Research Technician II

Job Title: Research Technician II

Agency: Texas A&M Agrilife Research

Department: Beaumont

Location: Beaumont, Texas

Job Type: Staff

Proposed Minimum Salary: Commensurate

We are seeking a Research Technician II, under general supervision, who will provide technical support for breeding and research work to the professional staff. The technician will evaluate, select, and apply standard and advanced scientific techniques used in the field, greenhouse, and laboratory functions. Work performed by the technician will be evaluated based on the successful completion of tasks assigned.

• Conducts seed and land preparation and planting of research trials and breeding nurseries in the field and greenhouse, manages the crop growth throughout the season (e.g., irrigation, fertilization, and pesticide application), and harvests for yield or plant samples.
• Collects samples and measures data from research trials and breeding nurseries. Collects and summarizes crop management information of research trials and breeding nurseries.
• Conducts and records yield and quality (using grain analyzers) measurements. Compiles the data using Excel and Word.
• Assists in making crosses for the development of new breeding populations.
• Operates and maintains the functionality of field (e.g., tractors, planters, combine harvester, threshers, and backhoe) and lab technical equipment (e.g., rice dehullers, mills, and whiteness and moisture meters).
• Plants, harvests and takes data in off station yield trials.
• Trains and assigns tasks as necessary to student workers and co-workers under his supervision.
• Travels to Puerto Rico for harvesting plant materials.
• Assists staff members in conducting major field experiments and consults in developing procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Three years of related experience.
• Knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform responsibilities listed above, such as growing, managing, and harvesting rice and samples in field and greenhouse nurseries or experiments; data measurement and compilation; and operating and maintaining field and lab equipment.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

• Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent experience.

• Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance.
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays.
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M Agrilife.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.