Research Specialist Senior

Job Description

The incumbent will be responsible for day-to-day operations of a weed management field research program in agronomic crops (mostly corn, soybean, and wheat) and pasture/forage that encompasses approximately 80 trials per year throughout Virginia. Duties will include but are not limited to plot layout, herbicide application, planting, data collection, and harvesting. Familiarity with and ability to operate associated equipment (tractor, planter, drill, pesticide sprayers, plot combine, etc.) is crucial, as well as ability to safely load/unload and transport equipment. Duties will also include leading the execution of scientific protocols and technical data collection. Data analysis and summarization will also be conducted. The incumbent will be responsible for maintaining equipment and facilities to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. To help accomplish these tasks, the incumbent will supervise undergraduate hourly assistants. Additionally, the incumbent will work closely with VT weed science faculty and graduate research assistants. For success, the incumbent must have excellent written and oral communication as well as time management and organizational skills. Flexibility, ability to prioritize, positive attitude and problem-solving skills are highly desired. Overnight travel is required during the field season. Planting and harvest seasons may include late nights and weekend work. This position requires physical strength and ability to work in hot, cold, and sometimes adverse weather conditions. The incumbent must possess or have the ability to obtain a pesticide applicator's license within six (6) months of employment.

Required Qualifications

B.S. degree in agronomy or related discipline; or, relevant experience and training; Operational knowledge of corn and soybean agronomic and cultural practices (additional crops preferred including pasture/forage); Demonstrated experience with farm equipment (listed above); Pesticide applicator's license or ability to obtain one within 6 months of hire; Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs; Valid Driver's license and clean driving record; Fluency in English; Experience using Microsoft Office software.

Preferred Qualifications

M.S. degree; Previous small plot research experience; Experience in statistical analysis, interpretation, and presentation of data; Previous supervisory experience; Experience managing a multilocation field testing network; Experience working with regulated (GMO) material and associated USDAAPHIS requirements; Experience with ARM software.

Pay Band

4

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

Commensurate with Experience

Review Date

08/02/2024

Additional Information

 

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

 

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

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