Job ID358837 LocationAll Other -See Job Description Job FamilyLR-Technical Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code4926 Employee ClassAFSCME Unit 7 - Technical About the Job Northwest Research and Outreach Center, located in Crookston, MN College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) Field Research Technician, reporting to Michael Leiseth, Crookston, MN, a full-time 100% appointment with full benefits at an affordable cost. If you love agriculture and are interested in learning more about how agricultural research impacts food production, then we have a job for you. The ideal candidate loves the outdoors, is willing to get their hands dirty, and wants to be part of a terrific team in a small department of dedicated research specialists. If these fit with your goals for career advancement, then this is the place for you - in Crookston, MN. Position and/or Unit Overview: We, at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center in Crookston, MN are looking for a highly motivated, detail-oriented, full-time Field Research Technician to assist the researchers in the development of improved agronomic and pest & disease management. The job duties involve assisting in planning, organizing, and conducting small plot research. Working with a group of individuals called the Research Support Group to successfully accomplish the assigned job duties. Must have excellent communication and coordination skills are necessary. The position is responsible for field preparation, planting, plot maintenance, spraying, data collection, and harvesting of crops using farm equipment such as planters, grain drills, pesticide applicators, fertilizer spreaders, and combines made by John Deere and Wintersteiger and as a part of the research support group. Major Areas of Accountability (with percentages): 45% Research Plot Maintenance Consists of, but is not limited to, tillage, planting, spraying, and harvesting by using tractors and specialized research equipment. Pest and disease scouting. Planning and preparation of research trial layouts. 20% Record Keeping Data collection: Consists of, but is not limited to maturity notes, plant sampling, soil sampling, and disease assessment. Using computer software to keep and maintain data. (Microsoft Office) Maintain inventory of seed, chemical, equipment records, and time. 20% Equipment calibration and maintenance Maintain equipment used for tillage, planting, spraying, and harvesting. Calibrating equipment prior to and throughout the growing season for proper functioning and to obtain accurate data. 15% Other duties Collect and process samples following assigned protocols. Gain knowledge of how to manage and maintain the crops. Assist in inoculum preparation. Assist in any assigned greenhouse and laboratory studies. What do you do as a Field Research Technician? Small plot research consists of duplicating the practices of commercial farming but at a much smaller scale and at the same time incorporating and evaluating a new practice or product. Daily activities are much like farming on a small scale. A plot can be two square feet and up to three-quarters of an acre. A Field Research Technician works hands-on with a variety of row crops, operates, and maintains specialized equipment such as John Deere and Wintersteiger small plot equipment, and works with a group of individuals called the Research Support Group. The Research Support Group works together to plant, maintain, collect data, and harvest all 16 different crops. The research we do in the plots assists the University of Minnesota researchers in developing new crop varieties, new crop production, and crop protection methods to help manage pests and diseases, or maybe find that new bin buster every farmer has been looking for. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: (please indicate in your application if you meet these requirements) 1. High school graduate or equivalent, and two years related education and/or experience in ag iculture. Preferred Qualifications: (it is to your benefit to address any of these attributes in your application materials) 1. Experience in mechanized agriculture and safe operation of motorized farm equipment, farm background, and farm experience 2. Ability to obtain a Certified Pesticide Applicator License for applying herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, etc. 3. Knowledge/ability to maintain and repair farm equipment. 4. Evidence of being observant and detail-oriented, following both written and verbal instructions, and being a willing participant in a team atmosphere. 5. Use of computer for basic word processing and data entry/analysis 6. Ability to drive a pick-up truck with a gooseneck trailer. Ability to load a trailer with a tractor or combine. About the Department The Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWOC) is located adjacent to the University of Minnesota Crookston campus. The NWROC is part of the University of MN College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences (CFANS), which owns about 1,500 acres of land. The center provides analytical, biological, and field laboratories to U of M faculty, staff, and students to conduct research and demonstrations that will enhance the efficient use of agriculture and natural resources in northwest Minnesota. Benefits Working at the University At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work. The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer-paid life insurance Employee wellbeing program Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost Please visit the for more information regarding benefits. How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647). Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with... For full info follow application link. The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.