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Full Time Seed Science Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Full Time Seed Science information

What is full time seed science?

Full Time Seed Science jobs involve working in the field of seed research, production, and technology on a full-time basis. Professionals in this area may work on breeding new plant varieties, improving seed quality, conducting laboratory tests, or managing seed production operations. These roles can be found in agricultural companies, research institutions, seed companies, and government agencies. Individuals in these positions typically have backgrounds in plant science, agronomy, biology, or related fields. The work is essential for ensuring high crop yields, food security, and agricultural innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time seed science professional?

To thrive as a Full Time Seed Science professional, you generally need a background in plant biology, agronomy, or a related field, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, seed testing equipment, and data management systems is typically required, along with certifications such as Registered Seed Technologist (RST) where applicable. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in this field. These competencies ensure accurate seed analysis, compliance with industry standards, and the advancement of agricultural productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in full time seed science roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Full Time Seed Science often encounter challenges such as maintaining high-quality seed standards, adapting to rapidly changing agricultural technologies, and managing unpredictable environmental factors that affect seed performance. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including agronomists, geneticists, and field technicians—is vital for problem-solving and innovation. Staying updated with the latest research, following strict quality control protocols, and participating in ongoing professional development can help address these challenges effectively while advancing your career in seed science.

What is the difference between Full Time Seed Science vs Seed Technologist?

AspectFull Time Seed ScienceSeed Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, or related field; certifications may enhance prospectsSimilar educational background; certifications like ISTA or ISTA-approved seed testing certifications are common
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, seed production facilities, field testing sitesSeed testing labs, quality control facilities, production plants
Industry UsageResearch institutions, seed companies, agricultural organizationsSeed testing labs, seed production companies, quality assurance departments

Full Time Seed Science professionals focus on research, development, and quality assessment of seeds, often working in labs and research settings. Seed Technologists primarily perform seed testing, quality control, and certification tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their daily tasks and work environments differ slightly, with Seed Technologists more involved in testing and quality assurance processes.

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Seed Science jobs in Oregon?

For Full Time Seed Science jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Seed Science jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Seed Science jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Full Time Seed Science jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Full Time Seed Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Full Time Seed Science job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution.

Seed Analyst 2 (Short-Term): OSU Seed Lab

Corvallis, OR • On-site

$18.05 - $26.20/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Department:Department of Crop & Soil Science - Seed LabSpecial Instructions to Applicants:

When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:

1) A resume/CV; and

2) A cover letter indicating how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this position.


3) Transcripts: Transcripts must be submitted for all required and/or related courses. All courses must be from accredited colleges, universities, or private vocational schools.


For additional information please contact:

Lorinda Hughes

lorinda.huges@oregonstate.edu

541-737-4464

Job Summary:

This recruitment will be used to fill one full-time, short-term, Seed Analyst 2 position for the Department of Crop and Soil Science's Seed Lab at Oregon State University (OSU). This position is expected to last approximately 6-months.

Join the OSU Seed Lab as a Seed Purity Analyst 2. As the Official Seed Laboratory for the State of Oregon, the OSU Seed Lab provides testing services that support Oregon's seed industry, seed certification, regulatory programs, and customers throughout the United States and internationally.

In this position, you will independently perform complex purity testing, identify seeds and contaminants, evaluate seed quality, following domestic and international seed testing rules to produce accurate and reliable seed quality results.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Perform complex purity testing on a wide variety of seed species using microscopes, magnification, precision tools, seed blowers, dividers, balances, and other specialized laboratory equipment.

  • Identify and separate seed sample components, including pure seed, other crop seed, weed seed, inert matter, noxious and prohibited weeds, and other contaminants.

  • Determine, document, and review test results in accordance with domestic and international seed testing rules, certification standards, regulatory requirements, laboratory procedures, and customer requests.

  • Train and provide technical guidance to junior analysts, temporary employees, and student workers in seed identification, purity testing techniques, laboratory procedures, and applicable testing standards.

  • Support laboratory quality and customer service by reviewing testing work for accuracy, maintaining clean and contamination-free work areas and equipment, and responding to technical questions regarding testing and reported results.

Qualifications:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Three years of full-time experience performing purity, germination, or special tests on seeds such as Bluegrass or Bentgrass seeds and training providing the knowledge of AOSA and SCST rules for testing seeds; OR Two years of the above full-time experience and 12 quarter hours of college courses in the plant sciences such as botany, crop science, seed technology, agronomy, etc., and training providing knowledge of AOSA or SCST rules for testing seeds; OR a certificate of competency in seed testing from either AOSA or SCST and either 12 quarter hours of college courses in the plant sciences as described above or one year of the above full-time experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Previous OSU Seed Lab Experience.

  • AOSA Certification in purity testing, or certification as a Registered Seed Technologist (RST). Working knowledge of AOSA and ISTA Seed Testing Rules and special requirements for Oregon Certified Seed.

Working Conditions/Schedule:Analysts will spend the majority of their time in a sitting position looking at seeds using magnification and forceps to manipulate seeds. Some work will be performed operating equipment to separate seeds and will require some sitting, standing and lifting (<20lbs). Occasionally, special projects may require some outdoor work.
This position occasionally involves working around fumes, odors, dust, noise, and pesticide chemicals.Salary Range:Min $18.05 - Max $26.20Anticipated Start Date:2026-09-14Anticipated End Date:2027-03-13

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.

OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.
OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. If this position has "critical or security-sensitive" responsibilities and/or driving duties and you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU's Employee and Labor Relations team at employee.relations@oregonstate.edu.