Research Plot Technician

The University of Minnesota offers a comprehensive benefits package (health and dental) as well as a retirement plan (vested in 5 years) with an option to obtain additional retirement plans for full time employees. The Research Plot Technician position is a 100% full time, continuing position at the Northwest Research and Outreach Center located in Crookston. In this positoin a person will have the ability to work in small plot research with a variety of crops. All applicants must meet the required qualifications of the position; however training will be provided in areas where needed. This position will work one on one with a great team of researchers at NWROC and the University of Minnesota.

Review of application materials will begin on April 25, 2022.

Major Areas of Accountability (with percentages):

1) 25 % Planning and preparation of field and greenhouse experiments including those activities unique to conducting research: plot layout, specialized tillage operations and fertilizer and pesticide applications, application of plot treatments, plot maintenance, and plot harvest.

2) 20 % General plot management and experiment site maintenance activities that include, but are not restricted to the safe operations of tractors, mechanical equipment, and fertilizer and pesticide handling.

3) 20 % Record keeping that can include, but is not all inclusive of, observation notes and data collection, activity and inventory logs, pesticide application records. Also maintain important records, monitor and maintain operating inventories of supplies, and place orders for plot supplies, fertilizer, pesticides, and equipment.

4) 10 % Sample collection and processing activities that can include plant and soil selection for sampling, specific collection protocols, weighing, drying, grinding, sub sampling, packaging, and sample shipment

5) 10 % Participate in or lead the calibration of equipment necessary for the successful completion of research tasks. Equipment can include planters, sprayers, fertilizer applicators and scales.

6) 15 % Participate in or lead in equipment and facilities maintenance, repair, and upkeep.

Required Qualifications:
1. High school graduate and two years related education and/or experience related to the preparation, planting, fertilizing, spraying, and harvesting of agronomic crops as well as operation, maintenance and calibration of equipment.
2. Must have currently or the ability to acquire a commercial driver's license (CDL) and a pesticide applicators license prior to the probationary period of six months.
3. Must have general knowledge and experience of general tractor use and related farm equipment operation.
4. Evidence of being observant, detail oriented, follow both written and verbal instruction, and be a willing participant in a team atmosphere.
5. Must be able to perform essential functions under normal working conditions that include working outside with exposure to weather conditions common to Minnesota and in the presences of potential allergens and irritants including pollen, fungal spores, and chemical pesticides in field and greenhouse environments.
6. Must be able to lift objects up to 40 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications:
1. Knowledge or experience with small plot research management and operations.
2. Willingness to learn or have basic knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

The Northwest Research and Outreach Center, located adjacent to the University of Minnesota's Crookston campus, operates about 1,800 acres of land. The center provides analytical, biological, and field laboratories to U of M faculty, staff, and students to conduct research and demonstrations that will enhance the efficient use of agriculture and natural resources in northwest Minnesota.