GA Seed Network Field Technician, State Botanical Garden at Dry Branch, GA

GA Seed Network Field Technician

Position held by the University of Georgia, State Botanical Garden, based at the Forest Service National Seed Laboratory in Dry Branch, GA.

The Seeds of Success (SOS) program is a national native seed conservation initiative led by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in partnership with organizations across the United States. This position focuses on collection, processing, testing, and long‑term conservation of genetically diverse native plant seeds for restoration, research, and conservation. The incumbent will provide technical assistance by performing a variety of recurring and moderately complex laboratory tests, processing and cleaning seed collections, and supporting the national seed lab’s quality management system.

Funding is secured for three years, with the potential for extension.

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Practical knowledge of biological science methods and the ability to understand and perform technical duties common to seed testing laboratories.
• Knowledge of data gathering techniques to select and adapt alternatives without compromising data validity and reliability.
• Ability to recognize various stages of seed and plant development, including cone and seed maturity, seedling growth, health, and pest-related plant biology, taxonomy, anatomy, ecology, and physiology, to ensure accurate seed analysis.
• Knowledge of technical terminology used in the seed laboratory, nursery, and seed extraction, and skill in applying such knowledge to perform assigned duties.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks and operate equipment used to collect samples.
• Analytical ability to perform routine mathematical calculations and keep detailed, precise records used to prepare technical reports.
• Skill in using standard laboratory and field equipment with dexterity to perform assigned duties.
• Basic knowledge of accepted safety practices to prevent injury and loss of life.

• Be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Work environment requires normal safety precautions and use of protective clothing, boots, gloves, goggles, dust mask, ear protection, and other gear.
• Use of chemicals or other products that require MSDS guidelines and instructions.
• Work primarily performed in a seed laboratory, with occasional work in a seed processing plant or nursery exposed to rain, wind, or unfavorable temperatures.
• Work may include cooler or freezer environments with extreme cold temperatures.
• Employees must exercise safe work practices in all workstations.
• Prolonged laboratory work often requires magnification aids and microscopes.
• Manual dexterity required for tweezers and other instruments for detailed seed examination.
• Occasional field work at seed processing plants or nurseries will occur outdoors.
• Stamina to work long periods evaluating seed and seedlings.

• Conduct routine laboratory tests (moisture content, purity, seed count, full seed, germination) to determine seed quality.
• Maintain and operate specialized laboratory equipment.
• Record test data and prepare reports following established guidelines.
• Assist in developing and documenting experimental testing methods.
• Follow seed processing protocols.
• Use tools and equipment to clean and upgrade seed collections.
• Document steps to develop new seed processing protocols.
• Collaborate with staff to clean, maintain, package, and ship germplasm conservation seed collections for long‑term storage.
• Manage and record actions as necessary to meet quality management system requirements.
• Any other tasks related to the project requested by the supervisor.

• Collect seeds from native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants.

• Assist SBG/NSL staff in conducting tours, training, field days and other technology transfer activities appropriate to the position.
• Present work at professional conferences and public forums.

• Complete required training by UGA and NSL to maintain access to job‑critical systems.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb).

40 hours a week, 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday with some flexibility depending on field work and seed viability.

Advertised Salary: $39,000.