Assistant Manager- Quality

Company: Mahindra Agri Solutions Position Details Business Unit/Division MASL- Seeds Position Assitt./Deputy Manager -Quality ( Seed Testing) - Quality Assurance Department Place of Posting Medchal/Mulugu , HYDERABAD Reporting To Dr.GANAR HARESH Responsibilities & Key Deliverables Job Summary:To ensure the quality and purity of seeds lots through effective sampling planning , testing , documentations and adherance to national and international seed tetsing standard ( ISTA / Seed Act) . The role involves managing seeds testing operations , maintaining laboratory accuracy , and supporting continuous quality improvement initiatives and collaborating with cross-functional teams to maintain and improve seed quality assurance procedures. The accuracy, efficiency, reproducability, and reliability of seed quality evaluations, analysis are the key success factors. Key Responsibilities:1. Seed Testing & AnalysisConduct physical purity, germination, moisture content, vigour, and genetic purity tests as per standard protocols.Ensure compliance with ISTA, Indian Seed Act, and company-specific quality standards.Validate test results and maintain accurate laboratory records.Supervise and train laboratory staff on seed testing methods and equipment handling.2. Quality Assurance & ComplianceSchedule and Coordinate with processing team for sample receipt to conduct the interval testing and in case of validating the stock for further clearance. Keep track on the sample to be received.Ensure all seed lots meet regulatory and market-specific requirements before release.Coordinate with the quality team and processing team for release of stock for processing, packing, blending and despatch. Prepare/ incorporate amendment the Seed Testing Manual in compliance with the ISTA/ISO.Support implementation of QA systems in seed production, processing, and packaging.Conduct internal audits and coordinate with external auditors (e.g., certification agencies).Maintain traceability and documentation for seed lots tested.3. Equipment & Laboratory, Manpower resource ManagementCalibrate and maintain seed testing instruments (germinator, moisture meters, purity boards, etc.).Ensure laboratory hygiene, biosafety, and environmental control conditions are maintained.Manage inventory of consumables and reference materials.Prepare lab budget and manage with the established guidelinePrepare the infrastructural requirement and improvement plan for the lab and soil test4. Data Management & ReportingMaintain digital ( SAP) and manual records of test data.Generate quality reports and submit timely updates to management.Assist in preparation of annual QA reports, trend analysis, and corrective action plans.Coordinate with SAP team for the improvement in SAP QA module as per requirement and take up quality module configuration for new products.processing, packing, blending and despatch. Prepare consolidated data on monthly basis on total inventory quality status for qualified stock availability for prioritizing liquidation and providing data for taking up disposal decision.Prepare the consolidated report on Receipt Quality Analysis (for Raw seeds and SR stock). Prepare the consolidated report and communicate weekly on total Sample Receipt for physical quality, Germination & GOT. 5. Continuous ImprovementIdentify opportunities to improve seed quality testing efficiency and accuracy.Implement new testing technologies (e.g., image analysis, molecular markers for purity testing).Participate in training programs and workshops related to seed quality management.6) Collaboration: Collaborate with Processing, Production, and Quality Control teams to communicate quality issues, recommend improvements, and support product development ( value additions).7) Problem Solving: Investigate and resolve any quality-related issues or discrepancies in the seed testing process/quality issue , and recommend corrective actions to prevent future occurrence9) Training: Provide training to team members or colleagues on seed enhancement processes, quality standards, and safety protocols. Experience (years) 5-10 Years Job Requirements Industry Preferred Agriculture Qualification Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Seed Science & Technology, Plant Biology/ Physiologist, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus. Position Grade Hiring Specs Must Have 1) Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Seed Science & Technology , Plant Biology/ Physiologist/Biotechnologist, or a related field.2) Previous experience in seed enhancement, seed treatment, or a related field is preferred.3) Proficiency in seed enhancement techniques and equipment operation.4) Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.5) Knowledge of industry regulations and quality standards related to seed testing/ enhancement.6) Excellent communication and teamwork skills.7) Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.8) Willingness to adapt to evolving technology and methods in seed enhancement.9) Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor environments, including seed treatment facilities and testing laboratories Names of Companies from where we can get this talent . Good to Have Master's degree in a related field.Additional certifications or training in seed quality assurance.(Add any other desirable qualifications here.)