Research Technician I

UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

Athens (GA)

On-site

USD 32,000 - 52,000

Part time

14 days+

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Job summary

The University of Georgia’s CAES-Horticulture unit seeks a Research Technician I to support field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments. The role will work closely with faculty and graduate students at the Durham Horticulture Farm and Organic Horticulture Laboratory.

This limited-term, 0.8 FTE position involves outdoor work, data handling, and routine lab tasks. Beneficial experience in horticulture, strong MS Office skills, and the ability to work across a diverse team are valued.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent with 2 years related experience.
Proficiency in MS Office.
Experience in horticulture or related field.

Responsibilities

Make sure plants in greenhouse and field are healthy and well maintained.
Carry out research experiments as assigned.
Provide research support for other team members.
Maintain up-to-date inventory of consumables and materials.
Order consumables and manage seed and sample inventory.
Ensure SOPs and program equipment are maintained and functioning.
Train and coordinate undergraduate hourly workers; hire as needed.

Skills

MS Office

Data management

Communication

Lab & greenhouse

Adapt to protocols

Team collaboration

Multitasking

Detail oriented

Horticulture experience

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Posting Details

Posting Number: S15837P

Working Title: Research Technician I

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 (https://www.uga.edu/). 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.

About the College/Unit/Department

Posting Type: External Retirement Plan TRS

Employment Type: Employee

Benefits Eligibility: Eligible Full/Part time Part Time

Work Schedule: Scheduled as required

Salary

Advertised Salary: Commensurate with Experience

Posting Date: 09/30/2026

Open until filled: Yes

Closing Date: Proposed

Starting Date: 11/01/2026

Location

Athens 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 (hrweb@uga.edu).

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning and 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 08.02.18.01.02.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Position Information

Classification Title: Lab Tech-Life Science II

FLSA: Non-Exempt

FTE: 0.80

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of related experience

Position Summary

This position supports Dr. Kate Cassity Duffey and Dr. Timothy Coolong. The position will work closely with faculty, postdocs and graduate students to assist in field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments in horticulture primarily at the Durham Horticulture Farm and the Organic Horticulture Laboratory.

This is a limited-term appointment expected to end 1 year after the start date. Renewal or extension beyond the initial term is anticipated but not guaranteed and will depend on project needs, the availability of funding, the job performance. The position may be renewed on an annual basis, contingent upon continued grant support.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies

Proficiency in MS Office
Ability to manage large data sets
Ability to communicate clearly through verbal and written communication
Proficient in molecular laboratory, farm and greenhouse operations
Ability to learn new laboratory and equipment protocols
Ability to work with diverse team members and create a positive work environment
Ability to multitask, be proactive, act independently and make decisions
Detail orientated
Experience in horticulture or a related area

Physical Demands

Work outdoors any time of year
Lift 50 lbs
Work in a laboratory for multiple hours a day.
This position involves out-of-town travel to research plots, including occasional overnight stay.
Weekend watering of plants in the greenhouse is assigned on a rotational basis.
Driving as needed to perform job tasks

Duties/Responsibilities

50% of time

Make sure plants in greenhouse and field are healthy and well maintained
Carry out research experiments as assigned
Provide research support for other team members

30% of time

Make sure that the inventory of consumables and other materials are up to date
Order consumables
Make sure that seed and sample inventory are up to date and maintained
Ensure SOPs are up to date
Ensure all program equipment is maintained and functioning

20% of time

Ensure all team members are trained and following program SOPs
Assign and coordinate tasks for undergraduate hourly workers
Hire and supervise new undergraduate hourly workers as needed

Security & Background Check

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. 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.

Applicant Documents

Required Documents