Germination Laboratory Technician (Multiple positions)

Posted June 2, 2011
Business Dow AgroSciences, LLC
Kurz Purdue Technology Center,
Purdue Research Park of West Lafayette ,
1281 Win Hentschel Blvd., West Lafayette
Position Type Full Time
Start Date Immediate Availability

Duties / Responsibilities

The Dow AgroSciences (DAS) Seeds, Traits and Oils (ST&O) Quality Control Team is seeking a number of Germination Laboratory Technicians to support the new DAS Seed Quality Laboratory in West Lafayette, Indiana. Under the guidance of the Germination Laboratory Coordinator, the purpose of this job is to enable routine and non-routine seed and seedling analyses for corn, sunflower, soybean, sorghum and cotton. The Germination Lab Technician is responsible for producing analytical data which will be used to evaluate the release of products. The role is also responsible for enabling process and/or product optimization and problem prevention, ensure analytical systems are performing optimally, and evaluate and apply effective technologies.

  • Follow EH&S and Operating Discipline/Quality System procedures and practices. Actively participate in laboratory EH&S trainings, programs and initiatives.
  • Perform routine and non-routine analyses of physical purity, germination and vigor according to established testing methods and protocols. Facilitate improvements to process and methodology where appropriate.
  • Assist in organization and scheduling of analytical activities to ensure service requests are accurately run within the allotted time and testing priorities are met.
  • Communicate with Germination Lab Coordinator and stakeholders regarding identified lab process or seed quality issues.
  • Participate and/or facilitate laboratory training and proficiency testing programs.
  • Develop response plans for and schedule non-routine analytical requests.
  • Using relevant tools, evaluate validity of data, interpret results and take appropriate action including initiation of retesting, re-sampling or root cause investigation.
  • Utilize laboratory data handling systems to document, communicate and archive results.
  • Monitor quality critical testing equipment; perform calibration, verification and maintenance of systems as necessary.
  • Document out-of-tolerance occurrences and corrective actions per the laboratories quality management system.
  • Network with other technical people to share technology and to leverage problem solving and prevention expertise.
  • Train peers in use of analytical systems and EH&S procedures.
  • Contribute to value creation by continuous improvement of procedures in the analytical work processes and related tools and performance metrics.
  • Facilitate supervision of contract labor during day to day operation of the germination lab.

Requirements / Qualifications

  • An associate's degree in a biology, botany or agriculture relatedfield of study or equivalent experience and technical proficiency is preferred
  • Registered Seed Technologist (RST/RGT) or Certified Viability Technologist (CVT/CGT) is preferred
  • High attention to detail.
  • Assumes personal ownership and accountability for projects, goals, and outcomes; independently plans and executes own work to ensure completion of individual objectives.
  • Demonstrates flexibility, self-management, and ability to multi-task while working under critical deadlines.
  • Positive attitude, flexibility, and a professional work ethic.
  • Effective team player.
  • Ability to establish rapport with others.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Seeks to continually improve efficiency and effectiveness in own work processes.
  • Ability to quickly learn and retain process flows and systems that are complex and diverse.
  • Ability to understand and follow written protocols.
  • Strong computer skills and the ability to work efficiently in Microsoft Office Suite products, i.e. PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, and Excel.

Company Description

Dow AgroSciences LLC, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, is a top-tier agricultural company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. Dow AgroSciences provides innovative technologies for crop protection, pest and vegetation management, seeds, traits, and agricultural biotechnology to serve the world's growing population. Global sales for Dow AgroSciences, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Dow Chemical Company, are $4.9 billion.

Application Instructions

Apply on-line at https://dow.taleo.net/careersection/10060/jobdetail.ftl?job=1103176.