Seed Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lead QC Analyst
Croda is a FTSE 100 organization where we truly believe our people are our difference and this, along with our values of Innovative, Responsible and Together, creates 'our Purpose, Smart science to improve lives™'. With over 5,000 employees globally, we specialize in the research and development of innovative ingredients for the Life Science and Consumer Care markets.
We are focused on developing our inclusive culture through accountability, collaboration and innovation. By joining Croda, you will be part of a team who are using smart science to create a more sustainable future.
As we deliver our ambitious 2030 Growth Strategy, we're looking for a Lead QC Analyst, responsible for directing and managing all lab operations with overall responsibility for seed analysis (purity and germination) in accordance with Incotec and A.O.S.A standards.
Who We're Looking For:
• Registered Seed Technologist/Certified Seed Analyst.
• Advanced education or experience in an appropriate field of study.
• Knowledge of seed quality, seed testing, and seed conditioning.
• Knowledge of seed testing methods, chemicals, products, and equipment.
• Knowledge of Quality Management System.
• Excellent communication and written skills.
• Proven supervisory experience.
• Ability to apply conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift and carry samples, supplies and equipment, as necessary.
• Flexibility to work under seasonal time constraints.
What You'll Be Doing:
• Maintaining quality standards in the department.
• Adherent to all safety rules and programs.
• Performs advanced tests for purity and germination potential on prepared seed samples to determine seed viability.
• Conduct seed testing in accordance with AOSA, ISTA, CFIA, customer specifications, plans, work instructions, and any other regulatory protocol governing testing.
• Determines seed sample germination potential using proper substrate, temperature, moisture, and the subsequent evaluation of seedlings.
• Conduct and record results of physical purity on all species. Must be familiar with AOSA Rules, ISTA, Canada M & P, Federal Seed Act and other State Laws regarding noxious weeds.
• Determines seed sample purity based on pure seed, other crops, inert matter, weed seed, noxious weed seed and prohibited weed seed content.
• Oversee testing team personnel in the performance of daily testing activities, including preparation of testing resources that maximize efficiency, assist in testing activities, evaluation of data, interpretations of testing rules, and consultation of testing results.
• Hire, train, develop and coach employees in germination testing activities.
• Supervise and train Lab Technician(s) in proper A.O.S.A. procedures and techniques for preparing and testing seed samples.
• Manage and maintain seed sample retention.
• Interpret and document test results. Oversees entry of test data results.
• Operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Assist with receipt and login of samples, initiating tests by preparing planting media, imbibing, or planting seeds.
• Work with seeds writing and establishing specifications, assisting in the validation of QC tests, and the writing of Standard Operating Procedures.
• Back-up Quality Management in administrative duties as needed.
What We Offer:
The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary and benefits package including:
• Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, available immediately.
• Generous PTO
• 401K Match
• Wellness Reimbursement
• Parental Leave
• Career Development
• Company paid and voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
• Short- and long-term disability
• Paid Holidays
Additional Information:
Hourly Base Pay Range: $23.00 to $29.00
This is an on-site position based at our Incotec site in Salinas, CA.
This range reflects the base pay the company expects to pay for this position. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, experience, education, and skill level. Additional compensation, such as annual bonuses or other incentives, may be offered based on eligibility and company policies.
If you require any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process or experience any issues with our online application process, please email candidate@croda.com.
Why Croda?
At Croda, we believe our people are our difference. We are people-led, driven by the desire to do good and deliver value, a unifying principle shaped by all the great people that have travelled through Croda since our beginning in 1925. We pride ourselves on bringing together diverse teams and talents from across the globe and, guided by our values of Responsible, Innovative, and Together, we are passionate about building an inclusive, collaborative, and diverse organisation with innovation and customer focus underpinning all that we do.
Croda recognizes employees as our strength and the diversity they bring to our workforce are directly linked to our ongoing success. We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate based on any protected attribute, including age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. In accordance with applicable law, we make reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as any mental health or physical disability needs.