Seed Analyst III

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University seeks an experienced Seed Analyst III for the Seed Science Center. The role combines advanced seed testing with coordinating laboratory activities, guiding analysts, and solving complex testing challenges across many crop species.

The incumbent will contribute to method development, quality assurance, and continuous improvement while supporting outreach and training activities in seed science.

Qualifications

• Experience in seed analysis and interpretation of testing rules.
• Knowledge of quality assurance and laboratory workflows.
• Ability to provide technical guidance and oversight.

Responsibilities

• Perform specialized seed quality testing on diverse seed species.
• Interpret testing rules and determine methods and reporting.
• Coordinate daily laboratory workflow and turnaround times.
• Provide training and guidance to staff and students.
• Contribute to method development and quality improvement.

Skills

Seed analysis

Quality control

Laboratory supervision

Education

Biological sciences degree

RST/AOSA certified

Job description

Position Title

Seed Analyst III

Job Group

Merit

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Registered Seed Technologists (RST) and/or AOSA Certified (Purity and Germination) Analyst with a minimum of four years of experience testing a wide range of species; or Degree in Biological Sciences, Botany, Plant Sciences, or a related field from which one has acquired an extensive knowledge in all areas of seed analysis or equivalent post-secondary education.

Job Description

The Seed Science Center at Iowa State University is seeking an experienced Seed Analyst III to join our seed testing laboratory team. This position combines advanced technical seed testing with responsibility for coordinating laboratory activities, providing technical guidance to other analysts, and resolving complex testing challenges. The successful candidate will apply specialized knowledge and independent judgment across a wide range of crop species while contributing to method development, quality assurance, and continuous improvement.

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 specialized seed quality testing and analysis on a wide range of agricultural, vegetable, flower, tree, native, and specialty seed species in accordance with applicable industry rules, regulatory requirements, and laboratory procedures.
• Identify, evaluate, and classify seeds, seedlings, and other botanical materials within assigned areas of expertise, using technical references, laboratory collections, and professional judgment to resolve complex or unusual findings.
• Interpret seed testing rules and regulatory requirements to determine appropriate testing methods, classifications, and reporting procedures, exercising independent judgment when established procedures do not address specific testing needs.
• Evaluate testing results, investigate discrepancies, and determine when additional examination or retesting is necessary to ensure technical accuracy and reliability.
• Coordinate daily laboratory workflow by prioritizing samples, assigning and monitoring work, and maintaining testing schedules and turnaround times.
• Provide technical guidance, training, and direction to laboratory staff and student employees; verify technical competency and support consistent application of testing procedures and quality standards.
• Lead or contribute to the development, evaluation, and implementation of new or revised testing methods, procedures, and laboratory workflows.
• Support laboratory quality assurance and accreditation activities, including audits, proficiency testing, corrective actions, equipment calibration, and maintenance of procedures and quality records.
• Maintain laboratory resources and participate in professional development, technical organizations, and Seed Science Center educational and outreach activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Registered Seed Technologist (RST) or AOSA Certified Seed Analyst in Purity or Germination.
• Significant experience performing specialized seed testing and interpreting applicable testing rules and procedures.
• Experience independently performing complex seed testing, interpreting technical standards, and resolving non-routine testing issues.
• Experience coordinating laboratory activities, training other analysts, or providing technical guidance and oversight.

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

12

Original Posting Date

November 5, 2026

Posting Close Date

November 15, 2026

Job Requisition Number

R20168

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.