Pathology Technologist

Job Summary

Conduct routine and specialized seed health assays to detect and identify seedborne pathogens using microbiological, pathological, serological, and molecular methods. Perform, troubleshoot, and interpret diagnostic tests; maintain accurate laboratory records and databases; and ensure compliance with quality and biosafety standards.

Isolate, identify, and preserve pathogen cultures, support assay development and validation, and maintain laboratory equipment. Collaborate with pathology, seed health, and breeder support teams to deliver reliable seed health and diagnostic results and support seed health research objectives. Perform laboratory maintenance and other assigned pathology and microbiology activities.

Essential Duties

and Responsibilities* Conduct routine and advanced seed health assays, including sample preparation, test implementation, evaluation, data recording, and laboratory cleanup. Assays may include seed extraction, liquid plating, blotter assays, grow-out tests, and other seed health testing procedures. Assist the Plant Pathologist in evaluating, troubleshooting, and interpreting microbiological, pathological, serological, and molecular diagnostic assays.

Support method development, validation, quality assurance, and continuous improvement initiatives. Conduct growth chamber and greenhouse bioassays to assess the virulence of bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens, including host propagation, inoculation, disease evaluation, data collection, and result interpretation. Receive and log seed samples, schedule routine tests, and maintain accurate laboratory records through sample entry, data entry, retrieval, and reporting systems.

Isolate, identify, preserve, and maintain plant pathogen cultures and reference collections. Prepare and maintain culture media, buffers, reagents, and other laboratory supplies. Support research and development activities related to seed health, seed production, disease diagnostics, and breeding programs. Assist with special projects and pathology-related assignments as directed.

Maintain laboratory equipment, ensure compliance with biosafety and quality standards, and perform routine laboratory organization, sanitation, and housekeeping. Perform other duties as assigned. Supervisory Duties This job has no supervisory responsibilities. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Basic knowledge of microbiology, plant pathogens, chemistry, math, and biology.

Good oral and written communication skills and good organizational skills. Ability to develop excellent laboratory skills in microbiology and chemistry. Ability to quickly adapt and be receptive to changing work demands, techniques, and/or approaches. Able to do accurate and detailed work under time constraints and deadlines, and able to adjust to seasonal surges in workload.

Ability to do routine and repetitious work for several hours in the laboratory or greenhouse. Ability to work both independently and in a team. Accuracy, efficiency, good dexterity and visual acuity are critical. Competency in data management and use of computer applications. Ability to handle stress, especially when encountering necessary projects, deadlines and/or high workload.

Must be able to work under strict time constraints and requirements. Willingness to take on a wide variety of tasks and duties. Able to train and lead personnel in specified technical applications.

Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology or related fields, or associate degree in microbiology with 3 to 5 years of experience in related areas such as plant pathology, seed health. Working Conditions/Physical Demands Must be willing to work overtime hours, including some weekends and holidays, as requested. Must be able to work with laboratory chemicals, pesticides and other possibly irritating substances.

Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, respirator, and lab coat) when necessary and/or required. Must be able to stand, sit and/or bend for several hours at a time. Must be able to do some lightweight (< 50 lbs.) items. Additional remarks regarding work environment: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk, working on benchtop in lab, and working on a computer.

Benefits

Health & Wellness Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Monthly Wellness Stipend Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Disability Insurance (plans vary by location) Financial Benefits 401(k) Program + Company Match Profit Sharing Program (via 401(k) Holiday Bonus Performance Incentive Bonus Program Tuition Reimbursement 529 College‑Savings Plan Company-Paid Basic Life & AD&D Insurance Time Off & Flexibility Paid Vacation Paid Sick Leave 14 Paid Company Holidays 2 Floating Holidays Birthday Off