Agriculture Research Specialist Sr

Grade Level 46 | Full-Time Staff Position | Lexington, KY

About the Role

Advance forage research that supports Kentucky agriculture. The University of Kentucky is seeking an Agriculture Research Specialist Sr to lead the university’s forage variety testing program and support research that helps producers make informed crop management decisions. This role combines field research, data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and program coordination to evaluate forage crop performance across Kentucky. Working closely with faculty, Extension personnel, industry partners, and agricultural producers, the successful candidate will play a key role in generating research-based recommendations that support the state’s agricultural industry.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage forage variety trials across multiple research locations
• Plan and oversee land preparation, planting, maintenance, harvesting, and data collection activities
• Analyze research data and prepare annual variety test reports and other publications
• Collaborate with seed companies to identify and evaluate forage varieties suited to Kentucky growing conditions
• Communicate trial results to industry partners, producers, Extension personnel, and other stakeholders
• Maintain and oversee research equipment, including harvesters, planters, sprayers, and related machinery
• Assist with field days, tours, workshops, presentations, and outreach activities
• Supervise temporary employees and graduate students while supporting collaborative research efforts

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a related field
• 3 years of related experience conducting agricultural field trials or applied research programs
• Knowledge of forage production, pasture management, and crop evaluation methods
• Strong data collection, analysis, and reporting skills
• Experience working with agricultural equipment and field operations
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects across locations and growing seasons
• Ability to perform essential duties satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation, including lifting 50lb seed and fertilizer bags

Benefits

• Meaningful impact: Support research that directly benefits agricultural producers across Kentucky
• Field-based work: Combine hands-on research, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement
• Professional growth: Develop expertise in forage systems, crop evaluation, and agricultural research
• Industry connections: Work closely with seed companies, Extension personnel, researchers, and producers
• Collaborative environment: Partner with faculty and research teams across the state
• UK’s exceptional benefits package

Pay

$53,061–87,526 per year

Schedule

Primarily days (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM)