Research Farm Technician

Department: FAES | Research Operations Administration

Location: Eastern Agricultural Research Station
Address: 16870 Bond Ridge Rd, Caldwell, OH 43724, United States of America

Position Summary:

The Agricultural Research Technician supports the daily operations and research activities at the Eastern Agricultural Research Station in Caldwell, Ohio. This role involves hands-on work with livestock, forage production, and agricultural machinery, contributing to research in animal science and environmental sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with general station operations, upkeep, and maintenance of facilities and machinery
• Build and repair fences; perform daily animal care and health monitoring per SOPs and veterinary guidance
• Support breeding, handling, and welfare of livestock including beef cattle and sheep
• Assist in forage production, including planting, maintaining, and harvesting pastures and experimental plots
• Operate agricultural machinery and specialized research equipment; perform calibration, adjustments, and minor repairs
• Work flexible schedules during calving, lambing, breeding seasons, and harvest periods based on weather and crop conditions
• Collaborate with faculty, graduate students, and staff to implement livestock research and outreach programs
• Apply experimental treatments, collect data and samples, and report observations that may impact research outcomes
• Maintain detailed records of operations and experimental parameters
• Assist with training seasonal employees and supporting public events such as field days
• Occasionally perform similar duties at other research locations as needed
• Stay current with required OSU web-based trainings

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School diploma or GED
• 2 years of experience in large animal production
• Valid Ohio Driver’s License
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and perform physical labor for extended periods
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and email communication
• Experience operating agricultural machinery and livestock trailers
• Strong communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in Animal Science or equivalent experience
• 4–6 years of experience in large animal production, especially in a research environment

Additional Information:

• This job profile is a Farm Coordinator 3 (T3 level) position on the career roadmap.
• The offer for this position will fall within this range based on internal equity, unit’s available budget, and the candidate’s qualifications

Location: Eastern ARS Unit 1 - Office and Shop (0749) Position Type: Regular Scheduled Hours: 40 Shift: First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.