Research Supervisor 4 - Agriculture - Crookston, MN

About the Job

The research plot manager position is in part a management position and provides direct research support to the NWROC research portfolio. The management component includes serving as the NWROC contact point for research requests submitted by faculty and principal investigators (PI’s) seeking to use NWROC resources for their research projects. It also includes management of the research land and plot coordination. The position will direct the activities and supervise other research assistants assigned to the NWROC Research Support Group. The research support component includes supporting the operations, maintenance, set up and calibration of field equipment needed to conduct field research.

Major Responsibilities

• Research Plot Management and Coordination (50%)

  • Oversee the development and implementation of an effective land and cropping management plan for land used for research and rotational purposes.
  • Determine space allocation for specific research projects approved by the Research Support Group and project PI’s and oversee its implementation.
  • Liaison between research faculty, PIs, technicians, and students to plan, coordinate, and execute the research using NWROC research resources throughout the entire life cycle of the research project.
  • Manage and communicate effectively between research staff and projects teams to best understand and match NWROC resources and availability.
  • Ensure proper setup, management, and data collection through multiple modalities for research plots while maintaining operational efficiency.

• Supervision and Team Leadership (25%)

  • Independently direct the activities and supervise members of the Research Support Group including research staff and seasonal labor.
  • Communicate and manage research employees with a collaborative team approach.
  • Conduct the annual performance reviews for direct reports and ensure goal settings are in line with the mission of the NWROC.
  • Maintain and manage work hour records of summer employees and the Research Support Group through both manual and electronic databases for accurate recordkeeping and billing.
  • Manage and delegate tasks and authorities to other Research Support Group personnel as appropriate.
  • Maintain and promote safe work practices that ensure compliance with University and environmental policy and regulations within the cropping research operations.

• Direct research field support and data record keeping (20%)

  • Operate, maintain, and calibrate field plot equipment to accomplish the research objectives. This includes tillage, fertilization, planting, pesticide selection and application, plot management, and harvest.
  • Oversee and input proper cropping data into multiple data tracking programs and softwares to ensure compliance and quality of data.
  • Track progress of experiments, sample processing and data collection.
  • Manage and execute general equipment upkeep and maintenance.

• Outreach and Public Engagement (5%)

  • Participate in NWROC outreach efforts including field days, community events, and educational programming.
  • Work collaboratively with NWROC researchers and staff to organize public events that showcase the research portfolio and the NWROC.
  • Represent the NWROC in community partnerships, university collaborations and outreach initiatives.

Qualifications

• Required Qualifications:

  • BA/BS degree plus at least five years of relevant experience, or advanced degree plus at least three years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least nine years.
  • 5 years of experience in agricultural operations.
  • Evidence of effective communication skills.
  • Evidence of effectively working with a collaborative team atmosphere.
  • Must currently possess or be able to obtain within the probationary period a Non-commercial (A/C) pesticide application license.
  • Experience in the use of Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, and/or Access.
  • Experience in agronomic production practices for crops of NW Minnesota including small grains (wheat, barley, and oats), soybean, corn and sugarbeet.

• Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in agricultural research environments or university-based field operations.
  • Supervisory experience and demonstrated leadership.
  • Familiarity with 21st century precision agriculture technologies.

About the Department

The Northwest Research and Outreach Center (NWROC) in Crookston, Minnesota is one of 10 research and outreach centers in the University of Minnesota’s College of Food, Agricultural and Resource Sciences (CFANS). The NWROC, located adjacent to the University of Minnesota’s Crookston campus, includes approximately 1,800 acres of land and provides analytical, biological and field laboratories to U of M faculty, staff and students to conduct research and demonstrations to enhance the efficient use of agriculture and natural resources in northwest Minnesota. Program areas at NWROC include nutrient and water management, entomology, plant breeding, sugar beets, and small grains.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $31.00 - $33.00 per hour, depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional Documents

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.