Research Technician I (Extended Temporary) (Maricopa, AZ)

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA; Maricopa (AZ); On-site; USD 34,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability programs

Paid vacation

Sick leave

Holidays

Tuition reduction

Retirement plans

Recreation programs

Job summary

University of Arizona in Maricopa, AZ is seeking a Research Technician I to support irrigation research through field and laboratory work, including soil/plant sampling and data collection. You will install soil moisture sensors and collect data, assist with outreach events, and maintain agricultural research plots.

The role is an Extended Temporary Employment (ETE) position with a hourly pay range and a 40-hour work week, located at the Maricopa Agricultural Center.

Qualifications

• Proficient in collecting soil, plant and water samples and measurements.
• Ability to use handheld devices for data collection and remote sensing.

Responsibilities

• Collect samples from farms and research sites for irrigation studies.

Skills

Soil and plant sampling

Agricultural knowledge

Troubleshooting

Teamwork and attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Augers

Reciprocating saws

Loppers

Neutron moisture meter

Job description

Research Technician I (Extended Temporary) (Maricopa, AZ)

Posting Number req27012

Department Biosystems Engineering-Ext

Department Website Link https://experimentstation.arizona.edu/maricopa-agricultural-center

Location Maricopa

Address 37860 W Smith Enke Rd., Maricopa, AZ 85138 USA

Position Highlights This position supports irrigation research through a combination of field and laboratory work, primarily focused on soil and plant sampling, sensor installation, and data collection. Key responsibilities include collecting samples using tools like augers, reciprocating saws, and loppers, under the guidance of the principal investigator or research associate at the University of Arizona Maricopa Agricultural Center and other Arizona farm sites. The position involves installing soil moisture sensors and collecting data using instruments like the neutron moisture meter. The neutron moisture meter weighs approximately 17 lb. by itself and approximately 37 lb. when transported in its case. Appropriate training will be provided as needed before employees use specialized equipment. Additional duties involve maintaining research fields, preparing and analyzing lab samples, collecting plant measurements, and assisting with outreach events to share findings with the farming community.

This is an Extended Temporary Employment (ETE) position.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

Duties & Responsibilities

Soil and Plant Sampling:

• Collect samples from the University of Arizona Maricopa AgriculturalCenter and local farms for research, including plant measurements such as height, cover and biomass.

Soil Moisture Monitoring:

• Collect soil moisture data using neutron meters and sensors to support irrigation research.

Field Maintenance:

• Perform tasks like weeding and general upkeep to maintain experimental crops.

Laboratory Analysis and Outreach Events:

• Follow a clear, step-by-step protocol provided by the principal investigator or research associate to prepare and test plant, soil, and water samples.
• Assist in organizing and conducting events to present research findings to the farming community.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Proficient skills in gathering soil, plant and water samples, conducting measurements, and utilizing handheld devices for remote sensing data collection.
• Solid agricultural knowledge.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and adhere to safety protocols.
• Ability to engage in teamwork, work with attention to detail and problem-solve.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in agricultural research.

FLSA Non-Exempt

Full Time/Part Time Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week 40

Job FTE 1.0

Work Calendar Fiscal

Job Category Research

Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay $16.50-$18.75

Compensation Type hourly rate

Grade 2

Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity. The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

Career Stream and Level OC1

Job Family Research & Lab

Job Function Research

Type of criminal background check required Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies 1

Target Hire Date 10/12/2026

Expected End Date 6/30/2027

Contact Information for Candidates Diaa Eldin Elshikha
[e-mail]

Open Date 9/9/2026

Open Until Filled Yes

Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter

Special Instructions to Applicant

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at [e-mail].