Research Professional-Nankar

University of Georgia; Tifton (GA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent higher education institution in Tifton, Georgia, is seeking a Research Professional to oversee vegetable breeding research. This role involves managing field and greenhouse operations, planning and conducting experiments, and maintaining records. Candidates should have a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or Horticulture, and experience in field production. A strong understanding of farming practices, ability to operate heavy machinery, and compliance with research policies are essential. The position offers a full-time schedule with a competitive salary based on experience.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience in field production, working with vegetables.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and work in various weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Oversee field preparation and crop production for vegetable breeding trials.
• Implement crop care practices including fertilization and pest management.
• Monitor greenhouse conditions and manage crop growth.
• supervise field prep, harvests, and equipment maintenance.

Skills

Experience in field production, handling, maintenance

Experience in operating heavy equipment such as tractors

Basic understanding of vegetable production

Able to obtain pesticide applicator licenses

Policy compliance

Education

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or Horticulture

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or Horticulture

Job description

Overview

Research Professional-Nankar. Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. To apply for the position, please click the Apply for this Job link/button. If you would like to bookmark this position for later review, click on the Bookmark link. If you would like to print a copy of this position for your records, click on the Print Preview link.

Posting Details

Posting Details
Posting Number S14590P
Working Title Research Professional-Nankar
Department CAES-Horticulture
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. 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.

College/Unit/Department: College/Unit/Department website
Posting Type: External
Retirement Plan: TRS
Employment Type: Employee Benefits Eligible
Full/Part time: Full Time
Work Schedule: Additional Schedule Information: Schedule to be determined by supervisor.
Advertised Salary: Commensurate with Experience
Posting Date: 01/14/2026
Open until filled: Yes
Closing Date:
Proposed Starting Date: 02/01/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants: Please include a list of at least 3 references and their contact information.
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 ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement: Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. Details available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct. USG also supports Freedom of Expression per Board Policy 6.5; details at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Position Information: Classification Title Research Tech-Life Science I; FLSA Non-Exempt; FTE 1.00

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or Horticulture
• Prior experience in field production, equipment and working with vegetables (specifically, peppers, onions, tomatoes and snapbeans)

Position Summary: This position will have significant responsibility and involvement in the design, management, and interpretation of field research trials within the Department of Horticulture’s Vegetable Breeding Program. The successful candidate will oversee vegetable breeding field and greenhouse research. Responsibilities include independently planning, supervising, and conducting experiments, maintaining detailed crop management records, collecting and analyzing data.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Experience in field production, handling, maintenance.
• Experience in operating heavy equipment such as tractors.
• Basic understanding of vegetable production, field and greenhouse operations.
• Able to obtain pesticide applicator licenses.
• Able to comply with UGA Research policies as instructed.

Physical Demands:

• Lift 50 pounds
• Work in hot and humid field conditions during summer months and cold field conditions during winter months
• Stand for long periods of time
• Driving as needed to perform job tasks

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? Yes

Does this position require a P-Card? Yes

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

Background and Credit Policy: Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation and, if applicable, a credit check. Visit the UGA Background Check website for details.

Duties/Responsibilities

Field Operations and Crop Management
This includes overseeing all aspects of field preparation and crop production for vegetable breeding trials. Responsibilities include:

• Field Preparation: Coordinating land preparation activities such as tillage, bed formation, irrigation setup, and soil amendments to ensure optimal conditions for planting.
• Crop Management: Implementing and monitoring crop care practices including planting, fertilization, irrigation scheduling, pest and disease management, and overall crop health maintenance throughout the growing season.
• Harvest Operations: Planning and supervising harvest activities to ensure accurate timing and proper handling of crops for research integrity.
• Data Collection: Recording detailed observations and measurements on plant growth, yield, quality traits, and other relevant parameters; ensuring data accuracy and completeness for research analysis.

Greenhouse Management
Responsible for all greenhouse operations supporting vegetable breeding research. Duties include:

• Environmental Control: Monitoring and adjusting temperature, humidity, light, and irrigation systems to maintain optimal growing conditions for diverse vegetable crops.
• Crop Production: Planning and executing greenhouse planting schedules, transplanting seedlings, and managing crop growth stages to ensure healthy plants for breeding trials.
• Pest and Disease Management: Implementing integrated pest management strategies and maintaining sanitation protocols to prevent infestations and diseases.
• Pollination and Breeding Activities: Coordinating controlled pollinations, seed collection, and other breeding tasks essential for research objectives.
• Record Keeping and Data Collection: Maintaining detailed logs of greenhouse activities, crop performance, and environmental conditions; collecting data for research analysis.
• Equipment and Safety Oversight: Ensuring proper maintenance of greenhouse equipment and adherence to safety standards.

Field Equipment Maintenance, Inventory Management, and Resource Planning
This responsibility encompasses ensuring operational efficiency and resource availability for vegetable breeding research. Duties include:

• Field Equipment Maintenance: Performing routine inspections, troubleshooting, and coordinating repairs for tractors, planters, irrigation systems, and other specialized research equipment to ensure reliability and safety.
• Inventory Management: Tracking and organizing supplies such as seeds, fertilizers, chemicals, and tools; maintaining accurate inventory records to prevent shortages or overstocking.
• Data Entry and Documentation: Recording equipment usage, maintenance logs, and inventory updates in digital systems for accountability and reporting purposes.
• Resource Forecasting: Anticipating seasonal and project-specific needs for materials, labor, and equipment; developing procurement plans to support research timelines.
• Purchasing Coordination: Initiating and managing purchase requests for supplies and equipment, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and budget constraints.

Other duties as assigned.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact: Amol Nankar
Recruitment Contact Email: [e-mail]

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*)

Applicant Documents

Required Documents: Resume/CV; Cover Letter; List of References with Contact Information. Optional Documents: Other Documents #1