The Minnesota Cop Improvement Association (MCIA) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Seed Technologist.  The incumbent will conduct purity, germination, and other tests on certification and service seed samples, and evaluate results to determine conformance to certification standards. The incumbent will assist the Laboratory Manager in implementing a Quality Management System.  Selected individual will be involved in grow-out and field inspection activities.

This full-time position offers a competitive salary and full benefits. The position is housed at the MCIA Office located at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Possess and exercise advance knowledge of the seed testing rules for a variety of seed kinds, including agricultural and native species.
• Exercise consistent discretion and judgment in seed testing evaluations. Ensure compliance to the state, OECD and Canadian seed certification standards and noxious weed seed laws. *
• Conduct purity, germination, vigor, tetrazolium, herbicide bioassay and other tests on certification and service samples according to current AOSA, ISTA, and Canadian seed testing rules. *
• Evaluate tests and finalize results to determine seed lot conformance to seed certification standards. *
• Advise clients about MCIA requirements and test results; respond to customer inquiries in a timely and professional manner. *
• Perform field inspections, audits and other seasonal duties, as required. Ensure compliance to the seed certification standards and noxious weed seed laws. *
• Assist in the development and implementation of a Quality Management System (QMS) for the lab.
• Assist in training part time staff, may assign tasks. 
• Assist with seed certification grow out activities.
• Serve on specified MCIA, SCST or other assigned committees.
• Responsible for proper use, assist with calibration and maintenance of lab equipment.

* Essential Functions

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Knowledgeable of seed testing procedures.

Preferred Qualifications:

• B.S. in Agronomy or agriculture related field.
• Knowledgeable of certification standards and procedures.
• Possess recognized AOSA/SCST certifications in seed germination and/or purity testing, or willingness to pursue certification in the first two years of employment.
• Basic understanding of Quality Management Systems.

Skills/Physical Demands:

• Ability to work with limited supervision, highly self-motivated.
• Ability to move through narrow row spacing of a variety of crops and uneven terrain to perform field inspection work.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions.
• Able to remain in stationary positions for extended periods of time to conduct a variety of seed testing tasks.
• Able to use seed testing equipment to test seed to perform seed testing and evaluations.
• Possess solid math and analytical skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Possess computer skills, and working knowledge of MS Office.
• Accurate, efficient and detail oriented.
• Willingness to travel, primarily within Minnesota.  Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Promote good work ethics, positive attitude and teamwork environment.
• Promote and ensure excellence in customer service.

How to Apply:

Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest and resume to employment@mncia.org or mail to Fawad Shah, MCIA, 1900 Hendon Ave, Saint Paul MN 55108 by Friday, October 5, 2018.

Minnesota Crop Improvement Association is an EEO Employer.