Seed Lab Technician (Entry Level, Life Sciences)
The R&D Seed Technician supports global seed research and development by performing seed processing, quality control, and packaging tasks in a fast-paced, FDA-regulated manufacturing environment. This role involves operating automated equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, and assisting with production and warehouse operations to maintain high-quality seed products.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Responsibilities
The Seed Lab Technician will support R&D seed processing and quality functions in a hands-on laboratory/manufacturing environment. Key responsibilities include:
- Operate research and seed-processing equipment; perform routine preventative maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
- Receive, scan, clean, treat, sort, count, label and prepare seeds for research and production.
- Perform quality control testing (approximately 4+ hours per shift) and document results accurately.
- Maintain GMP and regulated seed stewardship standards; follow permit conditions, SOPs and safety procedures.
- Support packaging, labeling and filling processes; manage seed flow through automated equipment into distribution cassettes.
- Conduct routine audits, process validations and implement corrective actions when required.
- Assist production teams with quality oversight and hazard management.
- Cross-train to support other groups once QC testing is complete.
- Lift and move up to 50 lbs and work extended/second-shift hours during peak season as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma required.
- 1–2+ years experience in a related setting (agriculture, life sciences, quality, GMP, packaging or warehouse operations). A 4-year STEM degree may be considered in lieu of industry experience.
- Proven attention to detail and ability to work accurately in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
- Flexibility to work second shift during busy seasons.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, environmental science, biology, chemistry or another STEM field.
- Experience with labeling, inventory systems, automation support and quality assurance.
- Familiarity with FDA-regulated manufacturing environments and GMP practices.
Work Environment & Schedule
This is a fully onsite, contract, full-time role based in Whitestown, IN. The position is performed in a climate-controlled manufacturing/lab setting that operates automated equipment and places a high emphasis on safety and quality.
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay range: $23.00 per hour.
- If eligible, temporary-role benefits may include: medical, dental & vision; critical illness, accident & hospital plans; 401(k) with pre-tax and Roth options; voluntary life & AD&D; short- and long-term disability; HSA; transportation benefits; Employee Assistance Program; and paid time off per policy.
- Individual pay offered will depend on qualifications, experience and other job-related factors.
Employment Type & Location
- Employment type: Contract — Full-time (on-site)
- Location: Whitestown, IN (fully onsite)
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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