Turf Field Research Technician III

University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Lincoln, Northern (NE, KY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Comprehensive insurance options

Employee scholarship programs

Robust retirement plans with match

Job summary

University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Agronomy & Horticulture department invites applications for a full-time Turf Field Research Technician III in Lincoln, NE. The role supports turfgrass facilities, coordinates staff and student workers, and maintains field equipment and instruments.

A degree in turfgrass management or related field is required, with one year of research experience preferred. Eligibility includes a valid driver’s license and the ability to obtain a Pesticide Applicator’s License

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in turfgrass management, horticulture, agronomy, or related field required.
• One year of research experience in a turfgrass program or related field preferred.
• General equipment knowledge and experience using turfgrass equipment required.
• Math skills for calibrating spray equipment essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist with managing turfgrass research facilities in Lincoln and at ENREEC near Ithaca, NE.
• Provide day-to-day coordination and supervision of facilities, staff, and student workers.
• Calibrate, operate, and maintain field equipment and research instruments.

Skills

Equipment knowledge

Math/calibration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in turfgrass management, horticulture, agronomy, or related field

Tools

Pesticide Applicator License

Job description

Position Information

EEO Statement

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See Notice of Nondiscrimination

Working Title Turf Field Research Technician III

Department Agronomy & Horticulture-0827

Requisition Number S_260807

Posting Open Date 10/06/2026

Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 10/26/2026

Open Until Filled Yes

Description of Work

As a Turf Field Research Technician III, you will:

• Assist with managing turfgrass research facilities located both in Lincoln and near Ithaca, NE at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension & Education Center ( ENREEC ).
• Provide day-to-day coordination and supervision of facilities, staff, student workers, and field research.
• Calibrate, operate, and maintain field equipment, research instruments and other scientific equipment.

Must have or be able to obtain a Pesticide Applicator’s License within 6 months of employment. Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as an Ag Research Technician III.

About Us

At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, we’re proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer and certified as a Family Friendly Workplace. We are known for our welcoming, supportive environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn’t just a workplace; it’s a place to build your career and make a meaningful impact in Nebraska.

When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you’ll enjoy:

• Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
• Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
• Employee and dependent scholarship programs to pursue higher education
• Robust retirement plans with university match
• Bachelor’s degree in turfgrass management, horticulture, agronomy, or related field plus one year of research experience in a turfgrass research program or related field required; equivalent education/experience considered.
• General equipment knowledge as well as experience utilizing special turfgrass equipment required.
• A background in turfgrass related activities in regards to seedbed preparation and general turfgrass maintenance essential.
• Math skills that are needed in relationship to the calibration of spray equipment necessary.
• Must have valid driver’s license and ability to meet University driver eligibility requirements.
• Must have or be able to obtain a Pesticide Applicator’s License within 6 months of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

The following qualifications are preferred, but not required;

• Knowledge of turfgrass industry and management of turfgrass facilities.
• Experience with calibration of spray equipment.
• Troubleshooting abilities in regards to equipment maintenance.
• Ability to recognize potential problems before they occur.

Physical Required

Physical Required No

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances. No

Criminal History Background Check Required

Criminal History Background Check Required Yes

Job Type

Full-Time

Work Location

Lincoln, NE

Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?

Yes

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).