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Full Time Seed Science Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

$103K - $135K/yr

Design and develop fiber laser systems and critical components, including seed lasers, amplifiers ... MS degree required in an engineering discipline, Physics, or Material Science. PhD degree preferred.

All JobsSeed Science JobsFull Time Seed Science JobsFull Time Seed Science Jobs in Portland, OR

Full Time Seed Science information

See Portland, OR salary details

$26K

$51.3K

$83.8K

How much do full time seed science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time seed science in Portland, OR is $51,319.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,800.00 and $55,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Full Time Seed Science jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Seed Science jobs in Portland, OR are:

Full Time Seed Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Seed Science job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,319 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

nLIGHT
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about nLIGHTexternal

$103K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
At nLIGHT, we are constantly on the cutting-edge of laser technology in a massively growing market. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be made.
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
Summary
The Directed Energy Laser Development group has an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of high-power fiber amplifiers. This position will develop next-generation fiber laser products in a fast-growing, vertically integrated company. Take products from concept phase through prototypes to product release as a core member of an interdisciplinary team.
Functions:
  • Contribute to a cross-functional team pursuing the development of novel fiber laser designs.
  • Manage critical development and program tasks and take ownership of key technical areas.
  • Apply theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers, fiber optics and opto-mechanical design to the development of high-power fiber amplifiers for military/defense applications
  • Design and develop fiber laser systems and critical components, including seed lasers, amplifiers, and opto-mechanical sub-systems.
  • Test and characterization of complex, laser-based, opto-mechanical systems.
Qualifications:
  • MS degree required in an engineering discipline, Physics, or Material Science. PhD degree preferred.
  • Hands on experience with the development of fiber and/or solid-state lasers and amplifiers, optics, and/or opto-mechanical systems.
  • Solid analytical and problem-solving skills, including problem identification, data analysis, action planning, and execution.
  • Strong theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers and their associated optics.
  • Fiber laser system design and modeling, including practical considerations such as manufacturability, is desired.
  • Experience designing complex opto-mechanical systems for military or defense applications is a plus.
  • Ability to summarize and present results and conclusions clearly and effectively.
  • Ability to work as both a leader and contributor.
nLIGHT is proud to offer comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Starting pay and level depend on qualifications:
  • Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $115,000
  • Senior Optical Engineer: $103,000 - $135,000
Other Compensation and Benefits
  • Target Cash Bonus of 5-6% of earned wages, depending on level
  • Eligible for Restricted Stock Unit grants
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 10 paid Holidays
  • Eligible for health benefits on the 1st day of the month after your start date
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, including prescription and orthodontia with employee-paid premiums as low as $40.00 per pay period
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
  • Company paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Aflac Supplemental Insurance
  • Paid Bereavement Leave and Jury Duty
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Pet Insurance
nLIGHT is subject to US Export Control regulations. To qualify for this position, you must be a US Person (that is, a US citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual granted asylum or refugee status).
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster:Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at (360) 566-4460 orHR@nlight.net.
E-Verify Participation:
nLIGHT participates in the E-Verify program. This employer will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
For more information, please review the following notices:
  • E-Verify Participation Poster
  • Right to Work Poster
Employment Type: Full-Time Regular

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