GA Seed Network Field Technician, State Botanical Garden Based at Dry Branch, GA

Position Summary

The Seeds of Success (SOS) program is a national native seed conservation initiative led by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in partnership with organizations across the United States. The program focuses on the collection, processing, testing, and long-term conservation of genetically diverse native plant seeds for restoration, research, and conservation.

This position is located at the Forest Service National Seed Laboratory in Dry Branch, GA. The incumbent provides technical assistance to professional and technical personnel by performing a variety of recurring and moderately complex laboratory tests, processing and cleaning seed collections, and conducting a variety of tasks in support of the national seed lab’s quality management system.

Funding is secured for three years. The position’s term may be extended should additional revenue lines be secured.

Duties/Responsibilities

Laboratory Work (80%)

• Conduct routine laboratory tests (moisture content, purity, seed count, full seed, germination) to determine seed quality.
• Maintain and operate specialized laboratory equipment.
• Record test data and prepare reports following established guidelines.
• Assist in developing and documenting experimental testing methods.
• Follow seed processing protocols.
• Use tools and equipment to clean and upgrade seed collections.
• Document steps to develop new seed processing protocols.
• Collaborate with staff to clean, maintain, package, and ship germplasm conservation seed collections for long-term storage.
• Manage and record actions as necessary to meet quality management system requirements.
• Any other tasks related to the project requested by the supervisor.

Field Work (10%)

• Collect seeds from native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants.

Outreach and Education (5%)

• Assist SBG/NSL staff in conducting tours, training, field days and other technology transfer activities appropriate to the position.
• Present work at professional conferences and public forums.

Training and Development (5%)

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