Research Technician-Horticulture, Tifton (Rubio-Ames)

University of Georgia; Cypress (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative institution is seeking a dedicated technician to work on field-based experiments studying temperature and fruit development. This role involves collecting and analyzing data using advanced technology, assisting with treatment applications, and collaborating with offsite growers. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful research in agriculture while working in diverse environments. If you have a passion for agriculture and research, this role is perfect for you, providing a chance to make a significant difference in the field.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in Agriculture preferred.
• Technical knowledge in agriculture or related fields required.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute small research trials including planting and harvest.
• Data collection and entry using Excel for research projects.

Skills

Farming Experience

Research Experience

Extension Experience

Greenhouse Experience

MS Office

Education

Associate's degree in Agriculture

Technical knowledge through apprenticeship or certificate

Tools

Excel

Statistical software

Job description

External Retirement Plan TRS Employment Type Employee Benefits Eligibility Benefits Eligible Full/Part time Full Time Work Schedule Additional Schedule Information
40 hours per week with daily/weekly schedule to be determined by supervisor
Advertised Salary Commensurate with education, experience and training Posting Date 02/28/2025 Open until filled Yes Closing Date Proposed Starting Date 03/31/2025 Special Instructions to Applicants 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
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Position Information

Classification Title Agriculture/Forestry Technical/Paraprofessional/Professional FLSA Non-Exempt FTE 1.00 Minimum Qualifications
Requires technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2-year degree, or professional certificate. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.
Preferred Qualifications
Associate's degree in Agriculture
Knowledge of satellite imagery and GIS
Position Summary
Technician will be working on field based experiments studying temperature and fruit development. They will collect data using a thermo camera and will collect, enter, and analyze data using images and temperature sensors. In addition, the technician will assist with implementing treatment applications and harvests with offsite growers and extension collaborators. Other duties include planning, ordering and scheduling activities to fulfil timelines, assisting students with projects and maintaining vehicles and equipment.

This position is paid from grant funds and continuation of employment beyond the grant fund expiration date will depend upon additional funds availability, needs of the project and satisfactory job performance.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Farming Experience
• Research Experience
• Extension Experience
• Greenhouse Experience
• MS Office

Physical Demands

• Will work in harsh environments- hot, humid, wet and cold conditions.
• Lift 50 pounds
• Driving as needed to perform the duties of the job

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? No Does this position require a P-Card? No 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 Credit and P-Card policy
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.
Background Investigation Policy
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities

Duties/Responsibilities
Research and Data Entry

• Plan and execute small research trials including planting, crop maintenance and harvest
  • Coordinate plantings, treatment applications, and harvest with offsite growers
  
  
  
• Data collection
• Assist with Phd/Master student projects in the field and in growers field by helping collect data
• Data entry using Excel
• Write manuscripts and reports using statistical software

Percentage of time 70 Duties/Responsibilities
Lab and Greenhouse

• Postharvest laboratory work such as measuring titratable acidity using a titrator
• Maintain equipment in laboratory by performing calibrations
• Greenhouse work will require taking plant measurements, soil samples and repairing irrigation

Percentage of time 20 Duties/Responsibilities
Miscellaneous

• Perform safety trainings in PPE
• Other duties as assigned

Percentage of time 10

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact

Contact Details
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name Dr. Zilfina Rubio-Ames Recruitment Contact Email [e-mail] Recruitment Contact Phone

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter
3. List of References with Contact Information

Optional Documents