Temp Seed Analyst - Entry OSU Seed Lab

3291 SW Campus Way, Corvallis OR

Description

Apply on with the above link by 6/7/21. This recruitment will be used to fill 8 Temporary Seed Analyst – Entry positions for the Department of Crop and Soil Science Seed Lab at Oregon State University (OSU). This is a temporary Seed Analyst-Entry position for a period of up to 90 days with the possibility of extension as well as the possibility of long-term employment. This position starts part-time, then transitions to full-time during peak sample numbers. The position provides assistance to the Purity Unit of the Seed Laboratory during peak sample season. Employees in this position will prepare samples for senior analysts by separating contaminants from pure seed, as well as occasionally using a mechanical micro-thresher to separate inert from pure seed. This position also performs purity separation on seeds in preparation for germination and special testing exams. Position Duties: 70% Using magnification and forceps, visually and manually separate the purity working subsample into four components: pure seed, other crops, inert material and weed seeds. Record the results on work cards and in logbooks. 15% Using mechanical tools and magnification, detach multiple seed units and separate pure seed from inert material. 10% Study provided literature, seed images, and materials that cover pure seed definitions. 5% Other duties as assigned, including cleaning equipment and personal work stations. Additional Required Qualifications: Good hand-eye coordination. Excellent attention to detail—visually and numerically. Effective communication skills and legible penmanship. Ability to sit and/or stand for the majority of the workday. Ability to follow instructions and accept constructive guidance. Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 20 pounds. Ability to work on irregular/flexible schedules depending on work volume/requirements. Ability to perform repetitive motions. Must be punctual and maintain good attendance. Preferred (Special) Qualifications: Previous seed testing experience. Some college course work with a focus in plant-related biological sciences. Experience working with standards and following written standard operating procedures (SOPs). Quality control or quality assurance experience. A demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity. Working Conditions / Work Schedule: Analysts will spend the majority of their time in a sitting position at a purity board, looking at seeds through a lighted magnifying lens, and using forceps to manipulate seeds. Some work will be performed operating equipment to separate seeds and will require some sitting, standing and lifting (<=20lbs). Must be able to perform repetitive motions. The work schedule is Monday through Friday with fluctuating/intermittent hours depending on sample load. Initially, work will be part-time, increasing to full time during peak sample numbers, then will reduce back to part-time as sample numbers decrease. This position occasionally involves working around fumes, odors, dust, noise, and pesticide chemicals.