Program Assistant

The Montana State Seed Laboratory tests seed samples for farmers, seedsmen, the Montana Seed Growers Association, the Montana Department of Agriculture, and the seed industry. Seed testing provides the needed information for determining the value of the seed. These tests determine percentages of pure seed, other crop seed, weed seed, inert matter and germination in seeds used for planting.



Testing seed gives the individual a broad understanding of the germination potential and possible weed contamination of a seed lot. By knowing the results of the tests, individuals can evaluate the potential of a seed lot before planting to ensure adequate stand and maximum yield.



Duties and Responsibilities

Under supervision of the Seed Lab Manager: Provide administrative and program support to include; sample log-in and initial preparation of samples; oversee the receipt and processing of submitted samples; enter and send final lab reports; generate and present reports to the Board of Directors; assist with process to become USDA accredited; supervise short term and student employees and train them in a variety of procedures, distribute mass emails and brochures to customers, generate and maintain web pages, manage supply and equipment inventories; arrange meetings, conferences and travel for laboratory staff; respond to general questions regarding lab services, fees, and procedures; maintain office calendar, work on special projects – including but not limited to education and public relations. Related duties as required.



Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills

Two-years post-secondary education, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.

Demonstrated competence generating reports, communicating detailed information effectively to various constituents (staff, faculty, administrators, customers, regulatory agencies, Board of Directors, etc.).

Demonstrated competence organizing and prioritizing multiple work assignments, meeting deadlines, and changing priorities while maintaining a positive, effective, and professional approach.

Demonstrated exceptional customer service skills.

Demonstrated competence using personal computers and various software such as word processing, spreadsheets, database, email, and internet programs.



Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills

Knowledge of the agricultural industry

Working knowledge of Microsoft Publisher and Pure Harvest.

Supervisory experience.

Knowledge of MSU policies and procedures or previous experience working in an academic department in higher education.



The Successful Candidate Will

Have the ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with various constituencies, including students, administrators, co-workers, and faculty, and customers.

Balance independent work and team-oriented work in a productive manner to foster a cooperative work environment.

Demonstrate accuracy, attention to detail and thoroughness in their work product.

Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Possess excellent organizational skills and critical thinking skills in order to prioritize and manage several simultaneous projects with dynamic, and sometimes conflicting priorities.

Have the aptitude for problem solving and facilitating the work of others.

Demonstrate good judgment and self-motivation.

Represent the College of Agriculture, the Montana State Seed Testing Laboratory, and MSU to others in a professional and courteous manner.



Position Special Requirements/Additional Information

This is a nine-month position, August – April annually. Hours will vary from 20 to 40 hours per week depending on need.



This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.



Physical Demands

Must have excellent manual dexterity.

Must be able to move 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.

Must be able to work around possible irritants like seeds, seed dust, and chaff.



To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.



This position has supervisory duties? Yes

Posting Detail Information



Number of Vacancies 1

Desired Start Date Upon completion of a successful search.

Position End Date (if temporary)

Open Date

Close Date



Applications will be:

Screening of applications will begin on July 7, 2022; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.



Special Instructions

This is a nine-month position, August – April annually. Hours will vary from 20 to 40 hours per week depending on need.)



Diversity Statement



Montana State University values diverse perspectives and is committed to continually supporting, promoting and building an inclusive and culturally diverse campus environment. MSU recognizes the importance of work-life integration and strives to be responsive to the needs of dual career couples.



In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.



MSU’s Non-Discrimination Policy and Discrimination Grievance Procedures can be located on the MSU Website: https://www.montana.edu/hr/recruitment/dualcareer.html