Seed Field Inspector

Overview WSDA Seed Program provides accurate, timely and high‑quality seed analysis and certification services while continually striving for improvements in methods and technologies to assure success for the program and its seed industry stakeholders. The program is responsible for seed certification, seed testing, phytosanitary visual seed inspection, seed inspection and official seed sampling. Additionally, the program monitors two seed quarantines. Location: Eastern Washington. Onboarding in Yakima. Work spread across Eastern Washington. Important Notes Full‑time non‑permanent Agricultural Commodity Inspector 2. Salary: $19.64 - $25.45 hourly, based on experience. Duration Positions split into two groups: four expected May–September, six expected June–August. Field Inspections Conduct certified field inspections to inspect crops for off‑type and variants. Read, interpret, and follow inspection instructions and methodology outlined in policy, procedure, directives, notices, rules, and regulations. Provide accurate, timely, and unbiased inspections for field certification and maintain records and field notes. Attend training classes and learn field techniques and PPE requirements. Work closely with other inspectors and program staff to deliver contracted inspections. Phytosanitary Inspections Perform experienced phytosanitary field inspections for diseased and/or pests as directed. Read, interpret, comprehend and follow inspection instructions and methodology. Inspect various seed crop fields for diseases and pests. Identify crop contamination, disease presence according to federal and state certifications. Sample Collection Collect soil and/or plant material for phytosanitary inspection in a timely manner and during correct biological stage. Collect samples using proper protocol, sampling intensity, and sanitary techniques. Bag and store products for analysis to maintain biological integrity. Deliver samples to the Seed Program and coordinate pick‑up from other inspectors. Assist with transporting processed samples to local laboratories. Ensure samples kept at correct temperature, secure from cross contamination, and properly labeled. Relationship Management Maintain working relationships with internal staff, external industry associates, and fieldsmen. Adhere to and help clarify internal ISO procedures and work instructions. Qualifications Six (6) months experience in a WSDA inspection program or in an agricultural setting. Valid driver’s license. Preferred/Desired Qualifications One year experience as an Agriculture Inspector 1 or one‑year experience in an agriculture related field. Familiarity with seed crop diseases. Capacity to distinguish crop, possible contamination and/or pest presence according to state and federal phytosanitary certificate standards. A strong agronomic background including experience as a crop consultant or closely allied field. Two‑year degree with a major in agronomy or closely related field. Employee Benefits A healthy work/life balance, which may include flexible work schedules and teleworking. Excellent benefits package beyond traditional benefits: Dependent Care Assistance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Deferred Compensation, Employee Recognition Leave. 12 paid holidays and vacation and leave accruals. All personal protective equipment (PPE) required will be provided. Commute Trip Reduction Program. Equity The Department of Agriculture recognizes, appreciates, supports, embraces, and respects all cultural identities and backgrounds and is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We hire and cultivate a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and provide equitable access to resources and opportunities for continuous learning and advancement. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Washington Dept. of Agriculture