JOB TITLE: SEED ANALYST

JOB CODE: 52470

DEFINITION: This is advanced technical work conducting laboratory (lab) testing and seed sample analyses to certify and ensure proper labeling of seeds distributed in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

An employee in this job performs purity and germination testing on uniformed seed samples to verify seed quality and viability in accordance with laws, regulations, and required industry standards. Work involves identifying and categorizing common and uncommon seed species to determine appropriate purity testing methods; conducting physical purity, noxious weed content, and germination seed exams; and generating, reviewing, and interpreting lab results and reporting discrepancies to supervisor for regulatory action. Work includes maintaining seed sample data and cleaning and maintaining lab equipment. Work is performed independently and reviewed by a technical supervisor through the evaluation of work methods and techniques, reports, and conferences.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Operates seed laboratory equipment to mix, sub sample, and weigh seed varieties.

• Separates seed working samples into four components (pure seed, other crop seeds, inert matter, and weed seed) and identifies species by botanical name.

• Weighs seed components and computes percentages by weight to estimate plant traits, including growth rate, size, and root depth.

• Plants seeds on prescribed substratum material profile, such as soil or rock, and places in controlled environments for germinating.

• Compares purity and germination information on labels with testing results and reports discrepancies to supervisor.

• Assists Seed Laboratory Supervisors with conducting Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) referee and proficiency testing to support industry-wide seed standards and new testing methods.

• Performs germination retests with AOSA alternate testing methods to obtain accurate tolerances for cultivating fresh and dormant seeds.

• Maintains records and prepares reports on seed tests and analyses conducted.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of seed terminology and testing techniques.

• Knowledge of lab equipment operation, adjustment, and maintenance.

• Knowledge of seed laws and regulations.

• Knowledge of Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) rules for germination and purity testing.

• Ability to identify seeds and seed sample mixtures.

• Ability to conduct purity and germination seed examinations.

• Ability to perform mathematical calculations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities)

• Two years of experience as a Plant Industry Laboratory Technician (Commonwealth title) performing seed testing work;

or

• Two years of technical experience performing seed testing in a laboratory setting subject to standards set forth by the Association of Official Seed Analysts, and three years of technical laboratory experience in the plant industry field;

or

• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• All employees must obtain certification as a Certified Viability Technologist (CVT) or Certified Seed Analyst - Germination (CSA-G) within two years of the date of hire