SEED ANALYST SENIOR 81343

2/1/90 B

This is the third class in the Seed Analyst series. Positions in this class perform tests and analyses on seeds in accordance with official rules (set guidelines) and prescribed laboratory procedures. This class analyzes seed samples for viability and vigor, trueness-to-variety and purity. They perform seed germination tests and may plan, conduct and evaluate field planting of seed samples and perform miscellaneous laboratory tests to determine the quality of commercial and privately owned seed lots for marketing and planting in Virginia. The Seed Analyst Senior is distinguished from the Seed Analyst Assistant Supervisor by the Assistant Supervisor's program administration responsibility, and from the Seed Analyst by their responsibility for training personnel and organizing and coordinating Seed Analyst work.

Complexity of Work: Performs detailed work of moderate difficulty in analyzing and identifying a wide variety of seed. Analyzes seed under a microscope for purity, conducts germination tests, performs seed viability and vigor tests, performs bio-assay tests for presence and proper application of fungicide, and interprets and evaluates results. They also organize and coordinate the work of the Seed Analysts within the laboratory setting; train other analysts; resolve any testing problems; prepare and forward seed samples to the Federal Seed Laboratory and maintain sample records; and accept committee assignments in the Association of Official Seed Analysts. Positions in this class may perform Seed Analyst duties if needed; have overall responsibility for the laboratory in the absence of the supervisor and assistant supervisor; and assist in devising methods and techniques to improve the speed and/or accuracy of testing procedures in all phases of seed testing.

Supervision Given: Positions in this class provide guidance and direction to lower level personnel.

Supervision Received: Works independently but receives general supervision from the Seed Analyst Assistant Supervisor or higher level supervisory personnel.

Scope: Performs work connected with agricultural production, distribution, and consumption. Work affects the producers, consumers, and community involved in the agricultural and business economy.

Impact of Actions: Performs work that may halt production, distribution or sale of agricultural or other products/services performed; and may negatively affect the economy or bring about a correction in current business practices.

Personal Contacts: Positions in this class have occasional internal contact with department personnel to report tests results and have occasional outside contact with the general public for the purposes of identifying plant specimens and reporting test results to farmers, seed dealers and private industry and federal government personnel.

Knowledge: Considerable knowledge of various types of seeds and of testing procedures used to evaluate planting quality.

Skills: Skill in operating a microscope.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to analyze visually and identify a wide variety of seed; to follow oral and written instructions; to perform laboratory tests accurately and efficiently on various kinds of seed; and to direct and work effectively with others.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from high school with additional course work in biology, agronomy, horticulture, or a related field.

Level and Type of Experience: Considerable seed testing experience required.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was established as part of the Classification Review/Specification Update Program and replaces the Seed Analyst C class, effective February, 1990.