SEED ANALYST (Guthrie Agricultural Center, Guthrie, WV)

West Virginia Department of Agriculture

Position Description

Job Title : Seed Analyst / Microscopist - INTERNAL CANDIDATES ONLY

Division : Laboratory Services

Headquarters: Guthrie Agricultural Center, Charleston, WV

Reports To: Assistant Director

Supervisor

Responsibility : None

FLSA Status : Non-Exempt

Nature of Work :

Analyzes samples for seed germination and purity to determine seed quality for purposes of law enforcement, labeling, and general information. Examines multiple sample types microscopically to identify the presence of adulterants, contaminants, and ingredients.

Examples of Work :

- Determines the type and extent of testing required to determine the quality of the seed/feed samples submitted for analysis.

- Performs and evaluates standard germination testing on samples submitted utilizing the standard techniques, principles, and practices set forth by the Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) and other professional and testing organizations to determine normal, abnormal, hard, and dead seedlings.

- Performs and evaluates purity analysis on submitted samples to identify the kind and variety of pure seed, agricultural seed, weed seed, and inert material present and expressed on a percentage/weight basis. Also identifies and reports noxious weed seed and their rate of occurrence per unit weight on samples submitted. These evaluations are made in accordance to the standard techniques, principles, and practices of the AOSA.

- Analyzes and interprets germination and purity results in order to assist in the administration of laws, regulations, and/or specifications relating to the composition of the seed samples submitted.

- Performs and evaluates microscopic, chemical, and physical testing on samples in order to identify their components guided by the principles and techniques of analytical chemistry and microscopy and by methods devised by professional and testing organizations.

- Performs any other related tests in accordance with standard methodology in evaluating a sample as to its quality.

- Performs routine inspection and maintenance and calibration of equipment involved in the evaluation of samples.

- Develops and maintains quality assurance measures to ensure that analytical methods for the Seed / Microscopy Laboratory are under control and in compliance with established standards.

- Recognizes needs of the laboratory and reports them to supervision in the form of requests and/or requisitions.

- Develops and maintains a computer database with all sample information and test results to be shared with the Registration Specialist/Compliance Officer for purposes of law enforcement, reports, and billing.

- Prepares official reports and may be called upon to testify before the court or the Commissioner.

- Prepares monthly and annual statistical reports on laboratory testing completed in those time periods.

- Works closely with other state officials, as well as other state government officials and USDA on food, seed, and plant health related issues.

- Handles samples and performs analyses according to SOPs and test methods.

- Writes SOPs and test methods.

- Performs analyses involving the formulation of new or the revision of existing standards; refers results to a superior for advice and/or final decision.

- Signs reports when designated with signing authority.

- Reports deficiencies or malfunctions to the Assistant Director.

- Identifies and records nonconformities on Corrective Action Requests.

- Identifies and recording potential nonconformities on Preventive Action Requests.

- Corrects nonconformities and potential nonconformities.

- Improves laboratory and/or quality activities on a continuous basis.

- Performs related work as required, such as assisting other division analysts as needed.

- Other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions :

Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods of time; frequently bend, squat, reach above shoulder level, push, pull, and handle objects and capable of lifting up to 50 pounds. Employment may require working with pathogenic microorganisms, hazardous chemicals such as disinfectants, acids, bases, mutagens, teratogens, and solvents; hot liquids, steam, and hot solid surfaces capable of burns. Also, warm, humid conditions can be found in the laboratory environment. Personal protective equipment is supplied and required for laboratory staff. Some jobs require employees to be exposed to unpleasant odors.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :

- Knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures of seed technology, microscopy, botany, biology, and related organic and inorganic chemistry.

- Knowledge of the source materials in the fields of seed technology and botany, as well as microscopy.

- Knowledge of see germination and purity analysis techniques, as well as microscopy techniques.

- Working knowledge of computer operations, relational database programs, and data entry and analysis.

- Skills in manipulative techniques and in following standard scientific laboratory methods.

- Skilled in the use of laboratory instruments and equipment commonly used in analytical laboratories, including both stereo and compound microscopes.

- Ability to plan, evaluate, and complete work activities in a timely manner.

- Ability to review work of other seed analysts / microscopists (when applicable) engaged in testing activities.

- Ability to prepare analytical reports and to organize and present information in a clear and concise manner.

Minimum Qualifications :

Education:

Graduation from an accredited 4-year college or university with a major in plant or animal science, biology, or related physical science.

Experience:

One year of employment in carrying out technical work in the laboratory preferred.

Substitutions:

Graduate study in related laboratory science may be substituted for the required experience on a year for year basis.

Licenses/ Certifications:

Additional Requirements :

- Valid driver’s license is required.

- Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug testing.

- Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.

- Must maintain a positive image of the Commissioner, West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

This description is subject to review and revision at the discretion of the Commissioner of Agriculture and designees.

West Virginia Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer.