Seed Production Associate

About the role

Advanta, part of UPL Group, is a global seed business focused on addressing food insecurity and climate change by delivering high-quality seeds, agronomic practices, and crop protection solutions. Operating in over 80 countries under brands such as Advanta, Alta, and Pacific Seeds, the company holds a leadership position in tropical and sub-tropical regions for crops including corn, grain and forage sorghum, sunflower, canola, rice, and vegetables. With more than 60 years of experience in plant genetics, Advanta provides seed technology that enhances crop performance and farmer prosperity.

The Foundation Seed Associate supports all aspects of pre-commercial sorghum seed production, processing, inventory management, and distribution in the United States. This role is critical to maintaining the quality, identity, and availability of foundation and parent seed used for hybrid seed production and commercial testing. The ideal candidate is a hands-on professional who enjoys working both in the field and in a seed processing facility, with a strong commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Seed Processing & Inventory:
  • Oversee processing, treatment, packaging, labeling, and storage of all U.S. pre-commercial sorghum seed.
  • Operate and maintain seed conditioning and processing equipment.
  • Apply seed treatments accurately while following stewardship and safety requirements.
  • Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure complete traceability of all seed lots.
  • Package and prepare foundation and parent seed for hybrid seed production.
  • Prepare and ship hybrid trial seed for Commercial and Technical Development teams for testing, demonstrations, and sales support.
  • Conduct quality sampling and assist with seed quality evaluations.
  • Maintain warehouse organization, cleanliness, and seed hygiene standards to prevent contamination.
• Field Operations:
  • Assist with all phases of foundation seed production, including planting, nursery management, pollination, data collection, harvest, threshing, seed cleaning, packaging, and inventory management.
  • Collect accurate agronomic observations and production notes during research and foundation seed nurseries.
  • Assist with rogueing, isolation maintenance, weed control, and field inspections.
  • Operate tractors, sprayers, and other agricultural equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Spray production fields and isolation areas when necessary.
  • Assist other seed production teams as seasonal priorities require.
• Leadership & Collaboration:
  • Lead seasonal crews and coordinate daily work assignments.
  • Communicate effectively with both English- and Spanish-speaking employees; conversational Spanish is highly preferred.
  • Collaborate closely with Foundation Seed, Parent Seed, Hybrid Seed Production, Technical Development, Commercial, and Operations teams.
  • Represent the Foundation Seed program professionally while building positive working relationships across departments.
• Data Management & Technology:
  • Maintain accurate digital records for inventory, production, shipments, and field activities.
  • Enter production data into company databases with a high level of accuracy.
  • Support the implementation and adoption of new technologies, software platforms, automation, drones, and digital agriculture tools.
  • Continuously seek opportunities to improve operational efficiency through technology and process improvements.
• Safety & Quality:
  • Follow all company safety policies and actively contribute to a strong safety culture.
  • Maintain high standards of seed identity preservation and quality assurance.
  • Ensure compliance with all seed handling, treatment, environmental, and stewardship requirements.
  • Maintain an organized, clean, and professional warehouse and work environment at all times.

Qualifications

• Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field; or equivalent agricultural experience.
  • Experience operating agricultural equipment or seed processing equipment.
  • Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
  • Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and data entry systems.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work in both indoor and outdoor environments.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in varying weather conditions.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrated leadership ability and willingness to work across multiple teams.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Preferred:
  • Previous experience in the seed industry.
  • Experience with seed conditioning, seed treatment application, and warehouse operations.
  • Conversational Spanish.
  • Commercial Applicator License or willingness to obtain one.
  • Experience operating tractors, sprayers, forklifts, and other agricultural equipment.
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone License), or willingness to obtain certification.
  • Experience with inventory management systems and digital agriculture technologies.

Seasonal Focus

• Winter: Seed processing, inventory management, packaging and labeling, warehouse organization, quality sampling, shipment preparation, equipment maintenance.
• Spring, Summer & Fall: Foundation nursery operations, planting and pollination, agronomic observations and data collection, harvest, threshing, and seed cleaning.

Working Conditions

This position involves a combination of warehouse, processing plant, and outdoor agricultural work. Seasonal overtime may be required during planting, pollination, harvest, and seed processing periods. The successful candidate should be comfortable working independently while also contributing effectively within cross-functional teams.