combines advanced technical seed testing with responsibility for coordinating laboratory activities, providing technical guidance to other analysts, and resolving complex testing challenges. The successful candidate will apply specialized knowledge and independent judgment across a wide range of crop species while contributing 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.
** What You'll Do
*** Perform specialized seed quality testing and analysis on a wide range of agricultural, vegetable, flower, tree, native, and specialty seed species in accordance with applicable 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 specific testing needs.
* Evaluate testing results, investigate discrepancies, and determine when additional examination or retesting is necessary 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 the 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.
** Preferred Qualifications
*** 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.
** Why Join Us?
** The Seed Science Center brings together faculty, staff, and students from across disciplines including agronomy, plant pathology, horticulture,…