"Research Technician in Forest/Natural Resource Management"

Position Summary:

This position requires a highly motivated and creative individual capable of working in a fast-paced interdisciplinary natural resources research lab. The individual will work in environments including but not limited to the office, laboratory, greenhouse, high tunnel, field, and forest. This position will involve coordinating and facilitating activities pertaining to several grant-funded projects. Duties include project planning, fieldwork, training and mentoring students, staff and interacting with community members during programming. This position requires the applicant to have a valid driver's license.

Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities:

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Plan, manage, and conduct project activities for the Forestry and Natural Resources Management Laboratory, including agroforestry field research in forest farming, alley cropping, and silvopasture.
• Collect, analyze, and prepare data for detailed reports and presentations.
• Write and edit grant proposals, project budgets, and reports to secure additional external funding.
• Help organize extension events, including the Forest Farming Workshops and field days.
• Keep detailed and orderly notes on all project work.
• Prepare and publish peer-reviewed research articles.
• Maintain laboratory facilities, order project supplies, and assist in managing budgets.
• Supervise graduate and undergraduate students during project work activities.
• Ensure all safety guidelines are followed in both the laboratory and fieldwork areas.
• Engage with community members, students, farmers, and fellow researchers to build new working relationships.
• Collaborate with fellow LU employees, outside researchers, and community stakeholders to achieve research objectives.
• Communicate research findings at prominent conferences throughout the United States.
• Develop and disseminate LU guides and factsheets.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Must be able to develop a work schedule and plan for self, team, and others assigned to projects.
• Must be able to use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and other programs to coordinate and facilitate project activities.
• Must be able to work some weekends and extended hours if necessary.
• Willing to travel to off-campus research facilities, participate in conferences, and visit partnering institutions.
• Must have effective communication skills.
• Have knowledge of field, greenhouse, and laboratory management and operations.

Education and Experience:

• A degree in soil sciences, forestry, environmental science, or a closely related field.
• Experience with project management and facilitation.
• Experience leading small teams is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift and move up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to work in cold and hot environmental conditions.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, functions, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, functions, and activities may be modified, changed or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice, subject to all applicable local, state, and federal laws.