Cotton Research Technician- Tifton Campus

University of Georgia

Athens (GA)

On-site

USD 40,000 - 60,000

Full time

2 days ago

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Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Cotton Research Technician at the Tifton Campus to support all aspects of cotton production research. The role includes assisting with breeding, germplasm development, cultivar evaluation, and agronomic programs, plus field, greenhouse, and laboratory activities.

You will work with researchers, graduate students, technicians, and student workers to achieve program objectives, maintain records, and ensure safety protocols.

Qualifications

Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in writing and speaking.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Access).
Experience calibrating agricultural sprayers and fertilizer applicators.
Ability to manage crop production activities and field data collection.
Appreciation for accuracy in agricultural research and record-keeping.

Responsibilities

Support field, greenhouse, and laboratory research activities for the cotton breeding program.
Coordinate planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest management, harvesting, and seed processing.
Collect, record, and maintain research data and observations from field and greenhouse work.
Travel to off-site locations to support planting, maintenance, and harvesting as needed.

Skills

Communication skills

MS Office

Sprayer calibration

Crop management

Mechanics basics

Precision agriculture understanding

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Posting Details

Posting Number S15617P Working Title Cotton Research Technician- Tifton Campus Department CAES-Tifton Campus

About the University of Georgia

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department

College/Unit/Department website Posting Type External Retirement Plan TRS Employment Type Employee Benefits Eligibility Benefits Eligible Full/Part time Full Time Work Schedule Additional Schedule Information Schedule will be set by the supervisor and may vary during planting/harvesting season.

Advertised Salary

Commensurate with Experience

Posting Dates

Posting Date 10/28/2026 Open until filled Yes Closing Date Proposed Starting Date 11/22/2026

Location of Vacancy

Tifton Area

EEO Policy Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR hrweb@uga.edu.

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Position Information

Classification Title Research Tech-Life Science II FLSA Non-Exempt FTE 1.00 Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Position Summary

The Research Technician position will be under the Assistant Dean’s Office based at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus. At appointment, the person in this position will assist with research that focuses on all aspects of cotton production and improvement. The primary focus of current research projects is to support cotton breeding, germplasm development, cultivar evaluation, and agronomic programs and initiatives. This position will also provide assistance, as needed, to other research areas related to cotton improvement and production. This role will involve collaborating with and assisting researchers, graduate students, technicians, and student workers to achieve program objectives and support ongoing research activities. General responsibilities include supporting field, greenhouse, and laboratory research activities for the cotton breeding program through the establishment, management, and evaluation of research trials. Duties include coordinating crop production activities such as planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest management, harvesting, and seed processing; collecting and managing research data; operating and maintaining research equipment and vehicles; coordinating with farm personnel and research staff; and assisting with the implementation of breeding, genetics, and germplasm evaluation projects. The position also involves maintaining accurate records, supporting inventory and land management activities, and ensuring compliance with applicable safety and operational procedures while contributing to the overall success of the cotton research program.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies

Good written and verbal communication skills.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office software.
Competency in calibrating sprayers, fertilizer applicators, and related math skills.
Competency in crop management.
Basic mechanical, welding and carpentry skills.
Understanding and appreciation of the precision necessary for agricultural research.
Ability to maintain research and farm implements for optimum operation.

Physical Demands

Lift 50 lb items repeatedly in the heat.
Operate farm equipment.
Bend over, walk, climb, repeatedly for long hours.
Work outside in dusty, hot, humid conditions all day.
Driving as needed to perform job duties.

Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) Yes

Credit and P-Card policy

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Percentage of time 40

Prepare and maintain research plots.
Support routine crop management activities, including irrigation, fertilization, weed control, and other practices necessary to maintain research trials.
Collect, record, and maintain research data and observations from field and greenhouse activities.
Travel to support planting, maintenance, and harvesting activities at off-site research locations as needed.

Percentage of time 35

Manage the collection, processing, evaluation, storage, and distribution of plant, seed, and other research materials.
Collect samples and data from research trials and maintain accurate records to support program objectives.
Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory, field, and specialized agricultural equipment.
Ensure compliance with all applicable safety procedures, quality standards, and research protocols while conducting laboratory and field activities.

Percentage of time 20

Perform routine preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on research, field, and laboratory equipment.
Monitor equipment performance and identify maintenance needs to minimize downtime and support efficient research operations.
Maintain facilities, equipment, and work areas in a safe and organized condition.

Percentage of time 5