Research Specialist Senior

Research Specialist Senior

Company: Virginia Tech

Job Location: Blacksburg, 24061

Category: Laboratory and Research

Type: Full-Time

Job Description

The incumbent will be responsible for day-to-day operations of a weed management field research program in agronomic crops (mostly corn, soybean, and wheat) and pasture/forage that encompasses approximately 50 trials per year throughout Virginia. Duties will include but are not limited to plot layout, herbicide application, planting, data collection, and harvesting. Familiarity with and ability to operate associated equipment (tractor, planter, drill, pesticide sprayers, plot combine, etc.) is crucial, as well as ability to safely load/unload and transport equipment. Duties will also include leading the execution of scientific protocols and technical data collection. The incumbent will be responsible for maintaining equipment and facilities to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. To help accomplish these tasks, the incumbent will supervise undergraduate hourly assistants. Additionally, the incumbent will work closely with VT weed science faculty and graduate research assistants. For success, the incumbent must have excellent written and oral communication as well as time management and organizational skills. Flexibility, ability to prioritize, positive attitude and problem-solving skills are highly desired. Overnight travel is required during the field season. Planting and harvest seasons may include late nights and weekend work. This position requires physical strength and ability to work in hot, cold, and sometimes adverse weather conditions. The incumbent must possess or have the ability to obtain a pesticide applicator's license within six (6) months of employment.

Required Qualifications

• B.S. degree in agronomy or related discipline; and/or equivalent years of training and work experience;
• Operational knowledge of corn and soybean agronomic and cultural practices (additional crops preferred including pasture/forage);
• Demonstrated experience with farm equipment (listed above);
• Pesticide applicator's license or ability to obtain one within 6 months of hire;
• Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs;
• Valid Driver's license and clean driving record;
• Fluency in English;
• Experience using Microsoft Office software.

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. degree;
• Previous small plot research experience;
• Experience in statistical analysis, interpretation, and presentation of data;
• Previous supervisory experience;
• Experience managing a multilocation field testing network;
• Experience working with regulated GMO material and associated USDA APHIS requirements;
• Experience with ARM software.

Pay Band 4

Overtime Status Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type Regular

Salary Information 47,921 to 55,000

Hours per week 40

Review Date 05/10/2026

Additional Information The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check. Department/unit is unable to sponsor a visa for this position.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dr. Michael Flessner at flessner@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

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