Field & Data Scientist — Precision Agriculture

Montana State University; Havre (MT); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Montana State University’s Northern Agricultural Research Center in Havre seeks a Precision Agriculture Research Associate to lead daily lab operations, supervise field trials, and manage data analytics workflows.

The role focuses on optimizing crop inputs, site-specific weed and pest management, satellite remote sensing, and spatial variability across dryland cropping systems in Montana. Strong background in statistics required.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Precision Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, Data Science, Spatial Sciences, or a closely related field, or a Bachelor’s degree in one of these fields plus at least three years of relevant professional experience in precision agriculture, agronomy, or agricultural data analysis.
• Familiarity with remote sensing technologies and satellite imagery analysis.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis using software such as R or Python.
• Effective communication skills (written and oral) with researchers, educators, researchers center personnel, and producers.

Responsibilities

• Lab & Field Management: Oversee daily lab operations, field equipment, sensor inventory, and field schedules; train and supervise technicians and students.
• Experimental Design & Trial Execution: Plan, layout, and implement small-plot and on-farm trials.
• Data Management & Analytics: Manage spatial and tabular field datasets; perform statistical analyses in R or Python.
• Targeted Spray & Precision Equipment Operations: Support field operations with smart spray systems and precision applicators.
• Develop and implement research studies to enhance precision agriculture practices in Montana.
• Interact with farmers and ranchers on on-farm experiments to test techniques.
• Disseminate findings through extension activities, field days, and publications.

Skills

Remote sensing familiarity

Statistics with R/Python

Communication skills

Education

Master’s degree in Precision Agriculture or related field

Tools

Pix4D

UAV / Drone operation

RTK-GNSS

Job description

Montana State University’s Northern Agricultural Research Center in Havre seeks a Precision Agriculture Research Associate to lead daily lab operations, supervise field trials, and manage data analytics workflows.

The role focuses on optimizing crop inputs, site-specific weed and pest management, satellite remote sensing, and spatial variability across dryland cropping systems in Montana. Strong background in statistics required.