Seed Analyst II

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

The Seed Science Center at Iowa State University seeks a Seed Analyst II to join our seed testing laboratory team. You will work with a wide range of seed types, applying biology and analytical skills to evaluate seed quality and ensure labeling accuracy.

You will perform specialized seed testing, contribute to QA, train staff and student employees, and help develop expertise in seed science in a hands-on role.

Qualifications

• Two years experience in seed analysis, including one year as Seed Analyst I or equivalent.
• Knowledge of seed laws and the Rules for Testing Seeds.
• Experience with labeling requirements and seed testing methods.

Responsibilities

• Perform seed quality testing on diverse seed types in accordance with standards and procedures.
• Independently evaluate tests and flag abnormalities, consulting senior analysts as needed.
• Prepare testing materials, monitor equipment, and maintain records in LIMS.
• Manage testing workloads and assist with daily laboratory workflow.
• Provide guidance and training to staff and students on testing methods and procedures.
• Communicate testing options, sample requirements, and results to customers.
• Contribute to the evaluation of new testing methods and improvements to procedures and workflows.
• Support quality assurance activities, including audits, calibration, and corrective actions.

Skills

Seed analysis

Attention to detail

Biology background

Education

Biology or related field coursework

Post high school education/degree in related field

Job description

• Two years experience in seed analysis, which includes one year as a Seed Analyst I or equivalent; or Any combination of post high school education and work experience totaling two years from which one can acquire a working knowledge of seed laws, the “Rules for Testing Seeds” and methods and problems associated with analysis of seeds for labeling purposes.

Position Title

Seed Analyst II

Job Group

Merit

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Two years experience in seed analysis, which includes one year as a Seed Analyst I or equivalent; or Any combination of post high school education and work experience totaling two years from which one can acquire a working knowledge of seed laws, the “Rules for Testing Seeds” and methods and problems associated with analysis of seeds for labeling purposes.

Job Description

The Seed Science Center at Iowa State University is seeking a Seed Analyst II to join our seed testing laboratory team. This position offers the opportunity to work with a wide range of agricultural, vegetable, flower, native, and specialty crop seeds, applying biological knowledge and analytical skills to evaluate seed quality. The successful candidate will perform specialized seed testing, contribute to laboratory quality assurance and method improvements, and help train other laboratory staff and student employees. This is a hands-on technical position with opportunities to develop expertise in the specialized field of seed science.

The Seed Science Center and Seed Lab are internationally recognized for excellence in seed testing, research, training, accuracy, timely results, and customer service.

What You'll Do

• Perform seed quality testing on a wide variety of agricultural, vegetable, flower, tree, native, and specialty crop seeds in accordance with applicable industry standards and laboratory procedures.
• Independently evaluate tests, recognize abnormal test results or inconsistencies, and exercise technical judgment to identify when additional examinations or testing may be necessary, consulting with senior analysts as appropriate.
• Prepare testing materials and conditions, monitor laboratory equipment and environments, and maintain accurate testing records and data in laboratory information systems.
• Manage assigned testing workloads, monitor sample progress and turnaround times, and assist with daily laboratory workflow and priorities.
• Provide technical guidance and training to other laboratory staff and student employees on testing methods, evaluation techniques, and laboratory procedures.
• Communicate routine technical information to customers and Customer Care staff regarding testing options, sample requirements, procedures, and results.
• Participate in the evaluation and implementation of new or revised testing methods and recommend improvements to laboratory procedures, equipment, and workflows.
• Support laboratory quality assurance activities, including procedure documentation, audits, proficiency testing, equipment calibration, and corrective actions.
• Contribute to educational and professional outreach through workshops, short courses, laboratory demonstrations, and participation in relevant professional organizations and industry activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education or experience in biology, botany, agronomy, horticulture, or a related field.
• Experience performing laboratory testing, biological evaluations, or other detailed technical work.
• Experience maintaining accurate records and interpreting technical information.

Why Join Us?

The Seed Science Center brings together faculty, staff, and students from across disciplines including agronomy, plant pathology, horticulture, and engineering, creating a collaborative environment recognized worldwide for leadership in seed science and technology. The Seed Lab has served seed companies, farmers, and researchers across the United States and internationally for more than 100 years.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Why Choose Iowa State University?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [e-mail], or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type

Regular

Number Of Months Employed Per Year

12 Month Work Period

Time Type

Full time

Pay Grade

08

Original Posting Date

November 5, 2026

Posting Close Date

November 15, 2026

Job Requisition Number

R20167

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. [phone], email [e-mail].

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.