Agronomy Research Associate​/Technician *Huntley, MT

Agronomy Research Associate/Technician
* Huntley, MT*

For questions regarding this position, please contact:
Eeusha Nafi
eeusha.nafi

Montana State University’s Southern Agricultural Research Center (SARC) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join its field crops agronomy research program. This position provides an exciting opportunity to contribute to applied research and outreach that directly supports farmers and agribusinesses in south-central Montana’s dryland and irrigated production systems. The successful candidate will participate in research across a variety of agronomic crops, with emphasis on water and nutrient management, soil health, and crop performance.

Key responsibilities include fieldwork, data collection, operation and maintenance of farm and laboratory equipment, data management and basic analysis, and supervision of seasonal staff. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in agronomy or a related field, enjoy working outdoors, and be eager to collaborate with researchers, producers, and stakeholders to advance MSU’s mission of agricultural innovation and outreach.

The Southern Agricultural Research Center (SARC) in Huntley, Montana, is a key part of Montana State University’s Department of Research Centers, one of seven hubs advancing agricultural innovation. SARC’s scientists conduct impactful field and lab research, working closely with farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and MSU’s Cooperative Extension Service to develop practical crop and land management solutions for southcentral Montana and beyond.

• Support the field crops agronomy research program.
• Assist in the design, establishment, and maintenance of field trials.
• Apply treatments such as chemical and nutrient applications.
• Collect, analyze, and summarize field and laboratory data.
• Operate and maintain field and laboratory equipment.
• Supervise part-time and seasonal labor as needed.
• Collaborate effectively with a variety of stakeholders including researchers, producers, and agricultural partners.
• Work independently with minimal supervision.
• Travel within the state may be required occasionally.

• Master’s degree in agronomy or Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of professional experience.
• Field research experience in agronomic crops research, including seeding, spraying, harvesting, and preparing seed, fertilizer, and chemical samples for research trials.
• Experience in measuring, collecting, and recording of response variables and the associated data management procedures required for statistical analysis.
• Experience in supervising part-time and temporary help.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• Research experience relating to irrigation, nutrient management, and cultivar evaluation/plant breeding.
• Knowledge of the crops and production practices associated with south-central Montana.
• Experience with data management and interpretation tools such as R, Python, SAS, ARM or other statistical software packages.
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment.
• Experience in public engagement and/or data presentation during farmer meetings or field day demonstration.

• Work independently and as part of a team environment.
• Highly effective interpersonal skills including the ability to work cooperatively with research faculty, producers and co-workers.
• Be meticulous and precise in carrying out work assignments.
• Follow instructions, maintain effective attention to detail, meeting deadlines, and prioritizing competing demands.

• May require work outside of traditional business hours when research protocols dictate.
• Must be able to drive a pick-up truck while towing trailers or farm implements.
• Must possess a valid driver's license, an acceptable driving record, and meet all State of Montana requirements to operate State/University vehicles. (If successful candidate possesses a valid out-of-state driver’s license,…