Agricultural Technician Supervisor

Job Description Summary

The Maryland Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES) in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) at the University of Maryland College Park was first established in 1888 and currently it fosters research at all levels (e.g., molecular, cellular, organismic, and ecosystem) related to sustainable food and fiber production with economic and environmental viability. Researchers within the six academic departments in AGNR and other Colleges use both campus-based research laboratories and four Research and Education Centers composed of 8 Facilities located across different land resource and physio graphic regions of Maryland to conduct state-of-the‑art research.

This position is located in Keedysville, MD. Assists and supports the Assistant Director of Operations in the daily operations of agricultural research at the Western Maryland Research and Education Center. Works with the Assistant Director of Operations to coordinate fieldwork in support of UMD faculty conducting research at the facility. Plans and carries out fieldwork; tilling, planting, fertilizing, spraying, harvesting for traditional, non‑traditional agricultural crops and research plots.

Operates farm equipment: farm tractors, tillage equipment, planters, sprayers, combines, and grain trucks requiring a class A commercial driver’s license. Carries out routine maintenance of equipment, grounds, and facilities. Will work independently and provide leadership to other employees when Assistant Director of Operations is absent from the facility.

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Horticulture, or related field.
• Experience conducting agricultural field research.
• Ability to use, maintain and repair farm equipment and specialized agricultural equipment.

• Heavy lifting.
• Extreme weather conditions.
• Hazardous materials (pesticides and fertilizers).
• Working environment may have allergens: dust, mold, grasses, etc.
• Must wear and work in personal protective equipment.

Ability to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), non‑commercial Class B or equivalent driver's license valid in the State of Maryland is required. Ability to obtain certification by the Maryland State Department of Agriculture as a pesticide applicator is required.

EDUCATION:

High School Diploma or GED

EXPERIENCE:

Six years progressively responsible experience in agriculture work, four years of which must have been in laboratory or field research and two years of which must have been in a lead or supervisory capacity.

OTHER:
Valid Maryland Noncommercial Class C or equivalent driver's license.

• Comprehensive knowledge of farming practices and equipment usage.
• Comprehensive knowledge of and skill in scientific methods and the use of related laboratory equipment.
• Comprehensive knowledge of and skill in the use of related farm equipment.
• Thorough knowledge of mathematics including algebra, area, volume, weights, measures, and proportions and ability to perform mathematical and algebraic calculations.
• Ability to use computers; to supervise and train agricultural technicians and support staff; to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; to lift and transport agricultural supplies, tools, and equipment, to climb, and to perform extensive standing and walking; to wear and work in personal protective equipment; to work in extreme weather conditions.
• OTHER:
  Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education…