Research Technician

The Research Technician position is a multi-disciplinary agricultural research field position in support of all research station operations. This position will assist with all tasks related to the establishment, maintenance, and disposition of field crops, vegetables, fruit, and tobacco.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Application of treatments to research subjects according to protocol, including pesticides, fertilizers, and irrigation.
• Operation of a wide variety of agricultural equipment to prepare fields, apply treatments, and harvest crops.
• Assist research personnel with plot layout, implementation of treatments, and collection and recording of data.
• Hand planting and harvest.
• Working with various types of irrigation equipment, including laying solid set pipe, drip, and linear irrigation systems.

This position will also assist with the maintenance of equipment, grounds, buildings, field plots, and other tasks. The validity of a research test depends upon the quality of work in the Research Technician position.

This position is located in Kinston, NC.

Other Work/Responsibilities:

• Assist with general upkeep and maintenance of overall facility and equipment.
• Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Minimum Experience/Education:

Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

Required Qualifications:

• Requires a working knowledge of horticultural crop production and harvesting practices.
• Requires knowledge of or training in operating procedures for all types of tractors, pull-type and integral-mounted equipment, self-propelled machinery, irrigation systems, sprayers and specialized research equipment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of agricultural practices related to crop and livestock production. Experience in agriculture and/or agricultural research.
• Experience operating and adjusting farm equipment, including calibration.
• Ability to read and follow pesticide labels and research protocols.
• Ability to collect and record data accurately.

Required license or certification:

• Must obtain NCDA&CS Forklift Driver certification within 6 months of hire.
• A valid driver's license is required for travel. NC driver's license required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained.