Research Technician I

About the role

The Research Technician I supports field, laboratory, and greenhouse research activities focusing on soil health, water conservation, cropping systems, irrigation management, and agricultural sustainability in the Texas High Plains. This position involves assisting with various research tasks, laboratory operations, and logistical support.

Responsibilities

• Field Research Support
• Assist with the establishment, maintenance, and harvesting of agronomic field research trials.
• Collect soil, water, plant, and environmental samples according to established protocols.
• Support irrigation research activities, including the installation, maintenance, and monitoring of field instrumentation and sensors.
• Operate agricultural equipment, including ATVs, pickups, tractors, planters, sprayers, and other research equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of field activities, observations, and sample inventories.
• Afford travel to off-station research sites throughout Texas and neighboring states as needed, which requires operating an agency vehicle.
• Laboratory Operations and Sample Processing
• Prepare soil, water, and plant samples for laboratory analysis.
• Operate and maintain standard laboratory equipment.
• Assist with laboratory analyses related to soil fertility, soil health, water quality, and agronomic assessments.
• Maintain laboratory inventories, order supplies, and ensure proper organization of laboratory facilities.
• Adhere to laboratory safety protocols and university regulations.
• Data Collection and Management
• Enter, organize, verify, and maintain research data using spreadsheets, databases, and other software platforms.
• Afford assistance in the preparation of summaries, reports, and research documentation.
• Afford support for quality assurance and quality control procedures to ensure data integrity.
• Equipment Maintenance and Logistics
• Maintain research vehicles, field equipment, irrigation systems, and laboratory equipment.
• Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and coordinate repairs as needed.
• Afford assistance with research site preparation, material procurement, and inventory tracking.
• Other Duties
• Afford assistance with research activities, extension demonstrations, field days, producer meetings, and educational outreach events.
• Afford participation in required training and professional development activities.
• Afford performance of other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two years of related experience.
• Valid Texas driver's license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment.
• Ability to follow detailed scientific protocols.
• Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for the operation and maintenance of research equipment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Agricultural Systems Management, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or a related discipline.
• Experience operating agricultural field equipment.
• Experience with soil and water sampling procedures.
• Familiarity with GPS, GIS, remote sensing, environmental monitoring equipment, or agricultural sensors.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel, databases, and electronic data collection systems.
• Knowledge of irrigation systems and crop production in semi-arid environments.
• Experience working safely in agricultural research settings.