Research Technician

Research Technician

Position Overview
The Research Technician – Horticulture provides technical, hands‑on support for research and educational programs involving fruit and vegetable production, variety trials, data collection, analysis, report preparation, and community engagement at North Carolina A&T State University. The role assists the Center for Environmental Farming Systems small farm unit and supports the university’s agricultural research initiatives.

• Perform data collection and process hand‑on procedures per study protocols.
• Compile, maintain, and prepare data for computer input.
• Operate and maintain farm equipment and tools (tractors, hand tools, zero‑turn mower, tiller, weed eater, etc.).
• Prepare and store laboratory samples according to study protocols.
• Meet regularly with the Principal Investigator, study monitors, and sponsors.
• Generate data presentations in narrative and graphical format at project meetings.
• Maintain records and perform farm benchmarking analysis using software such as Excel and FINPACK.
• Establish and maintain crops: seeding, planting, weeding, fertilizing, pest control, harvesting, and post‑harvest cleanup.
• Manage greenhouse and high‑tunnel operations.
• Assist with preparation of reports, peer‑reviewed articles, and educational materials.
• Communicate positively with researchers, staff, producer groups, community organizations, co‑workers, and other staff.
• Analyze results, report to investigators, and revise experimental procedures as needed.

• MS in Horticulture, Agribusiness, Agroecology, or related field (preferred).
• At least two years of hands‑on horticulture experience in fruit and vegetable production.
• Experience with high tunnel, greenhouse, and organic production systems.
• Knowledge of farm financial analysis and food safety.
• Data collection, entry, and report preparation experience.
• Ability to lift at least 50 lbs and work in inclement weather.
• Proficiency with basic computer software (Excel).
• Knowledge of soil sampling and variety trials (preferred).

8 am–5 pm, Monday–Friday; weekend work may be required occasionally. On‑site duty; remote/hybrid not available.

Recruitment range: $40,584 – $50,000 annually.

• Accrued vacation and sick leave for eligible employees
• Community service leave
• Aetna – state health benefits of North Carolina
• NCFlex – vision, dental, flexible spending account, life insurance, and more
• 12 paid holidays
• Teachers and State Employees Retirement System (TSERS)
• Optional supplemental plans: 401k, 403b, 457b, and 457
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Campus recreation center discount
• University bookstore discount
• and more

North Carolina A&T State University is an Equal Opportunity and affirmative action employer. No one who applies will be denied admission to or employment at North Carolina A&T State University on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disabling condition, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information, sexual orientation, or sexual identity.

Postings are open until 02/28/2026. Applicants must complete an electronic application; resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application. Veterans must attach a DD‑214; all final candidates are subject to criminal and sex offender background checks. North Carolina A&T State University participates in E‑Verify and verifies identity and employment eligibility as required by federal law.

Posting Number: SHRA
2918
Open Date: 11/17/2025
Close Date: 02/28/2026