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- Tasks: Join our team to analyze seeds for the Scottish Government and farmers, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Company: The Scottish Government is dedicated to improving lives through public service across various sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, a supportive environment, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in seed testing while contributing to agriculture and environmental sustainability.
- Qualifications: No mandatory qualifications required; just bring your attention to detail and eagerness to learn.
- Other info: Full-time lab position with opportunities for continuous training and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Job Description
Would you like to play a key role in the provision of seed analysis for the Scottish Government, seed trade and farmers?
If so, we are looking for an individual with excellent attention to detail and strong analytical skills to join our Team.
The Official Seed Testing Station (OSTS) comprises 15 staff a mix of Senior Scientists who are responsible for testing of all certified seed in Scotland through supervision of Licensed Seed Testing Stations and provision of a testing service to Government and the seed trade. We have an exciting opportunity to join the team to assist train with the Analysts in providing seed testing services to Government and the seed trade.
Training is required in different crop divisions and statutory tetrazolium testing to pass UK Certificate of Proficiency in Seed Testing examinations as required by Scottish Seeds Regulations. Training in loose smut (Ustilago nuda) and vigour testing to work towards gaining competencies. Continuous learning for seed identification to identify new seeds and continue to refresh in species already learned. You will be expected to undertake this training and pass an exam on completion.
Responsibilities
- Carry out analytical testing of purity, moisture, germination, thousand seed weight, vigour for cereals, grasses, pulses, brassica, clovers and vegetables included in the Scottish Seeds Regulations.
- Carry out seed pathology tests.
- Complete evaluation of test material ensuring that International Rules for Seed Testing are applied, and work meets the quality requirement of ISO 17025, ISTA Accreditation and current Scottish and UK legislation.
- Work and train within the QA environment to ensure the validity of results produced.
- Ensure all records, data and information relating to a seed sample are presented accurately and timely on the SEEDS database (Seed Testing and Certification information management system).
- Seed sample registration and reporting of results including communication with both internal and external customers.
- Field and laboratory work to support seed testing research and development programme.
- Work in other areas of SASA, including fieldwork, as required.
- General laboratory duties including responsibility for a range of quality control duties.
Success Profile
Success profiles are specific to each job and they include the mix of skills, experience and behaviours candidates will be assessed on.
Technical / Professional Skills
- Building and applying knowledge – Can explain why the approach taken in own work area is important and understands the importance of data quality, identifying and raising issues relevant to work – Foundation Level
- Communicating science and engineering for government – Generates, collates and provides succinct scientific, technical or engineering evidence to fulfil requirements and explains clearly the technical evidence resulting from their own work and the implications for the project or policy being delivered – Foundation Level
Experience
- A good attention to detail ensuring accuracy when carrying out tasks.
Behaviours
- Seeing the bigger picture – Level 1
- Making effective decisions – Level 1
- Working together – Level 1
- Delivering at Pace – Level 1
How To Apply
Apply online 23 February 2025 , providing a CV and Supporting Statement of no more than 750 words which provides evidence of how you meet the skills, experience and behaviours listed in the Success Profile above.
If invited for further assessment, this will consist of an interview and Presentation .
Assessments are scheduled for w/c 17 March 2025 however this may be subject to change.
Qualifications
No mandatory qualifications.
About Us
The Scottish Government is the devolved government for Scotland. We have responsibility for a wide range of key policy areas including: education, health, the economy, justice, housing and transport. We offer rewarding careers and employ people across Scotland in a wide range of professions and roles.
Our staff are part of the UK Civil Service, working for Ministers and senior stakeholders to deliver vital public services which improve the lives of the people of Scotland.
We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment along with a wide range of employee benefits. Find out more about what we offer.
As part of the UK Civil Service, we uphold the Civil Service Nationality Rules.
Working Pattern
Our standard hours are 35 hours per week, we offer a range of flexible working options depending on the needs of the role. This job is full time on site in the lab. If you have specific questions about the role you are applying for, please contact us.
Equality Statement
We are committed to equality and inclusion and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation.
Find out more about our commitment to diversity and how we offer and support recruitment adjustments for anyone who needs them.
Further information
Find out more about our organisation, what we offer staff members and how to apply on our Careers Website.
Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
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Seed Analyst employer: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
Contact Detail:
THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Seed Analyst
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the Scottish Seeds Regulations and the International Rules for Seed Testing. Understanding these regulations will not only help you in your role but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current seed analysts or professionals in the field through networking platforms like LinkedIn. This can provide you with insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of the role, which you can reference in your discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the presentation component of the assessment by practicing how to clearly communicate scientific data. Focus on explaining complex information succinctly, as this is a key skill highlighted in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest developments in seed testing and agricultural science. Showing that you are proactive about continuous learning will align well with the expectations of the role and impress your interviewers.
We think you need these skills to ace Seed Analyst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Seed Analyst position. Make sure you understand the responsibilities and the skills required, especially the importance of attention to detail and analytical skills.
Craft Your Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement should be no more than 750 words. Clearly demonstrate how your skills, experience, and behaviors align with the Success Profile outlined in the job description. Use specific examples to illustrate your points.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and supporting statement, emphasize any relevant experience you have in seed testing, laboratory work, or related fields. Mention any training or certifications that relate to seed analysis or agricultural sciences.
Prepare for the Interview: If you are invited for an interview, prepare by reviewing common interview questions related to analytical skills and teamwork. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences and how they relate to the role of a Seed Analyst.
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
✨Show Your Attention to Detail
As a Seed Analyst, attention to detail is crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where your meticulous nature led to successful outcomes in analytical tasks.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
Highlight your strong analytical skills during the interview. Discuss any relevant experience you have with seed testing or similar analytical work, and be ready to explain how you approach problem-solving in a scientific context.
✨Familiarize Yourself with Relevant Regulations
Make sure you understand the Scottish Seeds Regulations and ISO 17025 standards. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these regulations will show that you are serious about the role and understand the importance of compliance in seed testing.
✨Prepare for Team Collaboration Questions
Since the role involves working closely with a team, be ready to answer questions about teamwork. Think of examples where you successfully collaborated with others, especially in a laboratory or research setting.
