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GA Seed Network Field technician, State Botanical Garden Based at Americus, GA

The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States


Overview
Posting Number S14749P. Working Title: GA Seed Network Field Technician, State Botanical Garden. Based at Americus, GA. Department: PSO-State Botanic Garden of GA. Posting Type: External. Employment Type: Employee. Work Schedule: 40 hours a week, 8am–5pm Monday through Friday with some flexibility for field work and seed viability. Location: Outside Athens. EEO policy and accessibility information apply. This is a grant-funded position with secured funding for two years, with continuation anticipated but not guaranteed.

Position Information
Classification Title: Agricultural Technician II. FLSA: Non-Exempt. FTE: 1.00.

Responsibilities
Field Work

Prepare, establish, and maintain seed and plant production fields of various native plants.

Exercise close control needed to meet crop improvement standards for production of seed and plants for conservation and native plantings.

Apply fertilizers, chemicals, and pesticides, maintaining labels, proper storage, and reporting as required by regulatory agencies.

Calibrate equipment to ensure application within label guidelines.

Operate, maintain, and repair farm agricultural equipment; adapt machinery for production, harvesting, and cleaning operations.

Assist with wild collections of seeds from native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants.

Assist with facility and landscape maintenance and repairs; help maintain facility conditions and security.

Notify the Farm Foreman or PMC manager of significant deficiencies.

Laboratory Work

Conduct routine laboratory tests (moisture, purity, seed count, germination) to determine seed quality.

Maintain and operate specialized laboratory equipment; record test data and prepare reports.

Follow seed processing protocols; clean and process seed to required standards and document steps for new protocols.

Collaborate with staff to clean, maintain, package, and ship germplasm conservation seed collections for long-term storage.

Manage and record actions to meet quality management system requirements.

Training And Development

Complete required training by UGA and PMC to maintain access to job-critical systems.

Complete required certifications for equipment use (e.g., UTV, forklift).

Complete required training and/or continue education credits to maintain Georgia Pesticide Applicator’s license.

Education And Outreach

Assist SBG/PMC staff in tours, trainings, field days, and other technology transfer activities.

Assist with establishment, maintenance, and evaluation of off-center plantings for demonstration or outreach purposes.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of related experience.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies

Practical knowledge of native plant ecology, crop production, and basic plant science principles.

Experience establishing and maintaining research plots and seed production fields.

Knowledge of seed collection, cleaning, processing, and storage for native plant species.

Ability to recognize plant growth stages, seed maturity, and pest, weed, and disease issues.

Skill in operating and maintaining agricultural and seed processing equipment (tractors, harvesters, seed cleaners, irrigation systems).

Knowledge of fertilizer, herbicide, and pesticide application practices, including calibration, label compliance, and safe handling.

Ability to collect accurate field and production data and maintain detailed technical records.

Familiarity with greenhouse, shade house, and facility operations preferred.

Ability to work independently on routine tasks while coordinating with partner staff.

Strong attention to detail, safety awareness, and willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions.

Physical Demands

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Regular outdoor work in heat, cold, humidity, and uneven terrain.

Exposure to farm machinery, seed processing equipment, and agricultural chemicals with appropriate PPE.

Repetitive tasks, prolonged standing, bending, walking, and operating equipment.

Additional Information

Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes

Is this a Position of Trust? Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No

Does this position require a P-Card? No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under 18 or patient care? No

Security Access? Yes

Be advised a credit check will be required for positions with financial responsibilities. For the credit background check criteria, see the

UGA Credit Background Check website .

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation, including a criminal background check, verification of credentials and employment history, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. A pre-employment drug test may be required for high-risk positions. See the

UGA Background Check website .

Duties/Responsibilities
Field Work

Prepare, establish, and maintain seed and plant production fields of native plants.

Meet crop improvement standards for production of seed and plants for conservation and native plantings.

Apply fertilizers, chemicals, and pesticides with proper labeling, storage, and reporting.

Calibrate equipment to ensure proper applications.

Operate and maintain farm equipment; adapt machinery for production and cleaning operations.

Assist with wild seed collections and facility/landscape maintenance.

Maintain security and safety of the PMC and report deficiencies.

Laboratory Work

Conduct routine laboratory tests for seed quality.

Maintain laboratory equipment and record test data.

Process seeds according to protocols and document steps for new protocols.

Clean, package, and ship germplasm seed collections for long-term storage.

Education and Outreach

Assist with tours, trainings, field days, and outreach activities.

Application Materials
Required documents: Resume/CV; Cover Letter. Optional documents may be requested.

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