Research Technician

Position Summary

This position supports the operations and activities of the National Proving Grounds located at UGA Grand Farm. The role involves assisting with the day‑to‑day implementation of research and demonstration initiatives surrounding precision agriculture and smart weed control technologies, as well as contributing to overall farm functionality. This position is a grant funded appointment which is expected to end 5 years after the start date.

The position may be extended beyond the initial term, contingent upon continued funding.

• 30% Assists the team in all aspects of crop management/production – field prep, planting, pesticides, fertilizers, irrigation, cultivation, harvest, etc.
• 30% Maintains and manages precision and robotic technology tools throughout the season and coordinates with the team on application timing. This includes routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring equipment and tools are field ready.
• 20% Assists the team in performing critical agronomic measurements such as soil sampling, plant stand counts, and phenotyping to ensure the integrity of trial results. Beyond data entry, assists with the physical setup of plots, equipment maintenance, and post‑harvest sample processing, ensuring that all research protocols are followed with meticulous attention to detail.
• 15% Manages data workflows from collection to storage and potentially preliminary analysis. Includes the operating of precision technologies such as yield monitors, etc.
• 5% Performs other duties as assigned.

• Basic understanding of the scientific method as it applies to plant research.
• Familiarity with row‑crop and vegetable agriculture in the southeastern United States.
• Ability to operate large farm equipment within confined spaces.
• Willingness to work as part of an effective team and grow professionally, team player, effective listener, and communicator.
• Basic understanding of precision agriculture equipment (guidance, rate control, mapping, etc.) and its operation.
• Ability to rapidly learn and apply new concepts and have a hands‑on, problem‑solving mindset.
• Working knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite.

• Operate large farm equipment within confined spaces.
• Work outside in all weather conditions, weekends, nights, holidays, etc.
• Lift at least 75 pounds.
• Driving as needed to perform job duties.
• Hauling agricultural equipment.

Benefits Eligible.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR at hrweb.