Research Technician, Soil Science

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 32,000 - 51,000; Part time

Job summary

University of Saskatchewan is seeking a Research Technician, Soil Science to support field-based research in Dr. Arcand’s lab. The role involves field data and sample collection, plus lab processing and basic analyses, with travel to fields for day trips and occasional overnights.

The position is 3 months with 0.6 FTE, on-campus work location, and a salary band of CAD 32,104.80–51,376.00 annually. Starting salary commensurate with education and experience.

Qualifications

• Diploma or undergraduate degree in natural resource management, agronomy, soil science or related field.
• Fieldwork experience is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Assist with fieldwork including soil and plant sample collection at agricultural fields and small plots.
• Assist with sample processing and basic laboratory analyses.
• Maintain a clean and safe lab and fieldwork environment.

Skills

Fieldwork

Laboratory analyses

Teamwork

Communication

Outdoor work

Education

Diploma or Undergraduate degree in natural resource management or related field

Job description

Research Technician, Soil Science

Primary Purpose: The position will primarily support field-based research in Dr. Arcand’s lab in the Department of Soil Science and will include a combination of field data and sample collection as well as sample processing and basic analyses in the laboratory.
Nature of Work: Working in the research group of Dr. Arcand and under the day-to-day supervision of senior research technicians, post-doctoral fellows, and graduate students, the technician will assist diverse activities to contribute to the successful delivery of multiple research projects related to climate-smart agriculture with Indigenous communities as well as in collaboration with researchers from partner organizations. Travel will be required and consists of driving to agricultural fields and small plot research sites to collect samples, primarily on day-trips, but occasionally overnight trips will be required. The position will require physical activity and ability to be on foot for extended periods, walking 2-5 km distances, and lifting up to 50 lbs. Fieldwork will be intensified after crop harvest and then will shift to primarily indoors and on campus for sample processing.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

• Assisting with fieldwork including soil and plant sample collection in agricultural fields and small plot research trials
• Assisting with sample processing and basic laboratory analyses
• Maintaining a clean and safe laboratory and fieldwork environment

Education: Diploma or undergraduate degree in progress or completed in natural resource management, agronomy, horticulture, soil science, crop science, environmental science or related discipline.
Licenses: Valid class 5 driver’s license and good driving record.
Experience: Fieldwork experience is considered an asset. Experience working as part of a team is considered an asset.
Skills: Interest in agriculture and environmental science; Willingness to work outdoors with periodic overnight trips; Strong communication skills and willingness to work as part of a collaborative team; ATV safety certification considered an asset.

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Melissa Arcand at [e-mail].

Department: Soil Science
Status: Term 3 months with the possibility of extension
Employment Group: Research Positions - Non-union
Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 0.6
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $32,104.80 - 51,376.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Phase/Band: Salary Band 3
Posted Date: 8/12/2026
Closing Date: 8/25/2026 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action. We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us for assistance.