Research Specialist​/Hybrid

About the Role

Agricultural Research Specialist (S) (Position Number: , Grade: NC12)

Agency:
Department of Agriculture, Consumer Services Division – Agriculture Consumer Service.

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services promotes and improves agriculture, agribusiness, and forests; protects consumers and businesses; and conserves farmland and natural resources for the prosperity of all North Carolinians.

• Manage assigned research projects related to agricultural crop production.
• Collaborate with project leaders.
• Provide supervision over a team of research technicians and seasonal staff.
• Serve as a maintenance mechanic, ensuring all equipment and infrastructure required to implement multiple complex research projects are properly maintained.
• Schedule, operate, and maintain the station’s equipment program.
• Perform basic vehicle and farm equipment repairs.
• Perform basic carpentry, painting, electrical, and plumbing tasks.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree preferably related to the assigned program area, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

• Experience in crop production, including planting, cultivating, and harvesting various crops.
• Experience in operating and repairing farm equipment.
• Experience in maintenance of irrigation systems.
• Experience with maintenance, repair, calibration and operation of equipment found on an agricultural research station.

Licenses & Certifications required or preferred:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – required if selected candidate hires with CDL.
• Public Pesticide Applicator License.
• Forklift Driver Certificate.
• Medical clearance to wear a half‑mask or full‑face respirator with cartridges.
• USDOT medical certificate prior to employment.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform long periods of repetitive reaching, stooping, standing, bending, and lifting of up to 50 lbs in a variety of work environments.

Other Considerations:

• All positions requiring a Commercial Driver’s License subject to pre‑employment drug testing and DMV physicals.
• Any employment offer may be less than the maximum of the salary range due to salary equity considerations.

Employees are eligible for comprehensive benefits, including leave options, professional development opportunities, insurance, and more. Learn more about State Employee Benefits.

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing a work environment free from unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, as well as religious beliefs and practices.

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