Technical Aide

MSU - Michigan State University; Michigan; On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits at a leading research lab where you can delve into the world of tree fruit entomology! This role offers a unique blend of fieldwork and laboratory tasks, allowing you to contribute to important research on insect pests and pollinators impacting apple and cherry production. You'll be actively involved in scouting, setting up traps, and maintaining insect colonies while enjoying the beauty of Michigan's outdoors. If you're passionate about agriculture and eager to learn, this position promises valuable hands-on experience and the chance to make a difference in sustainable farming practices.

Qualifications

• Valid U.S. driver’s license is required.
• Ability to work outside in various weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fieldwork and laboratory tasks related to tree fruit research.
• Travel to field sites and perform pest scouting and data entry.

Skills

Attention to detail

Ability to work independently

Teamwork

Public communication

Tools

Field equipment

Job description

Position Summary (Basic Job Function)

This is a temporary or an on-call position. Provides technical support. Responsibilities may include computer programming or operations; research support; medical patient care; technical equipment maintenance, repair, fabrication or operation; or other technical support functions.

Unit Position Summary

The Wilson Tree Fruit Entomology Lab at Michigan State University conducts research on tree fruit insects to improve production and sustainability with apple, cherry, and other types of tree fruit. We seek a field and laboratory assistant based in NW Michigan for multiple research projects working in tree fruit involving insect pests and pollinators. This is an excellent chance to learn about insects and agriculture! The majority of this position will be fieldwork (70%) but will also include some laboratory work (30%). Daily tasks may include: travel to field sites in university vehicle (travel time is paid), natural enemy and pest scouting, installing traps, insect colony maintenance, setting up pesticide bioassays, data entry, collecting and measuring fruit yields. This job is based out of the Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Center near Suttons Bay, MI.

Desired Qualifications

Valid U.S. driver’s license
Ability to work outside for long periods of time in a variety of weather conditions
Ability to carry field equipment that may weigh 30 pounds or more
Attention to detail
Ability to speak with members of the public, such as fruit growers
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5