Foundation Seed Production Specialist

United Phosphorus Limited (UPL); Hereford (TX); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Advanta, a part of the UPL Group, is seeking an entry-level Seed Production Associate in Hereford, Texas. The role supports pre-commercial sorghum seed production, processing, inventory management, and distribution across the United States, with emphasis on quality, traceability, and safety.

The ideal candidate will work both in the field and seed processing facility, showing attention to detail, leadership potential, and a commitment to safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field; or equivalent agricultural experience.
• Experience operating agricultural equipment or seed processing equipment.
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and data entry systems.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work in both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in varying weather conditions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated leadership ability and willingness to work across multiple teams.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the processing, treatment, packaging, labeling, and storage of all U.S. pre-commercial sorghum seed.
• Operate and maintain seed conditioning and processing equipment.
• Apply seed treatments accurately while following all stewardship and safety requirements.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure complete traceability of all seed lots.
• Package and prepare foundation seed and parent seed for hybrid seed production.
• Prepare and ship hybrid trial seed for Commercial and Technical Development teams for testing, demonstrations, and sales support.
• Conduct quality sampling and assist with seed quality evaluations.
• Maintain warehouse organization, cleanliness, and seed hygiene standards to prevent contamination from insects, rodents, weeds, or foreign material.
• Field Operations
• Assist with all phases of foundation seed production, including: Planting, Nursery management, Pollination, Threshing, Seed cleaning, Packaging, Inventory management.
• Collect accurate agronomic observations and production notes during research and foundation seed nurseries.
• Assist with rogueing, isolation maintenance, weed control, and field inspections.
• Operate tractors, sprayers, and other agricultural equipment safely and efficiently.
• Spray production fields and isolation areas when necessary.
• Assist other seed production teams as seasonal priorities require.
• Lead seasonal crews and coordinate daily work assignments.
• Communicate effectively with both English- and Spanish-speaking employees; conversational Spanish is highly preferred.
• Collaborate closely with Foundation Seed, Parent Seed, Hybrid Seed Production, Technical Development, Commercial, and Operations teams.
• Represent the Foundation Seed program professionally while building positive working relationships across departments.
• Data Management & Technology
• Maintain accurate digital records for inventory, production, shipments, and field activities.
• Enter production data into company databases with a high level of accuracy.
• Support the implementation and adoption of new technologies, software platforms, automation, drones, and digital agriculture tools.
• Continuously seek opportunities to improve operational efficiency through technology and process improvements.
• Safety & Quality
• Follow all company safety policies and actively contribute to a strong safety culture.
• Maintain high standards of seed identity preservation and quality assurance.
• Ensure compliance with all seed handling, treatment, environmental, and stewardship requirements.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and professional warehouse and work environment at all times.

Skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Leadership ability

Data entry

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agronomy / Crop Science / Agriculture / Agricultural Engineering

Tools

Seed processing equipment

Job description

Advanta, a part of the UPL Group, is seeking an entry-level Seed Production Associate in Hereford, Texas. The role supports pre-commercial sorghum seed production, processing, inventory management, and distribution across the United States, with emphasis on quality, traceability, and safety.

The ideal candidate will work both in the field and seed processing facility, showing attention to detail, leadership potential, and a commitment to safety and continuous improvement.