Position Summary:

The Research Specialist/Technician position is a full-time, benefit eligible position, and renewed annually based on job performance and funding availability. The main purpose of this position is to assist researchers in designing and conducting soil and plant related field, laboratory, and/or greenhouse experiments.

Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities:

• Fieldwork (75%): coordinate research projects including routine maintenance of experimental plots (e.g., irrigation, weeding, data collection).
• Lab work (20%) assist with processing of large volume of samples (plant, soil, air/gas, etc.)
• Other tasks as assigned by the supervisor. For example, the Research Specialist will also assist the work of graduate students. (5%)
• Active participation and delivery of technology transfer efforts such as field days and workshops are expected.
• In-state travel for research and outreach programs is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated written and oral communications skills.
• Good computer skills, including strong competency with excel spreadsheet, PowerPoint presentation, word processing, etc.
• Basic knowledge of agriculture and the ability and desire to conduct greenhouse and fieldwork in all weather conditions.
• Must have a valid driver's license or the ability to obtain a driver's license.
• Knowledge and ability to operate farm machinery.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree, or above in agriculture or closely related field.
• Candidates with experience in operating farm equipment are strongly preferred.
• Experience in laboratory analysis of samples (soil, plant, water, and/or air samples) and experience working with greenhouse and field experiments is highly desired.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Prolonged periods of working outside in all weather conditions.