Research Technician I - Iron Horse

University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 20,664 - 30,307; Full time

Job summary

University of Georgia in Athens is seeking a farm assistant to support day-to-day operations of a 600-acre plant science research farm, interacting with CAES faculty, staff, and students, and operating tractors and other equipment.

The role involves applying fertilizers and pesticides, land preparation, soil sampling, and general farm maintenance, with emphasis on safety, teamwork, and attention to detail.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Understanding of the scientific method as it applies to plant research.
• Familiarity with row-crop agriculture in the southeastern United States.
• Ability to operate large farm equipment in confined spaces.
• Teamwork and effective listening skills.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office suite.

Responsibilities

• Support research projects: field preparation, planting, pesticide and fertilizer application, irrigation, cultivation, and harvesting.
• Maintain farm facilities: upkeep around buildings, wildlife fences, mow grass, and care for landscaped areas.
• Maintain agricultural equipment: tractors, implements, harvesters, and other machinery.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Team player

Communication skills

Listening skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position Summary

Assists the farm manager with day-to-day operations of a 600‑acre plant science research farm. Responsibilities include interacting with CAES research faculty, staff, and students; operating agricultural equipment such as tractors, harvesters, and guidance systems; applying fertilizers and pesticides; conducting land preparation and soil sampling; and performing general farm maintenance and repair.

Responsibilities

• Support research projects: field preparation, planting, pesticide and fertilizer application, irrigation, cultivation, and harvesting.
• Maintain farm facilities: general upkeep around multiple buildings, maintain wildlife fences, mow grass, and care for landscaped areas.
• Maintain agricultural equipment: tractors, implements, harvesters, and other machinery.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred:

• Basic understanding of the scientific method as it applies to plant research.
• Familiarity with row‑crop agriculture in the southeastern United States (corn, soybeans, cotton).
• Ability to operate large farm equipment within confined spaces.
• Team player with effective listening and communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of precision agriculture equipment (guidance, rate control, mapping, etc.).
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite.

Physical Demands

• Work in adverse weather conditions.
• Lift up to 75 lbs.
• Driving as needed to perform job tasks.

Security & Driving Requirements

• Driving is a responsibility of this position: Yes.
• Position requires security access: Yes.

EEO 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]).