Research Technician (Lab and Field) - DEPP

NC State University; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 43,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

Flexible Spending Account

Retirement Programs

Disability Plans

Life Insurance

Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs

12 Holidays Each Year

Tuition and Academic Assistance

And so much more!

Job summary

NC State University in Raleigh, NC seeks a Research Technician (Lab and Field) to support laboratory and field experiments within the Entomology and Plant Pathology department. The role involves planning, data collection, and coordinating research activities under supervision, with emphasis on accurate recording and adherence to protocols.

Strong attention to detail, experience with lab/field equipment, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are expected; valid NC driver’s license and ability to

Qualifications

• Experience operating laboratory and field research equipment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and maintain laboratory and field research trials per protocols.
• Lead setup, maintenance, monitoring, and harvest of field plots.
• Calibrate and operate backpack sprayers and other equipment.
• Prepare and apply pesticides and chemicals per regulations.
• Record research data including disease incidence, crop yield, and plant injury.
• Maintain plants and microbial cultures to support projects.
• Plan and implement experimental methods; adapt as needed.
• Assist with data analysis and reporting to investigators.
• Maintain inventories of equipment and supplies.
• Provide guidance and coordination for research support staff.

Skills

Lab and field research

Data collection and analysis

Attention to detail

Microsoft Office proficiency

Safe work practices

Vehicle operation (driving)

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Field equipment

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Job description

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. What we offer:

• 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

• 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.

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

Job Open Date: 08/10/2026

Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.): 08/17/2026

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

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 and experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

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.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at [phone] or [e-mail].

Final candidates are subject to criminal and 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.