Temporary Project Field Technician (Cornell Cooperative Extension); Fonda, New York

Temporary Project Field Technician

Temporary Laboratory and Research Technician

Nonexempt
Cornell Cooperative Extension
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS)

Fonda, New York

Who We Are

CALS is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second-largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy, and environmental resources; and social, physical, and economic well-being.

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) provides educational outreach functions for Cornell University’s role as New York State’s Land Grant University. The Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture is one of the premier regional agricultural Cornell Cooperative Extension programs in New York. The team provides educational programs and information to growers and agri-business professionals, arming them with the knowledge to profitably produce and market safe and healthful horticultural crops, contributing to the viability of farms and the economic wellbeing of New York State.

What You Will Do

As a Temporary Project Field Technician, you will provide technical support to team members in carrying out research activities that will ultimately enhance the profitability and sustainability of the horticulture industry in Eastern New York. You will scout research plots and forms for insects, diseases, weeds, and crop damage. Other duties include:

• Traveling to research plots in the region to collect data.

• Assisting with crop harvests, measuring, soil sampling, and recording yields.

• Assisting with crop planting and field maintenance.

• Preparing data tables, charts, and information for presentations using Microsoft Office.

• Assisting with logistical set-up for educational meetings and events.

• Transport samples to storage sites or research facilities for further analysis.

What We Need

We are looking for someone with an excellent work ethic who appreciates agriculture and can work in commercial fields that have been sprayed with pesticides. We need a talented individual with excellent communication skills who builds and maintains effective relationships with multiple stakeholders. Additionally, we need someone who has the following:

• High School Diploma and 6+ months of experience in an agriculture setting or the equivalent combination of education and experience.  

• Proven ability to work independently in collecting and summarizing data.

• Competence utilizing current computer technology, i.e., Windows - Excel/Word/Internet Explorer.

• Excellent communication skills (both oral and written). Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; able to prioritize multiple activities and tasks while meeting deadlines.

• Excellent customer service skills; must be able to work effectively with clientele.

• Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.

• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position, and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver’s license.

• Will be expected to work flexible hours, occasional evenings, and weekends as job functions require.

• Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are required.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

• Must exercise sound and ethical judgment when acting on behalf of the University.

If you possess these experiences and skills, this may be the role for you!  There are a few other qualifications that we would view as incredibly helpful in this role, including:

• Associate’s Degree with coursework agronomy, entomology, and /or horticulture. 

• Experience supporting research projects, including data collection and summary.

• Experience working in agriculture, vegetable, or small fruit production.

This is a temporary full-time (up to 39 hours / week standard work week) and up to a six-month appointment (May – October), located at Cornell Cooperative Extension Fulton and Montgomery County in Fonda, New York. 

Rewards and Benefits

We hope you appreciate great benefits. Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, well-being, and sustainability initiatives.

• Compensation is $20.30/hour.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences