Seed Production Technician

Position Overview

Seed production technicians oversee the strategy and planning for seed production. They help growers with equipment operations relating to seed. In addition, they assist with scouting and planting. Seed production technicians also complete several warehouse activities, including packaging, conditioning, and sorting different seed varieties. They sometimes help with other areas of crop production as well, depending on the employer. This could be in areas related to quality control or harvesting. Seed production technicians may need to perform general maintenance tasks to keep seed-related machinery running effectively. Overall, someone in this position should be very focused on quality levels so that the company can provide their customers with the best products possible. This may involve looking for better processes to implement to save costs and present better value to customers. Seed production technicians should expect to spend their time split between the field and the warehouse, working in a variety of different weather conditions.

Seed Production Technician Duties

• Assist with crop production activities, such as planting and harvest
• Organise general seed warehouse operations
• Clean and treat seed
• Perform quality control activities
• Package or bag seed
• Tag or label seed
• Store seed and track inventory
• Prepare seed for the shippment to customers
• Maintain seed-related equipment
• Train other employees on seed production techniques and strategies
• Constantly look for ways to improve processes and procedures to be more efficient and cost-effective
• Encourage good morale across entire seed production team

Typical Employers

• Seed production companies
• Biotechnology organizations
• Cooperatives
• Government
• Universities

Required Education and Training

Seed production technicians should have a bachelor's degree in either biology, agronomy, or plant science. Other certifications may be needed, depending on the location and employer requirements. For example, some employers require their seed production technicians to be certified as a crop advisor. It is also advantageous to have mechanical knowledge to fix and troubleshoot issues with equipment.

Key Skills and Qualities

• Computer proficiency
• Valid driver's license
• Good communication skills
• Organised
• Ability to work in a team environment as well as independently
• Deadline-oriented
• Ability to work outside in various conditions / seasons
• Ability to work overtime during busy seasons
• Willingness to perform activities involving physical labour