Supervises and performs inspection of growing crops and stored seed for seed certification.

The duties involve selling the seed certification program to farmers and seed dealers through methods designed to show the advantages derived from the use of good seed. The objective of the work is to increase the farm income through better yields and to maintain safeguards against the spread of seed-borne diseases and noxious weeds. Assistance is given to the faculty supervisor in training Seed Certification Inspectors A by visits to the scene of their activities and working with them in the fields. Assistance is also given in reviewing controversial matters with growers when such situations arise. Supervision is received from the faculty supervisor who outlines general work assignments.

Examples of duties characteristic of positions in this class:

1. Explains the advantages of seed certification to seed producers and seedsmen by on-the-ground visits and meetings. Maintains contacts with growers throughout the State.
2. Supervises and trains employees in inspection technique by instruction in the field and spot-checks their work; reviews inspectors’ reports for thoroughness and accuracy.
3. Studies the rules and standards of certification. Checks fine practicability of their application and recommends to the State Certified Seed Commission through the faculty supervisor such changes as would be beneficial to the program.
4. Performs all duties of Seed Certification Inspector A.
5. Revises seed publications such as Seed Directory, Seed Corn pamphlet and similar booklets by assembling data and preparing layouts; prepares periodic newsletter by writing copy on Commission activities for distribution to certified seed growers; assists with preparation of annual report and special statistical reports for other State agencies.

 

6. Makes speeches at meetings of an agricultural nature; collects data of interest to seed Arguers; studies market conditions and collects data on certification programs in other states; prepares tape recordings for radio broadcasts.
7. Assists faculty supervisor in assignment of inspectors to crop inspections based upon receipt of applications; ascertains that inspections are conducted within prescribed time limits for proper certification.
8. Coordinates the work of the seed certification program with that of the foundation seed production program to determine acreage of foundation seed necessary to supply certified seed needs, and handles orders for foundation seed.
9. Supervises and handles the purchasing of materials and equipment required in the seed certification program.
10. In cooperation with plant breeders, supervises mass head selections and other necessary selections and the reproduction of these selections for the purpose of purifying varieties.

Completion of standard college course in agriculture and three years of related experience in agricultural extension or crop research work, at least two years of which must have been in seed certification.

Knowledge of the principles of plant breeding and knowledge of pathology, entomology, and agronomy; ability to interpret and apply standards in controversial cases, ability to make public contacts and to supervise and train other employees.

Last updated: 7/1/59