Temporary Laboratory and Research Technician - L. Sosnoskie Team; Horticulture Section); Geneva

Temporary Laboratory and Research Technician

Temporary full‑time (39 hours per week) position in the Section of Horticulture at Cornell Agri Tech, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), Geneva, New York. Fixed term:
May 1, 2026 – September 1, 2026.

• Assist with the establishment, maintenance, and evaluation of field research plots.
• Conduct visual weed control ratings and crop injury assessments using standardized scales.
• Assist with the setup, calibration, and deployment of field‑based robotic systems.
• Enter and organize field data in spreadsheets or research databases.
• Conduct preliminary data checks for accuracy and completeness.
• Prepare field supplies and equipment prior to research activities.
• Assist with harvest data collection and sample processing.
• Follow all institutional, pesticide safety, and field research safety protocols.

• High School Diploma and completed coursework in agronomy, plant science, horticulture, agricultural engineering, environmental science, biology, or a related field, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40–50 pounds (field equipment, sensors, etc.).
• Basic understanding of plant identification (crops and weeds).
• Careful and accurate data collection skills.
• Basic computer proficiency (Excel, Google Sheets, or similar data‑entry platforms).
• Willingness to learn operation of field‑based robotic or sensor systems.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to follow detailed research protocols.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Good organizational and time‑management skills.
• Must be able to meet the travel requirements, have reliable transportation, a valid unrestricted New York State driver’s license, and be cleared to drive for university business.

• Associate’s Degree in plant biology, botany, weed science, crop science, plant physiology, agricultural systems, or precision agriculture.
• Experience with:
  • Field research or agricultural labor
  • Herbicide trials or weed management research
  • Small plot equipment
  • Robotics, sensors, drones, or autonomous systems
  • GPS or GIS software, multispectral or NDVI data collection
  • Basic statistical software (R, SAS, or similar)
  • Programming experience (Python, Arduino, ROS, etc.)
• Familiarity with weed identification at seedling and mature stages.
• Data management and quality control procedures.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort with troubleshooting equipment.

Hourly rate: $22.00 per hour. The position offers benefits typical of Cornell University employees, including health, well‑being, and sustainability initiatives. No relocation assistance and no visa sponsorship are provided.

Submit a resume/CV and a cover letter. Attach the documents through Cornell’s online application system. For detailed instructions, see Cornell’s “How We Hire” guide on the HR website.

Cornell welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship, color, sex, pregnancy, age, creed, religion, disability, criminal record, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and identity, genetic information, domestic‑violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Cornell embraces diversity and encourages individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.

Applicants must read the required Notice to Applicants statement. The notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell.