Department of Plant Science & Technology

The research specialist will support the “MU Certified” Strip Trial program helps farmers test strategies on their farm to improve efficiency and profitably adopt new practices, and other related projects. Responsibilities for this position include conducting field work related to on-farm trials and other research and extension projects; collect, organize, and process data from research projects; use standard methods for data analysis; contribute to writing reports, papers, and extension materials; and contribute to updating and improving practices related to data processing, organization, analysis and reporting. Potential tasks include collecting plant and soil samples, using farm equipment to apply treatments, working with a farmer to get data off a yield monitor, and working with the project team to brainstorm new strategies to improve current procedures or develop new ideas. The preferred candidate will excel at learning new skills and working collaboratively with other strip trial staff, farmers, Experiment Station staff, and Regional Extension Specialists.

$16.23 - $28.25 per hour

GGS Grade: 007

University Title: Research Specialist I

Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Monday through Friday; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

B.S. and/or B.A. degree is preferred. This can be offset with years of applied experience in field research and/or technical skills in agriculture and precision agriculture. Prefer candidates that have experience with farming and farm equipment. Prefer candidates that have experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) such as ArcPro or Ag Leader and/or with experience in machine learning and related software such as Python. Prefer candidates that have a documented history of working creatively to solve problems. Must maintain a valid drivers license and must obtain a UAV pilot’s license within six months of being hired.
This position requires some overnight travel. This position requires the ability to perform physically demanding tasks outside on farm fields in all seasons of the year. The work requires the ability to walk fields, occasionally lift objects of 50 pounds or more, and be able to bend, kneel, and push/pull. A willingness to work collaboratively and an interest working on innovative approaches is important.

This position is eligible for University benefits. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, and educational fee discounts. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

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We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

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