Experimental Smart Farm Junior Specialist

University of California - Merced; Merced (CA); On-site; USD 51,300 - 62,700; Full time

Job summary

The University of California - Merced is seeking a Farm Specialist (Experimental Smart Farm Specialist) to manage agricultural technologies and fieldwork operations. Responsibilities include operating machinery, data analysis, and engaging in community outreach.

Basic qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and strong problem-solving skills. Candidates should also have experience in agricultural research and familiarity with modern farming technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Agriculture, Computer Science, or related field.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated excellence in communication.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency with digital tools like Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Ability to work outdoors in difficult conditions.
• Training in safe tractor and drone operations.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Execute fieldwork activities like planting and irrigation.
• Analyze data from smart farming technologies.
• Support outreach and engagement efforts.
• Communicate research findings effectively.
• Adhere to safety, compliance, and ethical standards.

Skills

Strong organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Excellent communication

Proficiency with digital tools

Ability to work in difficult conditions

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Position Overview

Position title: Farm Specialist (Experimental Smart Farm Specialist).
Location: Merced, CA.
Salary range: See table 24B for the salary range for this position; a reasonable estimate is $57,000.
Percent time: 100%
Anticipated start: June/July 2026.
Position duration: 1 year renewable.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a variety of agricultural machinery and farm equipment including tractors, skid steers, front‑end loaders, forklifts, and other mechanized implements.
• Execute fieldwork activities such as planting, irrigation management, composting, harvesting, and site preparation; conduct routine inspections, perform minor repairs, and ensure operational readiness of farm equipment and infrastructure.
• Collect, manage, and analyze data generated by smart farming technologies; monitor sensor‑based systems, support precision agriculture applications, and assist with geospatial data analysis (GIS and/or remote sensing).
• Perform laboratory and computational duties including data systems administration, field data processing and quality control, and maintaining organized research datasets.
• Support outreach and engagement efforts: facilitate farm tours, develop educational signage and materials, collaborate with faculty, researchers, students, and community partners for events and programming, and represent the farm professionally to diverse audiences.
• Communicate research activities and findings through written reports, summaries, and oral presentations; collaborate closely with faculty, research staff, and external partners.
• Maintain strict adherence to safety, compliance, and ethical research standards; work non‑standard hours as required, including extended days, occasional weekends, and travel for field operations and outreach.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a driving record that meets university standards.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Agriculture, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent research experience.
• Strong organizational and problem‑solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Demonstrated excellence in written, verbal, and visual communication.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with team members.
• Proficiency with digital tools, including Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Ability to work and exercise sound judgement in outdoor work environments under difficult conditions (heat and cold).
• Successful training in safe tractor and drone operations.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience conducting or participating in applied agricultural research, preferably in a smart farm environment.
• Experience in a farming environment, including safe operation of machinery.
• Experience with farming technologies such as drones, sensors, and automation systems for data collection and analysis.
• Knowledge of modern sustainable or regenerative agricultural practices.
• Experience in fieldwork activities such as soil sampling, plant pathology, crop science, or animal agriculture.
• Familiarity with geospatial, IoT, AI technologies used in precision agriculture, and applied statistics.
• Knowledge of programming languages such as Python or R.

Application Requirements

• Curriculum Vitae – most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter – optional
• Authorization to Release Information Form – required for all applicants. This form authorizes disclosure of any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years that indicate misconduct. Required Authorization of Information Release Form must be completed, signed, and uploaded to the application.
• Reference requirements – 3 references (contact information only).

Apply and Contact

• Apply link: https://aprecruit.ucmerced.edu/JPF02187
• Help contact: [e-mail]

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of California, Merced is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected status under state or federal law.