Crop Sciences Technician: Field & Lab Operations

The California State University; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 58,512 - 80,328; Full time

Job summary

The California State University is seeking a skilled supervisor for the Plant Sciences Crops Unit at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. You will oversee row crop production, irrigation and fertilization, and pest management while supporting instructional labs and faculty research.

You will train student staff, manage equipment and safety protocols, and coordinate day-to-day operations with attention to regulatory compliance and record-keeping.

Qualifications

• Three years of progressively responsible experience in field, garden, vegetable, or specialty crops (incl. orchards, vineyards, etc.).
• Equivalent to 60 semester or 90 quarter units of college work with agriculture/ science courses related to crop production.

Responsibilities

• Oversee sustainable row crop production and related facilities and equipment.
• Manage irrigation and fertilization programs and pest management activities.
• Support instructional laboratories and research projects; assist faculty in lab set-up and training.
• Schedule operations for safe, timely access by faculty and students.
• Provide supplies, manage inventory, and train Crops Unit student personnel.
• Ensure compliance with safety, fertilizer, and pesticide regulations.

Skills

Tillage equipment

Farm machinery maintenance

Plan and supervise

Pesticide regulations

Pesticide calibration

Crop pest monitoring

Safety awareness

Read plans and manuals

Education

3 years crop production experience

60 semester/90 quarter units

Tools

Irrigation systems

Fertilizer application equipment

Off-road vehicles & equipment

Job description

The California State University is seeking a skilled supervisor for the Plant Sciences Crops Unit at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. You will oversee row crop production, irrigation and fertilization, and pest management while supporting instructional labs and faculty research.

You will train student staff, manage equipment and safety protocols, and coordinate day-to-day operations with attention to regulatory compliance and record-keeping.