Research Technician

North Carolina State University; Mills River (NC); On-site; USD 34,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision

Retirement Programs

Disability Plans

Life Insurance

Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs

12 Holidays Each Year

Tuition and Academic Assistance

Childcare benefits

Job summary

North Carolina State University in Mills River, NC invites applications for the Research Technician position within the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research program. The role provides operational support for field-based agricultural research, including fieldwork, tractor operation, pesticide application, and crop care for apples, tomatoes, ornamentals, corn, and soybeans.

The applicant will work under the supervision of research scientists, may supervise temporary staff, and must have a valid

Qualifications

• Background in agricultural work and/or applied research.
• Knowledge of agricultural crop production practices.
• Proficiency in operating agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Attention to detail and commitment to safe work practices.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field work activities in support of ongoing agricultural research projects.
• Operate tractors and other farm equipment safely and efficiently.
• Apply pesticides according to established protocols and safety guidelines.
• Provide cultural care for various crops including apples, tomatoes, ornamentals, corn, and soybeans.
• Assist in the coordination and execution of research experiments and trials.
• Maintain accurate records of field activities, observations, and data collection.
• Collaborate with research scientists and other team members to achieve project objectives.
• May be responsible for directing the work of temporary employees, providing guidance and support as needed.

Skills

Agricultural work

Applied research

Crop production practices

Machinery operation

Attention to detail

Safety practices

Job description

Job Posting Information

Posting Number: PG195211SP

Internal Recruitment: No

Working Title: Research Technician

Anticipated Hiring Range: Commensurate with Experience ($42,702)

Work Schedule: M-F 7:30 am - 4 pm. Weekend and other hours as required.

Job Location: Mills River, NC

Department: Mountain Horticultural Crops Research

About the Department

Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center supports agricultural research on horticultural and other crops relevant to western NC and the state of North Carolina. The Center provides resources such as land, equipment, facilities, expertise, and personnel to research scientists conducting field research on agricultural commodities. The 397-acre Center houses twelve administrative and operational staff, as well as research faculty from six academic departments and Administrative offices for two Cooperative Extension district offices. The Center is also a hub in western NC for Extension education programs.

Wolfpack Perks and Benefits

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Essential Job Duties

The Research Technician position will provide operational support for agricultural research projects. Primary crops include apples, tomatoes, ornamentals, corn, and soybeans. This position will provide knowledge and skills to support existing research programs through fieldwork, tractor and other farm equipment operation, pesticide application, and cultural crop care. The position is task-oriented with a heavy focus on equipment operation and fieldwork. May direct the work of temporary employees.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct field work activities in support of ongoing agricultural research projects.
• Operate tractors and other farm equipment safely and efficiently.
• Apply pesticides according to established protocols and safety guidelines.
• Provide cultural care for various crops including apples, tomatoes, ornamentals, corn, and soybeans.
• Assist in the coordination and execution of research experiments and trials.
• Maintain accurate records of field activities, observations, and data collection.
• Collaborate with research scientists and other team members to achieve project objectives.
• May be responsible for directing the work of temporary employees, providing guidance and support as needed.

Other Responsibilities

In addition to the core responsibilities of this role, there may be occasional opportunities to take on additional duties. This offers an opportunity to build on your skills, explore new areas, and gain a deeper understanding of the department's operations.

Qualifications

Minimum Experience/Education: Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Background in agricultural work and/or applied research.
• Knowledge of agricultural crop production practices.
• Proficiency in operating agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Attention to detail and commitment to safe work practices.

Required License or Certification

• A valid driver's license is required for travel. NC driver's license is required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained.
• NC Pesticide Applicator's License or the ability to obtain one within 6 months of start.

Valid NC Driver's License required: Yes

Commercial Driver's License Required?: No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date: 09/18/2026

Earliest Close Date: 09/24/2026

Notice to Applicants: Please note that the work history on your resume, must also be included in your application.

Position Details

Position Number: 00042412

Position Type: SHRA

Position Classification Band Title: Research Technician

Position Classification Band Level: Journey

Position Classification Salary Range: $ 34,320 - $ 72,734

Salary Grade Equivalency: MH06

Alternate Option: If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week): 1.0

Appointment: 12 Month Recurring

Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather: Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather

Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events: Non Mandatory - Emergency Event

Time Limited Position: No

Department Id: 115004 - Mountain Horticultural Crops Research

EEO

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at [phone] or [e-mail].

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.