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

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

Posting Number: S14775P

Posting Date: 02/25/2026

Closing Date: 04/20/2026

Location: Dry Branch, GA (outside Athens)

Employment Type: Full Time, 40 hours/week

Advertised Salary: $39,000

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Not specified

The Seeds of Success (SOS) program is a national native seed conservation initiative led by the Bureau of Land Management in partnership with organizations across the United States. The program focuses on collection, processing, testing, and long‑term conservation of genetically diverse native plant seeds for restoration, research, and conservation. This position is located at the Forest Service National Seed Laboratory in Dry Branch, GA.

The incumbent provides technical assistance to professional and technical personnel 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 and the term may be extended if additional revenue lines are secured.

• Practical knowledge of methods and techniques in biological science and ability to understand instructions to accomplish technical duties common to seed testing laboratories.
• Knowledge of data‑gathering techniques to select appropriate alternatives without compromising data validity and reliability.
• Ability to recognize stages of seed and plant development, including cone and seed maturity, seedling growth, health, pest‑related plant biology, taxonomy, anatomy, ecology, and physiology to ensure accurate seed analysis.
• Knowledge of technical terminology used in a seed laboratory, nursery, and seed extraction, and skill in applying such knowledge to perform assigned duties.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks and operate sample‑collecting equipment.
• Analytical ability to perform routine calculations and maintain detailed records for technical reports.
• Skill in using standard laboratory and field equipment, with dexterity.
• Basic knowledge of safety practices to prevent injury.

• Lift 50 pounds.
• Follow safety precautions and use protective equipment.
• Use chemicals with MSDS guidelines.
• Work primarily in a laboratory; sometimes in a seed processing plant or nursery.
• Operate in cooler or freezer temperatures.
• Possible exposure to rain, wind, or unfavorable temperatures during field work.
• Maintain safe work practices at all stations.
• Use magnification aids and microscopes at laboratory workstation.
• Use tweezers and instruments for detailed seed examination.
• Perform occasional field work outdoors.
• Stamina to evaluate seeds and seedlings for extended periods.

• 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 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 to meet quality management system requirements.
• Perform other tasks as requested by supervisor.

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

• Assist staff in conducting tours, training, field days, and other technology transfer activities.
• Present work at professional conferences and public forums.

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

Driving is a responsibility.

Position of Trust:
Yes.

Financial resources access:
No.

P‑Card required:
No.

Direct interaction with children under 18:
No.

Security Access:
Yes.

Credit Check required:
No.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check, confirmation of credentials and employment history, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. A pre‑employment drug test may be required for high‑risk positions.

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, veteran status, or other protected status.

Recruitment Contact: Zach Wood
Email:
Zachary.

Wood