Advanta US is an operating unit of Advanta, a global seed business that combines the most advanced techniques in conventional plant breeding with biotechnology to deliver world-class seed. Advanta is one of the international leaders in the research, development, production, processing, marketing and sale of high-performance agricultural seeds.

Summary

Assist with Quality Assurance Manager to ensure consistent seed quality throughout the supply chain. Utilize internal and external collaborations to maintain and validate seed quality. Assures proper test methods are followed and results are accurate. Assist with quality assurance and control testing to assure consistent and accurate results.

Major Job Responsibilities

Quality:

• Assure prevention of cross-contamination of hybrids.
• Inspect all packaging for conformance and verify the accuracy and quality of shipments.
• Execute seed testing activities according to standard procedures.
• Reports results both internally and externally in formal reports, presentations, etc.
• Ensure proper operation and maintenance of testing equipment, tools, etc.
• Ensure fumigation and pest control of seeds in storage as required.
• Sample returns and carryover, according to AOSA standards, and perform new germination tests 
• Works closely with Operations Supervisors to monitor and trend daily control test activities, retest rates and assures test consistency and reduced variances.
• Troubleshoot QA testing from an applied plant pathology perspective.
• Manages data related to internal and external global proficiency and validation tests. 
• Recognizes, proposes, and leads projects to improve test methods, efficiency and reduce costs. 
• Work closely with Global QA team and assist in initiating and managing internal and external research collaborations to create and validate new technologies.

Bulk Seed Management:

• Assist with bulk seed receiving at harvest, take samples, and examine for physical purity.
• Maintain the quality and ensure separation of hybrids and lots as required.
• Monitor temperature and moisture to maintain best quality bulk storage.
• Germ bulk seed every 3 months, and report variances to Plant Manager

Safety, Health and Environment:

• Follow all safety, health and environmental requirements for the production facility.
• Supervise disposal of bi-products, scrap and other materials according to proper procedures.
• Ensure that all work related activities are carried out in a manner consistent with Advanta’s values, culture and procedures.

Skills & Requirements:

• Ability to read, analyze and comprehend, technical procedures and seed testing procedures. 
• Decision-making, troubleshooting and problem solving skills. The ability to take action in solving problems while exhibiting judgment and a realistic understanding of relevant issues.
• Excellent communications skills including the capability to clearly present information through oral or written communications.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced global and multi-cultural environment.
• Experience with Laboratory Automation is highly desirable.
• SAP experience preferred.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in plant sciences, agriculture or related field, or equivalent experience required.
• Master’s Degree in plant sciences, agriculture or related field preferred
• Minimum two years applied industry experience required.
• Registered Seed Technologist Certification or ability to achieve within a reasonable timeframe.

Applications

Please send application and CV to Michael Nesti, michael.nesti@uniphos.com