Research Technician

Essential Job Duties

The Research Technician supports agricultural field research activities at the research stations by assisting with a variety of research, operational, and facility support functions. As research programs evolve, this position contributes to a broad range of activities involving field crops, horticultural crops, livestock, and agricultural equipment operations that support the success and integrity of ongoing research projects.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Assist faculty members with research test setup, implementation of treatments, and collection and recording of research data.
• Maintain field crops, horticultural crops, and livestock according to established research protocols.
• Maintain data logs related to field activities, equipment usage and repairs, and daily operational activities.
• Operate research and farm equipment, including tractors, loaders, combines, and specialized research equipment.
• Maintain research facilities and grounds and perform minor repairs as needed.
• Work outdoors in varying environmental conditions, including heat and cold, while supporting agricultural research activities involving crops and livestock.
• Safely operate agricultural equipment and perform physically active work in support of research operations, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Contribute to the accuracy, consistency, and overall quality of research activities that support valid and reliable research outcomes.

This position is located in Bahama, NC.

Other Work/Responsibilities

• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Experience/Education

Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

Required Qualifications

• Basic familiarity with livestock management and farm equipment (tractors and back hoes) operation and the ability to operate that equipment safely and accurately, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Able to lift up to 50lbs on a daily basis, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to read and follow research protocols and pesticide labels.
• Ability to communicate in both oral and written forms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting agricultural, horticultural, livestock, or field-based research activities.
• Demonstrated ability to safely operate and maintain farm or research equipment, including tractors, loaders, or similar machinery.
• Experience maintaining data logs, research records, or field activity documentation with attention to accuracy and detail.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying environmental conditions while performing physically active tasks, including lifting up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to follow written research protocols, safety procedures, and pesticide label instructions while working independently and as part of a research team.

Required license or certification

NC Drivers License or the ability to obtain within 60 days of start.