VoloAgri® is a Non-GMO vegetable seed technology and breeding company dedicated to Cultivating Global Health. We take pride in passionately serving every customer with customized vegetable seed and technical service solutions they can count on. Our innovative seeds produce plants with increased yields, improved disease resistance, and post-harvest processing advantages while still achieving exceptional taste! This reduces the environmental farming footprint while increasing the healthy consumption of delicious vegetables. Our diverse team of industry experts are stationed around the world. Our Global Corporate Headquarters is based in South San Francisco with our principal Operational Center in San Luis Obispo CA and satellite offices in Holland, Mexico City, and Beirut Lebanon; and trial stations in California (Morgan Hill, Woodland, and Lemoore), Lebanon (Bekaa Valley), Mexico (Guanajuato, and Culiacan), Italy and Spain. Our prized collection of seeds have been developed under several brands including US Agriseeds, California Hybrids, Catalyst Seeds and New World Seeds.

Position: Lab Manager

Job summary

Manage a standardized seed testing laboratory for a vegetable seed company. Provide timely, accurate preparation, evaluation, and recording of seed analysis in accordance to standardized testing procedures, as recognized by the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA), the Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) and the Canadian Methods and Procedures, and to provide the needed solutions to fulfill customer orders with the quality information needed.

Responsibilities

• Ensure and maintain compliance with industry standards; ensure testing methods and protocols are up to date according to the Federal Seed Act, the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA), the Canadian Methods and Procedures (M & P), and the Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA)
• Responsible for the testing of vegetable seed for germination, physical purity, vigor, moisture testing, and seed quality
• Work in cooperation with all stakeholders and provide solutions relating to testing needs and results.
• Inform Inventory, QA, Production, Customer Service, and Sampling of critical results as needed
• Work with team members in the warehouse on appropriate sampling weights and procedures as well as appropriate nomenclature for species being tested
• Proper maintenance and stocking of needed laboratory supplies and equipment
• Timely, accurate preparation, evaluation, and recording of seed analysis.
• Responsible for implementing and improving established policies and procedures
• Responsible for the quality of work coming out of the lab area
• Responsible for proper use, calibration and maintenance of lab equipment
• Support the training and coordination of technicians to ensure that analyses are completed effectively
• Initiation and implementation of continuous improvement opportunities including enhancements to safety, quality, costs and workplace environment.
• Participate in the Operations Safety Program and ensure a safe working environment.
• Communication of issues that may arise, such as supply requirements, safety concerns, or analysis irregularities.
• Responsible for maintaining standardized seed testing program, including design and maintenance of laboratory work cards and reports of analysis.
• Develop and maintain strong internal and external communication networks.
• Manage, direct, and coordinate personnel relations within the department, including appraisals, training, development and career planning to ensure an efficient and effective functioning department.
• Continual monitoring and evaluation of the department budget and expenditures.
• Promote the company safety policy, building a culture of caring.

Key Success Factors

• Timeliness and accuracy of delivered work
• Attention to detail, drives tasks to closure efficiently with error-free end result
• Excellent judgment and a business partner mentality
• Participate effectively in a demanding environment for results
• Ability to plan and execute budget targets and stay within those targets
• Managing liability
• Enhanced product image

Qualifications/Skills:

• Maintain current certification as a Registered Seed Technologist (RST) with the Society of Commercial Seed Technologists (SCST)
• Maintain laboratory ISO and ISTA accreditation by participating in applicable ISTA and SCST proficiency testing rounds, internal and external audits
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office products
• Proficient with database applications & MRP/ERP software
• Preferred background working with agricultural business
• Strong team player, self-starter, positive attitude and high integrity
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills
• Excellent communication skills (verbal & written) for effective supplier & internal staff communication
• Ability to work with a growing team at a highly competent, professional level
• Work in an office, laboratory or glasshouse/field setting
• Occasional domestic and international travel required

Education Requirements

• BA/BS in agriculture or related field preferred
• Successfully qualified for and passed the RST exam or equivalent

VoloAgri Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package for San Luis Obispo region.
• Medical & dental insurance.
• Section 125 Dependent Care plans, 401(k) Plan with Transamerica.
• Vacation, sick and holiday time off.

To Apply:

Please send your resume with a cover letter to csilva@voloagri.com with "Lab Manager" in the subject line.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.