Seed Quality Analyst & Microscopist

West Virginia Department of Agriculture; Charleston (WV); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

West Virginia Department of Agriculture in Charleston, WV, seeks a Seed Analyst / Microscopist to analyze seed germination and purity, identify adulterants, and prepare official reports. The role includes maintaining QA measures, calibrating equipment, writing SOPs, and collaborating with USDA on seed health issues.

Responsibilities cover routine lab analyses, data management, and testimony as needed, with focus on accuracy and compliance with seed testing standards.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited 4-year college or university with a major in plant or animal science, biology, or related physical science.
• One year of employment in carrying out technical work in the laboratory preferred.
• Graduate study in related laboratory science may be substituted for the required experience on a year for year basis.
• Valid driver’s license is required.
• Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug testing and background investigation.

Responsibilities

• Analyzes samples for seed germination and purity to determine seed quality.
• Examines samples microscopically to identify adulterants, contaminants, and ingredients.
• Develops and maintains a computer database with all sample information and test results.
• Prepares official reports and may testify before the court or Commissioner.
• Develops quality assurance measures to ensure analytical methods are under control.
• Writes SOPs and test methods and calibrates laboratory equipment.

Skills

Seed technology

Microscopy

Biology

Analytical chemistry

Data entry

Report writing

Education

Bachelor's degree in plant or animal science, biology, or related physical science

Tools

Relational databases

Laboratory instruments

Stereo microscopes

Compound microscopes

Job description

West Virginia Department of Agriculture in Charleston, WV, seeks a Seed Analyst / Microscopist to analyze seed germination and purity, identify adulterants, and prepare official reports. The role includes maintaining QA measures, calibrating equipment, writing SOPs, and collaborating with USDA on seed health issues.

Responsibilities cover routine lab analyses, data management, and testimony as needed, with focus on accuracy and compliance with seed testing standards.