Research Technician

University of Wisconsin-Madison; Verona (WI); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Wisconsin–Madison, through the Corn Breeding and Genetics Program in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, seeks two Field Research Technicians to support corn breeding research at the West Madison Agricultural Research Station. These temporary positions require hands-on fieldwork, data collection, and careful sample processing.

Appointments begin mid-to-late September 2026 and run through about December 15, 2026, with potential extension.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred in plant sciences, agronomy, or closely related field.
• Proven ability to prepare and maintain records with accuracy.
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a diverse research team.
• Employee must have a valid driver's license and become an approved driver through UW-Madison's driver authorization process.

Responsibilities

• May assist with literature reviews and/or report writing
• Performs lab and/or field test materials and samples according to established research requirements and specifications. Performs lab or field tests
• Reviews data to summarize results for presentations or reporting
• Collects data and monitors test results according to established research requirements and specifications
• Inspects and maintains equipment, supplies, inventory, and facility spaces

Skills

Recordkeeping

Procedures adherence

Team collaboration

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred in plant sciences / agronomy

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

Temporary (Fixed Term)

Job Profile

Research Technician

Job Summary

The Corn Breeding and Genetics Program within the Department of Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is seeking two motivated and detail-oriented Field Research Technicians to support critical corn breeding research activities at the West Madison Agricultural Research Station. These temporary positions will play an important role in advancing research efforts through corn hand harvesting, phenotyping, and seed and sample processing activities. These appointments are expected to begin in mid-to-late September 2026 and continue through approximately December 15, 2026, with flexibility in both start and end dates. While they are temporary positions, there may be an opportunity for extension based on program needs. Please note that appointments are limited to a maximum of 1,040 hours within a 12-month period. Interested candidates will be needed for up to 40 hours per week with the opportunity for somewhat flexible scheduling. The ideal candidate is highly organized, dependable, and capable of managing multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced research environment. Strong time management, prioritization, and accurate recordkeeping skills are essential. Experience working outdoors, particularly in agricultural, research, or field-based settings, is preferred. Candidates must be able to perform the physical requirements of agricultural fieldwork, including prolonged walking and standing on uneven terrain, and lifting, carrying, and moving materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Successful candidates will demonstrate effective communication and problem-solving abilities, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a diverse research team. A willingness to learn and contribute to high-quality research outcomes is highly valued.

Key Job Responsibilities

• May assist with literature reviews and/or report writing
• Performs lab and/or field test materials and samples according to established research requirements and specifications. Performs lab or field tests
• Reviews data to summarize results for presentations or reporting
• Collects data and monitors test results according to established research requirements and specifications
• Inspects and maintains equipment, supplies, inventory, and facility spaces

Department

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Plant and Agroecosystem Sciences, De Leon Gatti Research Program

Compensation

The rate of pay for this position is $20.00 per hour.

Required Qualifications

• Proven ability to prepare and maintain records with accuracy
• Demonstrated track record of following established procedures or protocols
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a diverse research team
• Employee must have a valid driver's license and become an approved driver through UW-Madison's driver authorization process. This requires meeting established driver authorization criteria listed at https://businessservices.wisc.edu/managing-risk/driver-authorization-and-insurance/driver-authorization/

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting plant-related research
• Experience conducting field work in adverse weather conditions

Education

• Bachelor's degree preferred in plant sciences, agronomy, or closely related field

References

Finalists will be asked to provide contact information (phone and email) for three references.