Farm and Research Assistant

This position is not eligible for new sponsorship.

Position Information

Announcement Number: STAFF - VA - 26257

Position Number: 4N2387

Department: AES EARC

Division:
College of Agriculture/MAES

Appointment Type:
Classified Fixed Term

Contract Term:
Fiscal Year

FLSA:
Non-Exempt

Union Affiliation: FOCUS-MFPE

FTE: 1.0

Salary:
Salary commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications.

Recruitment Type:
Open

Number of Vacancies: 1

Position End Date: (if temporary) – not specified

This Farm and Research Field Technician supports both farm operations and research activities ponsibilities include assisting with crop management, equipment maintenance, and facility upkeep during the growing season, as well as helping research staff process soil and plant samples in the off-season. This role provides hands‑on experience in agriculture and agricultural research.

• Assist the Farm Operations Manager with crop production tasks during the growing season, including:
  • Tillage and planting
  • Applying fertilizers and herbicides
  • Mowing and maintaining equipment.
• Support the Farm Operations Manager and Superintendent in maintaining the EARC facility and grounds.
• Assist research scientists with collecting, processing, and preparing soil and plant samples during the fall and winter seasons.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience operating farm machinery and performing basic farm maintenance tasks.
• Ability to lift heavy objects, work outdoors in various weather conditions, and follow safety protocols.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Experience assisting with agricultural research or collecting soil and plant samples.
• Knowledge of fertilizers, herbicides, and general crop management practices.

• Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to complete tasks efficiently and responsibly.
• Ability to identify issues and find practical solutions in the field in collaboration with the Farm Operations Manager.

This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

This position has supervisory duties? No

Applications will be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. Screening of applications will begin on January 28, 2026.

This position is not eligible for new sponsorship.

Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.

In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.

• Resume
• Cover Letter

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