Precision Agriculture Testbed Operations Specialist Job Bozeman area,Montana USA,Trades / Skilled Labor

Precision Agriculture Testbed Operations Specialist

This position is not eligible for new sponsorship.

Brief

Position Overview

Precision Agriculture Testbed Operations Specialist supports MSU’s role in the Headwaters Tech Hub effort by managing on‑farm technology systems at Lutz Farm and Red Bluff Ranch. This hands‑on role focuses on implementing, maintaining, and operating advanced precision agriculture tools while supporting research, education, and industry collaboration. The position works closely with students, faculty, and partners to enable real‑world technology validation.

Duties and Responsibilities

Lead installation and maintenance of precision agriculture systems (sensors, UAVs, GPS, IoT networks)
Operate and troubleshoot field‑based data systems and infrastructure
Support execution of testing protocols, including data collection and sensor deployment
Coordinate testbed access and activities for research and industry collaborators
Provide technical support for testbed student activities, training, and field‑based instruction
Assist with demonstrations, field days, workshops, and training events
Support implementation of applied technologies such as variable‑rate input systems and livestock monitoring tools
Pilot UAS (drones) in support of field monitoring, herbicide application, or granular product applications
Operate and support agricultural equipment in field production environments (tractors, sprayers, drills, spreaders, sampling equipment)
Install, configure, calibrate, and troubleshoot integrated precision agriculture systems (RTK / GNSS, auto‑steer, ISOBUS, controllers, displays)
Manage, process, and organize agricultural datasets, including GIS‑based mapping and spatial analysis
Develop and document technical procedures, workflows, and training materials

Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills

Experience operating agricultural equipment in field environments
Experience working with agricultural sensors and data systems
Experience collecting, managing, or troubleshooting technical or environmental data
Ability to work independently in field environments
Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Part 107 UAS operator license
Ability to obtain and maintain a state of Montana herbicide applicator license and appropriate endorsements for aerial application via UAS
Experience collecting, managing, or processing field‑based agricultural data

Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills

Experience with precision agriculture technologies (UASs, RTK GPS, IoT sensors, vehicle guidance)
Experience supporting testing, validation, or demonstration projects
Familiarity with agricultural data systems or software tools
Experience working with students or educational programs
Experience with ISOBUS systems, rate controllers, and implement integration
Experience with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS Pro) and spatial data workflows
Experience with machine telemetry, connected equipment, and cloud data platforms
Experience with UAV or remote sensing systems for field data collection
Experience with agricultural research farms, field trials, or technology validation
Experience with major precision ag platforms (e.g., John Deere, Raven, Emlid)

The Successful Candidate Will

Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills
Ability to work in outdoor, field‑based environments
Effective communication with faculty, students, and industry partners
Ability to manage multiple tasks and coordinate activities
Attention to detail in data collection and system operation
Ability to diagnose and solve field technology issues independently during active operations
Ability to translate field operation needs into technical equipment, software, and data requirements
Ability to document technical workflows and communicate solutions to diverse users
Ability to coordinate multiple technologies, timelines, and partners simultaneously

Position

Special Requirements /Additional Information

Valid driver’s license and ability to operate trucks, trailers, and agricultural equipment
Requires regular fieldwork in varying weather conditions
May require travel between MSU farms and research sites
Occasional evening or weekend…