Researcher 2 - Field Research Technician

Apply for Job Job ID372931 LocationTwin Cities Job FamilyResearch Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code8352AG Employee Class Add to Favorite Jobs Email this Job About the Job Researcher 2 - Field Research Technician St. Paul Campus College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) Reporting To: Dr. Jacob Jungers In-person position 12 Month Appointment for 1 year Visa Language: Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program. Position Overview: A Research 2 position is available to support field research that improves the productivity and profitability of oilseed, turfgrass seed, and small grain production in Minnesota. The position coordinates field activities such as site preparation, plot layout, planting, treatment applications, general maintenance, note taking, and harvesting in collaboration with the project partners. The position will work with faculty, students and research staff to collect data, plant, and soil samples throughout the growing season. Opportunities to engage with farmer groups at meetings and field days will occur throughout the year. Extensive travel will be required to various UMN Research and Outreach Centers including at least six mutli-day trips annually to the Magnusson Research Farm in Roseau, MN. Crops involved with the research projects administered by this position include, but are not limited to, canola, camelina, pennycress, perennial ryegrass, hard fescue, KernzaTM intermediate wheatgrass, oats, wheat, and barley. Major Areas of Accountability (with percentages): Research Plot Management and Site Maintenance 40% Follow complex research and coordinate plot management plans on numerous crops with each crop requiring its own specifications according to a project PI. Independently plan and prepare field experiments including those activities unique to conducting research: plot layout, specialized tillage operations, fertilizer, pesticide applications, application of plot treatments, plot maintenance, and plot harvest. Independently manage general plot management and site maintenance activities that include, but are not restricted to tractor operations, mechanical equipment operations, and fertilizer and pesticide handling. Maintain detailed records of field activities including dates, rates, and conditions of nutrient and pesticide applications. Data Collection 30 % Collect plant, soil and atmospheric data using technical research instruments. Maintain data loggers and sensors that collect continuous environmental data Provide detailed observations of each crop while generating, recording, analyzing and summarizing data. Data Management 10% Enter data into electronic data sheets, organize data to meet needs of analysts, conduct standard quality control and assurance procedures. Build and maintain a repository of data collection protocols. Sample processing 10% Grind plant and soil samples, weigh biomass samples, thresh grain from seed heads, image grains, and scan biomass samples with near infrared spectroscopy. Laboratory Setup 5 % Organize and set up lab equipment, calibrate equipment necessary for the successful completion of research tasks. Equipment can include specialized planters, sprayers, fertilizer applicators and scales. Meetings and Events 5% Communicate with growers and relevant stakeholders in Minnesota to inform research priorities and disseminate research findings. Attend local and regional agricultural meetings and field days to network with university, crop consultants, growers and other agricultural stakeholders Qualifications Required Qualifications BA/BS degree plus at least two (2) years of relevant experience in agriculture,or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least six(6) years. Demonstrated ability to work independently and handle multiple projects simultaneously. The ability to obtain a Certified Pesticide Appli ator License within six (6) months of hire for applying restricted pesticides such as herbicides, fungicides, insecticides. Evidence of good communication and collaboration skills. Evidence of being observant and detail-oriented, and the ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Ability to drive a pick-up truck with a trailer. Ability to load a trailer with a tractor or combine. Ability to pass a respirator fit test. Desired Qualifications Master of Science in plant pathology, plant breeding, agronomy, biology, or related fields. Experience in field research Evidence of using a computer and Google workspace, which is the preferred method in sharing data. Must have knowledge of Microsoft Office programs for processing and data entry/analysis Demonstrated ability to operate and maintain field research equipment such as tractors, tillage equipment, plot planters, and sprayers. About the Department The Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics has 25 faculty members with strength in breeding, genetics/genomics, biotechnology, agronomy/agroecology, weed science and crop physiology. Faculty research programs are focused on improvement of traditional and emerging crops and developing agronomic practices for crops that are of key importance to agriculture in the upper Midwest and beyond. Faculty in the department are members of the Applied Plant Sciences. Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $26.50 - $28.50 per hour, depending on education/qualifications/experience Time Appointment: 100% Appointment 1 year appointment Position Type:Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility. The University 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 Regents Tuition Benefit Program 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) opportunity Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area 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 be given 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

Created: 2026-03-30