South Dakota State University Looking for Assistant Manager – Seed Certification Full Time

Ready to make a meaningful impact on agriculture in the State of South Dakota? Join South Dakota State University (SDSU) as an Assistant Manager – Seed Certification and ensure the highest quality standards for seeds utilized in various initiatives throughout the State. We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented individual to serve in this important leadership role. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota and is a 12-month, full-time, benefit-eligible position. 

Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science includes over 40 faculty whose expertise spans the fields of Agronomy, Entomology, Genetics, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Precision Agriculture, Soil Science, and Weed Science. The department has robust applied and basic research programs that consistently rank at the top of departments at SDSU. Discovery and dissemination of science-based knowledge are core missions of the department. In academic programs, the department provides nationally competitive training for undergraduate students leading to B.S. degrees in Agronomy, Horticulture, and Precision Agriculture. The Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science department also offers a strong graduate training environment leading to M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Plant Science and Biological Sciences.

South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant mission of access.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Carry out the duties and responsibilities of Certification and related service programs by providing third party inspection and audit services to seed producers and the seed trade involving Agricultural Experiment Station variety releases as well as private varieties in order to maintain genetic and varietal purity of planting stock in an effort to improve the economics of crop production in the state.
• Research, test and implement appropriate models to assist in the revision and development of an efficient, complete record tracking system for all program services compatible with current technologies.

SALARY RANGE:

The base salary for this position is $68,800. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines. 

BENEFITS:

South Dakota State University is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $60 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. We offer a rich academic experience in an environment of inclusions and access. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. South Dakota State University offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural of Biological Sciences in plants or crops or closely related field completed by date of application;
• At least three years of experience in seed certification, seed testing, agronomy or related field.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills;
• Effective interpersonal skills;
• Experience in seed testing and varietal purity testing; and
• Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree;
• Willingness to travel in state and out of state seasonal hours will vary;
• Experience in seed production;
• Experience in training and supervising others;
• Computer database management; and
• Certified crop advisor credentials.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Position is open until filled with full consideration given to applications received by November 30, 2023.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

SDSU accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, resume, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check.

South Dakota State University is a tobacco free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14. 

For questions on the position, contact search committee chair, Joyce Kindvall, 2380 Research Park Way Ste. 136, Brookings, SD; 605-688-4604 or [email protected].