Agronomy Technician

Colorado State University; Fort Collins, Northern (CO, KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University seeks an Agronomy Field Technician to support crop management for research and production, including irrigation and pest control across test plots and fields. The role involves operating diverse machinery, performing field tasks, and coordinating maintenance with supervisors.

The position requires experience with irrigated systems, strong communication skills, and the ability to work flexible hours, including nights or weekends as needed.

Qualifications

• Highschool diploma or GED required.
• Two years in a crops production or related commercial environment.
• Experience with irrigated agricultural systems and heavy machinery operation.

Responsibilities

• Assist with crop establishment through field prep, tillage, planting and harvest.
• Manage pest controls in test plots and bulk fields using chemical applications.
• Perform irrigation using furrow, linear and center pivot systems.
• Operate and maintain field machinery and equipment; coordinate routine maintenance.

Skills

Field crops management

Irrigation management

Equipment operation

Communication skills

Flexibility

Safety awareness

Education

Highschool or GED

B.A./B.S. in agronomy or related field

Tools

Trimble

Greenstar

Precision ag technology

Job description

Position Summary

The agronomy field technician works with the Director/Manager and other ARDEC employees in a team environment supporting crop management for research, production scale farming and irrigation management. Position is also responsible for equipment and infrastructure upkeep and maintenance. Full Consideration Date: Monday, 9/14/2026, 11:59pm (MT).

Essential Job Duties

Field Crops Management for Research and Production Assist with crop establishment through field preparation, tillage, planting, and harvest; pest management of test plots and bulk fields with chemical applications including weed, insect, and disease pest controls; conduct timely irrigation using furrow, linear and center pivot irrigation systems Equipment Operation and Maintenance; Conduct field and farm operations using large- and small-scale machinery, equipment and vehicles; coordinate routine equipment maintenance. Communicate complicated maintenance needs of equipment and vehicles to supervisors and mechanics. Facility Maintenance; carryout facility maintenance and cleaning tasks in and around buildings and facilities at ARDEC and ARDEC South.; mow, trim and maintain, ditch infrastructure, waterways, fence lines and other Right-of -Way areas around fields; maintain water delivery systems and pipelines, assist with repairs as needed. Communications and Outreach; attend conferences and meetings within the CAS & AES system; participate in providing field tours for visitors. Other related duties as assigned.

Conditions of Employment

Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for any new hires). Valid driver's license by employment start date. Authorized to work in US by employment start date.

Supervision

Supervise seasonal hourly employees, both students and non-student hourly employees.

Minimum Qualifications

Highschool or GED. Two years in a crops production or related commercial enterprise environment. Experience in irrigated agricultural systems including operation and maintenance. Experience in safe and proficient operation of farm and other heavy machinery such as tractors, harvesters, loaders, forklifts, and farm trucks. Demonstrated communication skills and ability to understand both verbal and written instructions. Ability to meet the physical demands of this position, which include some heavy lifting (up to 100 lbs.) and will require manual dexterity, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching and handling. Ability to work in environmental conditions to include exposure to weather and noise. Hazards include working in proximity to moving, mechanical parts and exposure to chemicals used in weed/pest control and fertilization. Ability to accommodate Flexible Work Arrangements (FWA) and to meet seasonal demands as well as varied work hours extending to nights and/or weekends.

Preferred Qualifications

B.A. /B.S. degree in agronomy or closely related field. Experience operating equipment with Trimble, Greenstar and/or other precision ag operation technology. Field plot research experience and data collection. Colorado Certified Pesticide Applicator License, or ability to obtain within 6 months (180 days) of hire. Valid Colorado Class A commercial driver's license or ability to obtain within 6 months (180 days) of hire.

Salary Range

$55K-$65K

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact. Review our detailed benefits information here. Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here. For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world. Prospective Employees, click here to learn more about CSU's perks and purpose. Current employees will need to apply for jobs in Workday.