Current jobs related to Director of Colorado Seed Programs - Fort Collins - Colorado Staffing

Director of Colorado Seed ProgramsPosition Location: Fort Collins, COWork Location: Position qualifies for hybrid/in-office workResearch Professional Position: NoPosition Type: Admin Professional/ Research ProfessionalClassification Title: Management IINumber of Vacancies: 1Work Hours/Week: 40Proposed Annual Salary Range: $85,000-$120,000 plus benefits. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.Employee Benefits: Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.Desired Start Date: Position Start DatePosition End Date (if temporary): N/ATo ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) on 12/31/2025.Description of Work UnitThe Department of Soil and Crop Sciences is focused on education, research, and outreach to solve the world's most pressing food production issues and crucial matters about Earth, its ecosystems, and their services. Our faculty and staff apply research-based solutions to benefit Colorado and the world. We offer academic programs to prepare students to address national and global crop production, sustainability, and environmental quality challenges such as waste management, water quality, and reclamation of drastically disturbed lands. There are numerous opportunities for students to be involved in cutting-edge research related to global food production and ecosystem function and protection.Position SummaryThe Director of Colorado Seed Programs is responsible for the strategic leadership and operational management of the Colorado Seed Growers Association (CSGA), the Seed Technology Education Program (STEP), and the broader suite of seed-related programs at Colorado State University. This includes direct supervision of the managers of the Seed Certification Program, the Colorado Seed Testing Laboratory, and the Agronomy Foundation Seed Program. In collaboration with the CSGA Board of Directors, the Director will oversee all certification and financial activities of CSGA, ensuring alignment with the mission and standards of the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA). The Director will provide leadership and oversight for the Certification Manager, Field Inspector Manager, and guiding the formulation and implementation of policies that uphold the integrity and purpose of seed certification. In addition to field-based responsibilities, the Director will provide strategic direction, operational oversight, and programmatic engagement for both the Colorado Seed Testing Laboratory and the Agronomy Foundation Seed Laboratory. This includes supporting laboratory managers in setting performance goals, ensuring compliance with industry standards, fostering innovation in testing and seed quality assurance, and promoting continuous improvement in service delivery and stakeholder engagement. The Director will lead and train staff in conducting field inspections, evaluate inspection outcomes, and ensure timely and accurate reporting. The role also supports an active CSU Extension educational program through seminars, field days, and the development of written and digital resources for regional stakeholders. A key component of this role involves cultivating partnerships with the seed industry, commodity groups, and governmental agencies to enforce seed production standards, establish and refine certification procedures, and enhance customer service programs that promote satisfaction and trust. The Director will also champion initiatives that elevate the visibility and reputation of Colorado's seed programs, both regionally and nationally. Finally, the Director will provide leadership in advancing inclusive excellence within the seed industry and fostering a professional and inclusive working environment. This position encompasses seed certification for all crops in Colorado, excluding potatoes and watermelons.Required Job QualificationsB.S. degree in an agricultural field or a closely related disciplineDemonstrated strong leadership skills with the ability to manage multiple programs, teams, and organizational partnershipsProven supervisory experience, including staff development and performance evaluationExcellent interpersonal and team-building skillsStrong written and verbal communication abilities, with experience presenting to diverse audiences and stakeholder groupsProficiency in standard office software and digital communication toolsWillingness and ability to travel occasionally overnight (primarily within Colorado, with potential for interstate travel)Must possess a valid driver's license or have access to a licensed driver by the start datePreferred Job QualificationsM.S. degree or equivalent in an agricultural field or a closely related disciplineKnowledge of and experience with seed industry practices, including seed certification, seed production, seed testing, and applied researchFamiliarity with state and national seed laws and regulatory frameworks governing seed quality and certification standardsDemonstrated experience in business or financial management, including budgeting, reporting, and strategic planningProven ability to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and cooperation across academic, industry, and regulatory partnersDemonstrated commitment to advancing inclusive excellence through research, outreach, service, or program development that engages a broad range of stakeholdersEssential DutiesJob Duty Category: Project Management and OversightProvide strategic leadership and operational oversight for Colorado Seed Growers Association (CSGA), Seed Certification, Colorado Seed Testing Laboratory, Agronomy Foundation Seed Program, and the Seed Technology Education Program (STEP)Provide support and direction to the Managers of the Seed Lab and Foundation Seed units, ensuring alignment with university goals, industry standards, and stakeholder needsPromote the visibility, impact, and integration of all seed-related programs within Colorado State University and in collaboration with the CSGA Board of DirectorsFoster a culture of professionalism, inclusive excellence, and continuous improvement across all seed-related departments and programsPercentage Of Time: 25Job Duty Category: Field Inspection and TrainingSupervise, train, and support the Manager of the field inspectors' program; conduct field inspections and provide coverage during peak workload periodsPerform scouting of seed production fields as needed, which includes physically demanding tasks such as walking through uneven terrain, stooping, kneeling, and working in varying environmental conditions including heat, dust, and windPercentage Of Time: 20Job Duty Category: Research and TeachingDevelop research objectives and implement policies and procedures for seed certification, including onboarding new crops and ensuring compliance with state and national seed lawsDirect the Seed Technology Education Program (STEP)Engage with breeding and crop testing programs within the College of Agricultural Sciences to support research, innovation, and integration of certified seed into university-led initiativesPercentage Of Time: 20Job Duty Category: Extension, Outreach, and ServiceCollaborate regularly with seed industry stakeholders, commodity groups, and clientele to maintain high standards of seed quality, certification compliance, and customer serviceBuild and maintain strong relationships with growers, seed producers, and other industry participants to ensure open communication, responsiveness to field-level concerns, and alignment with evolving agricultural needsRepresent CSGA in the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA) and contribute to national policy discussions and standard settingLead educational outreach through CSU Extension, including newsletters, bulletins, presentations, and field days to inform and engage producers and stakeholdersPercentage Of Time: 20Job Duty Category: AdministrationThe Director oversees daily operations of Colorado Seed Programs, including certification, testing, and foundation seed departments, while ensuring compliance with AOSCA standardsResponsibilities include responding to stakeholder inquiries, managing reports, enforcing seed production protocols, and refining certification proceduresThe role also involves supervising and training field inspectors, conducting field scouting under physically demanding conditions, and maintaining strong connections with growers, industry partners, and university collaborators to promote seed program excellencePercentage Of Time: 15Application DetailsSpecial Instructions to Applicants: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but for full consideration, all materials must be received by 12/31/2025. Applicants should upload the following:A cover letter addressing your qualificationsCV or resumeContact information of three