SGS is hiring a Crop Science Technologist I in Brookings, SD to perform moderate to complex technological functions within laboratory operations, including method validation, applied standard and experimental testing, and equipment calibration, working under the direction of the Technical team.
About the Company – SGS
Market Position: The global leader and innovator in inspection, verification, testing, and certification services
Heritage: Founded in 1878, recognized as the global benchmark in quality and integrity
Global Scale: Over 97,000 employees in 130 countries, operating more than 2,400 offices and laboratories
Industry Reach: Provides services to almost every industry, assuring quality and safety of products
Department: Environmental laboratory services, with a focus on crop science and seed testing
Career Growth in Agricultural Laboratory Science
Strategic Location: Brookings, SD – a key agricultural science and seed testing hub
Technical Ownership: Approve data independently and apply standard procedures with initiative
Skill Development: Build advanced expertise in LIMS, QMS, and analytical instrumentation
Career Growth: Strong path into senior laboratory technologist and quality assurance roles at SGS
Position Overview
The Crop Science Technologist I uses an applied approach in performing moderate to complex technological functions within laboratory operations, including method validation, conducting applied standard and experimental testing under the direction of the Technical team, and interpreting and evaluating results. This role works from detailed specifications and verbal instructions, demonstrating advanced knowledge of LIMS and QMS, and may investigate corrective actions while approving data independently.
Why This Role Matters: As Crop Science Technologist I at SGS, you contribute to globally trusted seed purity and germination testing that supports agricultural quality worldwide, gain hands-on experience with LIMS, QMS, and advanced laboratory instrumentation, take on independent data approval and judgment within standard procedures, and build a specialized laboratory science career with a 145-year-old global testing and certification leader.
Key Responsibilities
Laboratory Testing & Method Validation
- Use an applied approach in performing moderate/complex technological functions including method validation
- Conduct applied standard and experimental testing under the direction of the Technical team
- Work from detailed specifications and verbal instructions, interpreting and evaluating results
Equipment Calibration & Maintenance
- Perform calibration and set up of equipment prior to analysis
- Maintain and record equipment calibrations, carrying out routine and non-routine equipment maintenance
- May troubleshoot and repair equipment or components under the guidance of senior team members
Systems Knowledge & Quality Compliance
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System)
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of QMS and may be required to investigate corrective actions
- Follow all Quality system protocols and report any discrepancies to the Supervisor
Independent Judgment & Team Support
- Approve data without the direction of a supervisor, applying initiative and independent judgment in standard procedures
- Provide guidance and training to more junior laboratory personnel
- May be assigned and coordinate special or ad hoc projects as needed
Qualifications & Requirements
Educational Requirements
- Associate’s degree in an Agricultural or science-related program (Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Plant Science, or related field) – Required
- Bachelor’s degree – Preferred
Experience Requirements
- 0-3 years of experience in agricultural work, physical purity, or germination testing – Required
- Experience in a laboratory setting – Preferred
Essential Skills
- Strong technical knowledge of instrumentation and analytical techniques
- Ability to maintain a clean working environment and follow company health, safety, and environmental policies
- Willingness to work in other areas of the Environmental laboratory services department when needed
About SGS
SGS is the global leader and innovator in inspection, verification, testing, and certification services. Founded in 1878, SGS is recognized as the global benchmark in quality and integrity, with over 97,000 employees in 130 countries operating a network of more than 2,400 offices and laboratories, providing services to almost every industry by assuring quality and safety of products and services. SGS puts 100% passion, pride, and innovation into everything it does, encouraging new ideas and helping employees reach their full potential.
Career Excellence: Build a specialized agricultural laboratory science career with the world’s leading testing, inspection, and certification company.
Who Should Apply?
- Plant Science & Biology Graduates: With an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree seeking hands-on lab work
- Agricultural Testing Technicians: With 0-3 years of purity or germination testing experience
- Chemistry & Biochemistry Graduates: Interested in applied laboratory testing and method validation
- Laboratory Technicians: Looking to build LIMS and QMS expertise with a global certification leader
- Entry-Level Science Graduates: Seeking a technical career path in agricultural laboratory science
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