Experimental Smart Farm Junior Specialist

The Experimental Smart Farm Specialist will support the design, planning, and execution of applied agricultural research studies critical to the development and ongoing operation of the ESF. Working under the direction of the ESF Farm Coordinator, this position plays a key role in day-to-day farm operations and research implementation across both field and laboratory environments. This position is central to the development of UC Merced as an Agricultural Experiment Station and includes a strong emphasis on outreach and engagement with the broader community, helping to bridge cutting-edge agricultural research with education, public awareness, and community collaboration.
Responsibilities include safely operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting a variety of agricultural machinery and farm equipment, including but not limited to tractors, skid steers, front-end loaders, forklifts, and other mechanized implements. The incumbent is expected to demonstrate competency in tractor operation for field preparation, planting, cultivation, harvesting, material handling, and general farm maintenance activities, while adhering to all applicable safety protocols and university policies.
The position will assist in executing time-sensitive agricultural fieldwork activities such as planting, irrigation management, composting, harvesting, and site preparation. This includes conducting routine inspections, performing minor repairs, and ensuring operational readiness of farm equipment and infrastructure.
In addition, the incumbent will collect, manage, and analyze data generated through the implementation of smart farming technologies. Responsibilities may include monitoring sensor-based systems, supporting precision agriculture applications, and assisting with geospatial data analysis (GIS and/or remote sensing). Laboratory and computational duties will involve data systems administration, processing and quality control of field data, and maintaining organized research datasets.
The role also contributes to outreach and engagement efforts by supporting farm tours, assisting in the development of educational signage and materials, and collaborating with faculty, researchers, students, and community partners to facilitate events and programming at the ESF. This includes representing the farm in a professional manner to diverse audiences from the campus and broader Merced community.
Clear and effective communication of research activities and findings is required, including preparation of written reports, summaries, and oral presentations. The position requires close collaboration with faculty, research staff, and external partners.
Strict adherence to safety, compliance, and ethical research standards is mandatory at all times. The position may require working non-standard hours, including extended days, occasional weekends, and travel to support field operations and outreach activities.
This position requires possession of a valid driver’s license and a driving record that meets university standards. Experience safely operating tractors and other agricultural equipment in a research or production setting is highly desirable.

Required to hold valid driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program.