Research Technician (Lab and Field) - DEPP

North Carolina State University; North Carolina; On-site; USD 43,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC is seeking a Research Technician (Lab and Field) to support entomology and plant pathology projects. The role focuses on planning and executing research protocols, data collection, and coordinating staff involvement in laboratory and field activities.

The position requires operating lab and field equipment, data analysis support, and adherence to safety and regulatory guidelines, with a schedule from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Qualifications

• Experience operating laboratory and field research equipment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Attention to detail and safe work practices.
• Ability to work in lab and field environments under varying weather conditions.
• Ability to independently and safely operate University vehicles to travel between locations.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and maintain laboratory and field research trials according to protocols.
• Lead setup, maintenance, monitoring, and harvest of field plots for ongoing research.
• Calibrate, operate, and maintain backpack sprayers and other equipment.
• Prepare, mix, and apply pesticides and other materials in compliance with regulations.
• Record data on disease incidence, plant injury, and crop yield.

Skills

Laboratory equipment operation

Field research equipment operation

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPt

Detail-oriented

Safety practices

Vehicle operation (University vehicles

Job description

Posting Details

Job Posting Information

Posting Number: PG195167SP

Internal Recruitment: No

Working Title: Research Technician (Lab and Field) - DEPP

Anticipated Hiring Range: $42,971 - $45,000

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 6:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Job Location: Raleigh, NC

Department: Entomology and Plant Pathology

About The Department

As part of the Land Grant University, the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology is composed of over 40 faculty that direct a diverse portfolio of programs in teaching, research and extension components. Collectively, these strengths not only serve our clientele and our science, but also provide a rich environment for graduate education and training that can be tailored to the specific career interests of the student, irrespective of whether they prefer training in the basic sciences or are preparing for a career in extension. Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands‑on learning opportunities using the latest technologies.

Wolfpack Perks And Benefits

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

• Medical , Dental , and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership , and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Essential Job Duties

This position plays a key role in planning and executing research protocols, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining research materials, and contributing to scientific reports and project outcomes. The Research Technician will coordinate, conduct, and oversee research activities supporting laboratory and field-based experiments. The Research Technician will also lead research support activities by providing guidance and coordination to other staff involved in research projects.

Key responsibilities include

• Coordinate and maintain laboratory and field research trials, ensuring experiments are conducted accurately and according to established protocols.
• Lead the setup, maintenance, monitoring, and harvest of field research plots to support ongoing research initiatives.
• Calibrate, operate, and maintain backpack sprayers and other specialized research equipment.
• Prepare, mix, and apply pesticides, chemicals, and other research materials in compliance with all university, state, and federal regulations.
• Observe, collect, and accurately record research data, including disease incidence, severity, plant injury, defoliation, and crop yield.
• Maintain plants, microbial cultures, and other biological research materials to support laboratory projects.
• Plan and implement experimental methods, adapting research techniques and procedures as project needs evolve.
• Assist with data analysis, report preparation, and communicating research progress to principal investigators and project teams.
• Maintain inventories of laboratory equipment, field supplies, chemicals, and research materials to ensure uninterrupted research operations.
• Provide day-to-day guidance and coordination for research support staff, promoting safe and efficient laboratory and field operations.

Other Responsibilities

In addition to the core responsibilities of this role, there may be occasional opportunities to take on additional duties. This offers an opportunity to build on your skills, explore new areas, and gain a deeper understanding of the department’s operations.

Qualifications

Minimum Experience/Education

Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating laboratory and field research equipment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to safe work practices.
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and field environments under varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, humidity, rain, and pollen exposure.
• Ability to independently and safely operate University vehicles, including pickup trucks (e.g., F-150 and F-250), to travel between research locations.

Required License Or Certification

• Valid NC driver’s license or the ability to obtain one within 60 days of hire.

Valid NC Driver's License required

Yes

Commercial Driver's License Required?

No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date 08/10/2026

Earliest Close Date 08/17/2026

Position Details

Position Number 00109182

Position Type SHRA

Position Classification Band Title Research Technician

Position Classification Band Level Journey

Position Classification Salary Range $ 34,320 - $ 72,734

Salary Grade Equivalency MH08

Alternate Option If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00

Appointment 12 Month Recurring

Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Mandatory - Adverse Weather

Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Mandatory - Medical Emergencies

Time Limited Position No

Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable)

Department Id 111801 - Entomology and Plant Pathology

EEO

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919‑513‑0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.