Agricultural Technician

University of Maryland Eastern Shore; United States; On-site; USD 44,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore is seeking a full-time, nonexempt staff member to support agricultural operations at the Agricultural Experiment Station. The role encompasses farm operation assistance, field research support, and equipment maintenance, with a strong emphasis on safety and reliability.

Minimum qualifications include a High School Diploma or GED and three years of agricultural work, including one year in research. A Commercial CDL Class B license is required.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Three years in agricultural work with one year in agricultural research.
• Must have a Commercial CDL Class B Driver’s License.

Responsibilities

• Assist daily operation of UMES farms.
• Assist researchers with field research in plant and soil science.
• Assist with farm operations including planting, cultivating, spraying, harvesting.
• Repair equipment as needed to keep farm operations and research on track.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Three years in agricultural work with one year in agricultural research

Job description

Job Description Summary

Organization’s Summary Statement
The Agricultural Experiment Station under the Department of Agriculture at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore invites applications for full-time, nonexempt, positions with benefits.

Salary Range: $44,000 - $58,000

Benefits: The University of Maryland Eastern Shore, as a University System of Maryland institution and a Maryland State agency, provides a comprehensive benefits package to all regular faculty and staff. The Office of Employee Benefits provides consultative services and assistance with benefits planning, enrollment, and changes. Eligible employees may participate in a variety of benefit plans including:

• Health insurance, including multiple medical plan options for employees and dependents offered through the State of Maryland Employee Benefits Division.
• Prescription drug, dental, and flexible spending accounts, and vision coverage.
• Retirement plans: mandatory enrollment in a state pension system or an Optional Retirement Plan with Fidelity or TIAA, Supplemental Retirement Accounts (TIAA, Fidelity, or MSRP-Nationwide) with $600 annual state match, Life Insurance (state sponsored MetLife, USM sponsored MetLife Plan, life insurance and long-term disability insurance).
• Tuition remission benefits for eligible employees and, subject to USM policies, spouses and dependents at University System of Maryland institutions.
• Non-exempt positions start at 11 days annual per year, sick leave 15 days per year, personal leave 3 days per year). Overtime, shift-differential and on-call pay and paid holidays.
• Employee wellness and support resources and access to the State of Maryland wellness programs.

Responsibilities:
Under the direction of the Farm Manager, the successful applicant performs moderately complex biological or agricultural tests, examinations and processes to include:

• Providing assistance to the daily operation of the UMES farms.
• Assisting researchers with field research being conducted in plant and soil science at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore ‘s Agricultural Experiment Station.
• Assisting with all farm operations including field preparation, planting, cultivating, spraying, harvesting, and supporting multiple research projects.
• Repairing equipment as needed so that farm operations and research continues successfully.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Preferences: (Qualifications):

• A.S. or A.A. degree State of Maryland Pesticide Public Agency Applicator Certificate, Nutrient Management Applicator Voucher, or ability to obtain both within six (6) months.
• Ability to collect and process samples.
• Ability use and troubleshoot farm equipment.
• Must be willing to acquire skills through training.
• Must have a strong commitment to research and be a self-starter.
• Ability to lift and transport agricultural supplies, tools, and equipment.
• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse workplace.
• Must have the capacity to balance multiple projects at a time.

Physical Demands:

• May be required to perform physical work requiring bending, stooping, reaching, carrying, and frequent heavy lifting up to 50 lbs.
• May be required to work in adverse weather conditions.
• May be required to wear and work in personal protective equipment.
• May be required to operate a variety of equipment to include office equipment.

Licenses/ Certifications:

• Must have a Commercial CDL Class B Driver’s License.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED AND Three years in agricultural work, one year of which was in agricultural research.

Additional Job Details

Best Consideration Date: N/A

Posting Close Date: N/A

Open Until Filled: Yes

Department

UMES-AGNS-AGRICULTURE/OPERATION

Worker Sub-Type

Staff Regular

Salary Range

$44,000 - $58,000

EEO Statement

UMESis an EEO/AA employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or political affiliation. Minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate must be able to show acceptable documentation establishing the right to accept employment in the United States of America without employer sponsorship.

Diversity Statement

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is an equal access, equal opportunityinstitution fully committed to diversity in education and employment. All students, employees, and the campus community at UMES are valued, respected, and have the opportunity to receive an equitable experience in an inclusive, welcoming environment of openness and appreciation.

Title IX Statement

It is the policy of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) to comply with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination (including sexual harassment and sexual violence) based on sex in the University’s educational programs and activities. Title IX also prohibits retaliationfor asserting or otherwise participating in claims of sex discriminations or harassment.