Coordinator - Seed Quality Lab

ISU Research Park; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

ISU Research Park is seeking a hands-on Laboratory Operations Lead to manage SSL, calibration, and maintenance across the quality lab. You will coach Analysts and contractors, develop procedures, and ensure safe, compliant operations while driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Key responsibilities include leading testing, coordinating cross-functional work, and owning SSL-related KPIs. This role requires on-site leadership, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 4+ years relevant work experience (seed production, seed testing, QMS).
• Proficient to expert use of LIMS, SAP, Fiori, Excel, Planning & Reporting tools.
• Excellent leadership skills with proven ability to drive results and show strong analytical/problem-solving abilities.
• Dependable, on-site leader ensuring lab tasks are accurate and efficient.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate across teams.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and meet multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Act as a lab data manager for calibration procedures and SSL processes.
• Coordinate testing within assigned areas and fill in for Analysts as needed.
• Lead maintenance, PMs, and capital projects in the quality lab.
• Develop procedures and training materials for SSL, Treating, Deblending and Physical Purity.
• Lead HSE programs and contractor training; drive continuous improvement KPIs.
• Direct supervision of Analysts and contract staff; coach across teams.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Coaching

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

LIMS

SAP

Fiori

Excel

Planning & Reporting tools

Job description

Active involvement in lab data management; collection and analysis. Accountable for Calibration Procedure across lab activities. Develop a working understanding and aptitude for SSL, Treating, Deblend and Physical Purity functions to be able to fill in for Analysts when necessary. Coordinate testing within assigned areas.

Accountability for tracking, troubleshooting, and solving SSL issues. Accountable for ensuring accurate & timely SSL data is recorded.

Prepare procedures and training materials for all staff for SSL, Treating, Deblending and Physical Purity. Conduct testing to enable competency & proficiency.

Adhere to all relevant safety guidelines and regulations during laboratory operations. Show leadership for Goal Zero and HSE initiatives. Lead HSE related programs for Contractor training and work permits.

Identify & lead projects for SSL & Maintenance continuous improvement.

Accountable for all calibrations and PMs are done across lab. Process owner for all items involving SSL, Treating, Deblend and Physical Purity.

People leader - Direct Supervision of Analysts and contract staff. Lead & Coach FT Analysts & Contractors on proper operational procedures. Be able to coach across all team & across organization.

Coordinate and track all routine maintenance needs and capital projects in the quality lab. Utilize equipment maintenance system for PMs, spare parts lists, and failure tracking. Responsible for relationship with Parent Seed Maintenance & 3rd party staffing agencies.

Obtain Pesticide Applicator license/designation within 1 year.

Develop and Accountable for SSL & Maintenance KPIs.

Coordinate 3rd party contractor needs including sourcing, interviewing, paying, and coaching performance.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and 4+ years relevant work experience (seed production, seed testing, QMS).

Proficient to Expert use of LIMS, SAP, Fiori, Excel, Planning & Reporting tools.

Excellent leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to effectively drive results while demonstrating strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.

Dependable, on-site leader to ensure lab task are accurately and efficiently completed to build stakeholder trust.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with internal teams and cross-functional teams (i.e. SPL, Planning, Genotyping, etc.).

Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and balance multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a proactive mindset with a commitment to continuous improvement.