Company Profile

Nunhems, a subsidiary of Bayer CropScience, is the global specialist in vegetable genetics and services. We build unique customer relationships and share products, concepts and expertise with the professional horticultural production industry and supply chain. With an extensive range of 28 crops and some 2,500 varieties, Nunhems is present in all major vegetable production areas in the world.

Responsibilities

Performance and execution of Quality Control testing of seed lots in Seed Health according to accredited protocols, procedures and Nunhems guidelines.

Quality Control tests & procedures

• Ensure performance of Quality Control tests according to accredited standards, procedures, work instructions and annexes.
• Within established global guidelines, execute all special projects and non-routine processes in order to ensure that all required tests are performed in a timely and accurate manner.
• Receive and file test samples.
• Prepare, plant/perform and evaluate Quality Control tests on vegetable seeds in the Quality Control laboratory, greenhouse or field.
• Register daily work and results into the company computer system.
• File test records.
• Participate in auditing sessions ensuring that all global standard operating procedures are kept in line.
• Actively cooperate to implement and follow corrective and preventive actions based on the outcome of both internal and external audits.
• Ensure hygiene according to guidelines.
• Perform other duties or responsibilities as required or assigned.

Seed Health Specifications

• Perform complex test methods like ELISA, PCR, Bioassay.
• Ensure accurate description and specification of pathogens and disease symptoms during test evaluation.
• Understand basic microbiological principles of various steps of test procedure like media preparation, culture preparation and maintenance, pathogen handling, bioassay.
• Operate and maintain sensitive and critical equipment involved in various HTH testing procedures. (Spectrophotometer, ELISA reader, media clave, centrifuge, micropipettes, PCR machines)
• Understand the importance and nature of chemicals, media ingredients and other consumables and ensure the standards/specifications are met while ordering and using them.
• Handle quarantine pathogens according to company hygiene policy and procedures.
• Ensure test result processing procedures are followed (i.e.: cfu calculation, ELISA results interpretation).

Reporting

• Inform team leader(s) of all on-going departmental activities, progress on objectives, issues and concerns through continual communication.

Safety

• Understand and follow all safety policies and procedure in accordance with corporate, local, state and federal mandates to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Maintain good housekeeping practices for all assigned areas of responsibility in order to achieve a safe work environment.
• Participate and maintain awareness of all affected health and safety responsibilities within each discipline.
• Inform supervisor or QHSE representative about all health and safety concerns.

Key Success Factors

•  Accuracy and consistency in application of test protocols with timely results.
• Standard operating procedures, work instructions and annexes are followed in accordance with international accrediting agency.
• Positive image of company position in regards to Quality Control: accurate, open communication, reliable.
• Safe and environmentally friendly working environment.

Educational Qualifications Desired

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences is required.
• Experience in seed or plant pathology is preferred.
• Independent Thinking and Judgment
• Understanding of biological and chemical processes
• Ability to troubleshoot test and equipment performance
• Ability to manage test exceptions

Skills and Experience Desired

• Detail and quality oriented. Able to perform repetitive work while maintaining interest.
• Ability to complete tasks in a timely and professional manner with concrete deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively in a diverse team environment maintaining mutual respect.
• Ability to take initiative and ownership of tasks.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable with computes and basic MS software.

Working conditions

• Work is conducted in a field, greenhouse, laboratory and office setting.
• Handling of chemicals, antibiotics and seeds treated with fungicides and insecticides is required.
• Long periods of walking or standing, bending, twisting and/or sitting performing repetitive tasks.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds / 13.5 kilograms.
• Some Domestic and International travel may be required.
• Some exposure to heat and dust may be required

For more information about Nunhems or to apply for this position, please visit www.nunhems.com.

Nunhems USA, Inc. offers a competitive wage base and benefits program.
Nunhems USA, Inc. is an EOE with a drug free work environment.