Seed Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description

 This position is based in Santa Maria, California, as part of the relocation of operations from Santa Paula, California. To support a successful transition and ensure comprehensive onboarding, the selected candidate will be required to travel to Santa Paula for training during the first six (6) months of employment. From July 2026 through December 2026, the employee may work two (2) days per week in Santa Paula and three (3) days per week in Santa Maria. All travel-related expenses will be paid by the Company. Training will include both hands-on instruction with equipment and machinery as well as online learning modules to ensure the employee is fully prepared for the role. 

PanAmerican Seed is seeking a process-oriented and technically-skilled candidate to lead seed milling operations for ornamental flower seed production. This position manages the execution of milling activities, ensuring safe, efficient use of equipment while contributing to broader seed conditioning outcomes including high quality, throughput, and timeliness. Applying a combination of skill and science is critical to success in this position.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and optimize seed cleaning processes using specialized equipment including gravity decks, cylinder separators, indent separators, pre-cleaners, air columns, brush machines, magnetic belts, and related systems. 
• Evaluate seed lots to determine appropriate cleaning methods, machine settings, and processing sequence to achieve required purity and quality standards.
• Supervise one full-time employee and coordinate temporary labor during peak production periods; assign daily tasks and monitor performance.
• Train employees on seed handling, equipment operation, and safety 
• Ensure adherence to operational procedures, safety requirements, and quality standards 
• Maintain and support equipment readiness through preventive maintenance and repair coordination 
• Execute work orders and production schedules to meet timelines and output requirements 
• Monitor workflow and adjust processes to improve efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Maintain accurate records for seed lot processing and traceability 
• Collaborate with production and quality teams to ensure readiness of cleaned seed for downstream processes (testing, treatment, packaging). 

Requirements

• Bachelors Degree or 5 years of experience in a supervisory role specialized in seed cleaning
• Ability to communicate (written and verbal) in English and Spanish in a production environment.
• Working knowledge of seed cleaning equipment such as gravity tables and air systems.
• Supervisory experience managing employees and seasonal labor.
• Ensure accountability by holding self and team responsible for safety, quality, and productivity.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to optimize work processes by continually evaluating workflows and labor.
• Be action-oriented by responding to operational challenges in a fast-paced environment to ensure production continuity.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and SAP.
• Valid Driver's License and forklift operator certified.

Physical Requirements

Lift/Carry up to 50 lbs - 50% of day

Push/Pull up to 50 lbs - 10% of day

Standing/Walking - 50% of day

Kneeling/Bending - 10% of day

Hands/Fingers - 100% of day

Our Promise to you

We create excitement in the world of flowers and are the first choice for service. We deliver all the best and nothing else! To you, we deliver a work environment and a culture where building long-lasting relationships internally and externally is important. We believe that good communication, sharing ideas and collaborating on projects will set us up for success. We keep both our feet on the ground and are approachable. 

In addition to this we provide a comprehensive Total Rewards package that includes: 

• Medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance
• 401k/Profit Sharing Retirement Plan
• Paid time off benefits including vacation and holidays
• Tuition assistance
• Employee Assistance Program and Positive Health programs