Field Technician

University of Wisconsin-Madison; Verona (WI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vacation days

Paid time off

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Job summary

The University of Wisconsin–Madison, West Madison Agricultural Research Station, seeks a full-time Agricultural Laborer to support plant cultivation and seed production in field and greenhouse settings.

The role involves planting, pollinations, crop maintenance, harvesting, seed processing, and operating equipment such as plot threshers and shellers. Candidates must work outdoors and follow research protocols.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated track record of following established procedures, protocols, or work instructions.
• Experience working independently and as part of a team to accomplish shared goals.
• Experience performing physically demanding work involving prolonged standing, walking, repetitive tasks, and/or lifting materials.

Responsibilities

• May operate farm equipment
• Plants, cultivates, and harvests vegetables, fruits, nuts, horticultural specialties, and field crops
• May participate in irrigation activities
• Cleans, grades, sorts, packs, and loads harvested products and seed
• Maintains and evaluates hardscapes

Skills

Procedural following

Teamwork

Physically demanding work

Education

HS diploma

Tools

Tools & machinery

Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.

Job Category: University Staff

Employment Type: Regular

Job Profile: Agricultural Laborer

Job Summary: The West Madison Agricultural Research Station is seeking a motivated and dependable individual for a full-time, ongoing position anticipated to begin on November 1st. This role is responsible for supporting all aspects of plant cultivation and seed production in both field and greenhouse environments. Key responsibilities include planting, pollinations, crop maintenance, harvesting, seed processing, and operating equipment such as plot or individual plant-level threshers and shellers. Major crops handled by the incumbent will include, but are not limited to, corn, sorghum, and wheat. The successful candidate will serve as an integral member of the research team, supporting the work of faculty, students, and postdoctoral researchers on a variety of agricultural research projects. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands‑on agricultural work and is comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. The role requires the ability to follow established research protocols and procedures while working independently and collaboratively within a diverse research environment. Work is conducted in agricultural research fields and greenhouses and requires regular exposure to crop pollen, dust, seed‑processing operations, plant materials, and other environmental conditions associated with field research. Individuals should be comfortable working outdoors in varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions. Candidates must be able to perform the physical demands of agricultural fieldwork, including prolonged walking and standing on uneven terrain, lifting and carrying seed and research materials weighing up to 50 pounds, and working in inclement weather. Some weekend work will be required during peak pollination periods in July and August. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong communication skills, a solid work ethic, and a commitment to supporting high‑quality research operations. A valid driver's license is required, and the selected candidate must become an approved driver through UW‑Madison's Driver Authorization Process.

Additional Information:

• A criminal background check may be required
• A six-month probationary period may be required
• A valid driver's license is required. Employees must become an approved driver through UW‑Madison's driver authorization process, which requires meeting established criteria. Information about UW‑Madison Driver Authorization can be found at https://businessservices.wisc.edu/managing-risk/driver-authorization-and-insurance/driver-authorization/ .

Key Job Responsibilities

• May operate farm equipment
• Plants, cultivates, and harvests vegetables, fruits, nuts, horticultural specialties, and field crops
• May participate in irrigation activities
• Cleans, grades, sorts, packs, and loads harvested products and seed
• Maintains and evaluates hardscapes

Department: College of Agricultural and Life Sciences | Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences | Khangura Research Program.

The Khangura Research Program focuses on genetic and molecular understanding of agronomically relevant traits in cereal crops, especially maize, sorghum, and wheat. Current research interests in the lab include projects aimed at enhancing molecular understanding of variants influencing plant architecture, development, immunity, and their interactions. The lab uses Mendelian genetics, population genetics, molecular biology, and omics tools to explore a range of plant phenotypes.

Compensation: The anticipated hourly rate for this position is $18-$22. However, final salary will depend on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. Additional benefits information can be found at: https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/fasl.pdf .

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated track record of following established procedures, protocols, or work instructions
• Experience working independently and as part of a team to accomplish shared goals
• Experience performing physically demanding work involving prolonged standing, walking, repetitive tasks, and/or lifting materials

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing field work with corn, maize, sorghum, and/or wheat crops
• Mechanical aptitude demonstrated through experience working with tools, machinery, or mechanical equipment

Education: HS diploma preferred