Research Associate *Kalispell, MT

Position Details

Position Information

For questions regarding this position, please contact:

Marilyn Dalen

marilyn.dalen

Research Professional

Working Title Research Associate
* Kalispell, MT*

Montana State University’s Northwestern Agricultural Research Center (NWARC) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to support its field crop physiology research program. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to applied agricultural research that directly benefits farmers and agribusinesses in Northwest Montana. The successful candidate will be involved in hands-on research across a variety of agronomic crops, helping to advance studies related to irrigation, nutrient management, and crop performance.

The position combines fieldwork, data collection, and equipment operation with responsibilities in data management and seasonal staff supervision. Ideal candidates will have a strong foundation in agronomy or a related field, enjoy working outdoors, and be eager to collaborate with researchers, producers, and stakeholders to support MSU’s mission of agricultural innovation and outreach.

Position Number 4C0439 Department AES NWARC Division College of Agriculture/MAES Appointment Type Professional Contract Term Fiscal Year Semester If other, specify From date If other, specify End date FLSA Exempt Union Affiliation Exempt from Collective Bargaining FTE 1.0 Benefits Eligible Eligible Salary Commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications Contract Type LOA If other, please specify Recruitment Type Open

The Northwestern Agricultural Research Center (NWARC) is located near Kalispell, MT, and is an integral part of Montana State University. NWARC is one of the seven Research Centers comprising the Department of Research Centers. Scientists at NWARC conduct agricultural field and laboratory researches, interact with farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and MSU Cooperative Extension Service.

• Support the field crop physiology research program.
• Assist in the design, establishment, and maintenance of field research studies.
• Apply treatments such as irrigation and nutrient applications.
• Apply pesticides, insecticides, and herbicides of the field research studies.
• Collect, analyze, and summarize research 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.

• B.S. in agronomy, biology or a closely related discipline.
• Field research experience in agronomic crops research, such as maintaining and harvesting research plots.
• 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.

• M.S. in agronomy, crop science, biology, or closely related field.
• Research experience relating to irrigation, nutrient management, and cultivar evaluation/plant breeding.
• Knowledge of the crops and production practices associated with Northwest Montana.
• Experience with data management and interpretation tools such as SAS, ARM or other statistical software packages.
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment.
• Experience with pesticides, insecticides, and herbicide application.
• 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,…