Research Associate – Agronomy

This position provides technical support to the Agronomy Research Project at the SARC in Huntley, MT.

Duties and Responsibilities

The individual in this position will be responsible for the implementation, maintenance and interpretation of applied agronomic field research conducted on the Southern Ag Research Center under the direction of the Superintendent, who also serves as the Agronomy Research Project Leader. Primary research areas include regional and statewide germplasm evaluations directed towards variety development, alternative crop species evaluations and improved crop management systems. Research duties include assistance in the planning, design and implementation of field research projects, application of treatments to research plots, recording field data, collecting research samples using scientifically prescribed methods; analysis of experiment data, summarization and interpretation of research results.

Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills

1. M.S. in Agronomy or closely related field.

2. Demonstrated ability to plan, design and implement field research, and interpret research results using accepted scientific methodology.

3. Experience in collecting, recording and analysis of field data.

Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills

1. Academic and/or production experience with dryland and irrigated crops and related cropping systems common to the intermountain regions of the western United States.

2. Experience with surface (ditch and/or gated pipe) irrigation systems.

3. Experience with Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, and Statistical Analysis Systems ( SAS ) software.

4. Grant writing experience.

The Successful Candidate Will

The successful candidate will help maintain plot and related scientific equipment and supplies, help to supervise part-time and/or seasonal employees hired for conducting general farm operations and research activities, and may provide periodic support for other research projects at the center and foundation seed production. The person will also have the ability to communicate research findings and data well to other faculty and staff and the general Ag community, both verbally and in writing.

Position Special Requirements/Additional Information

1. Must possess currently or be eligible to obtain a valid State of Montana Driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record (less than 12 points) as both in-and-out-of-state travel will be required.

2. Must possess a State of Montana Certified Government Pesticide Applicator’s License for the control of agricultural pests, or be eligible and able to obtain one within 6-months of date of hire.

3. Occasional work in the evening or on weekends may be required.

Physical Demands

1. Must be able to enter, exit and operate numerous types of farm equipment; requires working around loud machinery, and occasionally working at elevated positions (grain bins, roofs).

2. Must be able to lift and maneuver 60 pounds; requires repetitive movements and standing for extensive periods of time.

3. Must be able to work with and around dust,pollen-bearing plants and pesticides; requires the ability to wear a respirator or related safety equipment.

4. Must be able to work in extreme weather conditions.

This position has supervisory duties?

Yes